Evaluation of the Epidermal Langerhans Cell Population in AIDS / ARC Patients by the Topical Application of a Potent Contact Allergen (1-Chloro-2,4-Dinitro-Chlorobenzene) (DNCB)

To evaluate the effect of application of Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) on the number, morphology, and antigen expression of epidermal Langerhans cells in AIDS and AIDS related complex (ARC) patients.

Inclusion Criteria

Patients must have the following:

• Stage III or IV HIV infection.
• Provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria

Co-existing Condition:

Patients with the following conditions or symptoms are excluded:

• Kaposi's sarcoma lesions in the proposed treatment sites.
• Liable to require radiation or chemotherapy during the course of the study.
• Not likely to survive the length of the study.
• Obvious ultra-violet-irradiated skin damage in the treatment areas and anyone with recent UV exposure or likely to have such exposure (e.g.:
• holiday tans obtained in Hawaii, members of UV box tanning salons, etc.) Allergy to lidocaine.

Concurrent Medication:

Excluded:

• Other Immunomodulators.

Concurrent Treatment:

Excluded:

• Radiation.

Patients with the following are excluded:

• Kaposi's sarcoma lesions in the proposed treatment sites.
• Liable to require radiation or chemotherapy during the course of the study.
• Not likely to survive the length of the study.
• Obvious ultra-violet-irradiated skin damage in the treatment areas.
• Allergy to lidocaine.

Prior Medication:

Excluded:

• Prior DNCB therapy.