Imatinib Mesylate and Gray Hair

Abstract

To the Editor: The impressive effects of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor STI571 (imatinib mesylate) in chronic myeloid leukemia were confirmed in the large trial by Kantarjian et al. (Feb. 28 issue). 1 We would like to report a new side effect of the drug. Between December 1999 and June 2001, we treated 133 patients with chronic myeloid leukemia with imatinib mesylate according to Novartis Pharma protocols. 1 , 2 Among these 133 patients, 5 men and 4 women (median age, 63.4 years; range, 53 to 75) with gray hair before treatment had progressive repigmentation of the hair (on the head in 8 patients .?.?.