[VAD chemotherapy of multiple myeloma]

Twelve patients with resistant or recurrent multiple myeloma were treated with VAD regimen (vincristine, adriamycin, dexamethasone), first reported by Barlogie B et al 1984. Of 11 evaluable patients, 7 responded (partial response [PR] 3, minor response [MR] 4), and the overall response rate was 63.7%. The median interval to achieve remission was 27 days, and the median duration of remission was 125 days. One course seemed sufficient for the assessment of effectiveness of the VAD chemotherapy, because in all responders, over 50% reduction of monoclonal protein was obtained in the first course of chemotherapy. We also administered verapamil or trifluoperazine in addition to VAD in two patients who had acquired resistance to VAD. Both had MR. Side effects included infections, gastro-intestinal bleeding, congestive heart failure or severe malaise. In conclusion, the VAD chemotherapy is effective but the duration of remission is short and side effects cannot be disregarded. Perspective of VAD and improvement of the management of refractory multiple myeloma is discussed.