[Treatment of malignant mesothelioma using intrapleural gamma interferon]

8 consecutive patients with malignant diffuse pleural mesothelioma at stage IA were treated with recombinant gamma Interferon (RU. 42369 Roussel Uclaf) by the intrapleural route. Diagnosis was achieved by thoracoscopy. A solution of gamma Interferon (40 x 10(6) units) was infused twice a week for 6 hours over a period of 2 months via a catheter inserted in the pleural cavity. The principal side effect consisted of a "Flue syndrome" treated by Paracetamol. Evaluation of responses was based on a CT scan performed 2 weeks after the end of treatment; and on a repeat thoracoscopy with histopathological verification. In 6 patients we observed a complete histopathological response, lasting for 2 months in 1 patient. 1 patient was operated on after failure of Interferon treatment, 1 patient died 1 month after the end of the treatment; the death has not apparent connexion with the treatment.