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Evaluating unconventional therapies CMAJ 1998;159:759 See response from: E. Kaegi, M. Schneider We agree with the article "Unconventional therapies for cancer: 3. Iscador" (CMAJ 1998;158[9]:1157-9 [full text]) that the evidence for a clinical benefit of Iscador is inconclusive. However, we would like to correct the description of its constituents. Viscotoxins are not lectins and have considerably lower molecular weight than mistletoe lectins.1 Viscotoxins can directly damage the cell membrane2 and have cytostatic effects. Furthermore, recent research on mistletoe lectins3 has indicated promise for further clinical studies and has enabled standardized application of mistletoe extracts.
Tibor Hajto, MD
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