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Effect of interferon alpha-2b in advanced multiple myeloma
Journal of Internal Medicine
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Recombinant human interferon (rh-IFN) alpha-2b showed some antitumour effects in advanced multiple myeloma patients. This therapy may be more effective in patients with a lower tumor cell burden.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a cancer of plasma cells.
- Advanced MM often presents resistance to conventional cytostatic therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antitumour effect of recombinant human interferon (rh-IFN) alpha-2b in patients with advanced multiple myeloma (MM).
Main Methods:
- 22 patients with advanced MM received subcutaneous rh-IFN alpha-2b.
- Doses escalated from 2 x 10(6) IU m-2 up to 15 x 10(6) IU m-2, administered three times weekly.
- Patients included those refractory to chemotherapy and those in relapse.
Main Results:
- Two patients (one refractory, one relapsing) achieved a partial response (≥50% reduction in serum M-component).
- Three additional patients experienced minor, short-lived responses.
- All patients reported grade 1-2 subjective side-effects; three required platelet transfusions due to thrombocytopenia.
Conclusions:
- Recombinant human interferon (rh-IFN) alpha-2b demonstrates a measurable antitumour effect in a fraction of advanced multiple myeloma patients.
- The efficacy of rh-IFN alpha-2b may be enhanced in patients with a lower tumor cell burden, potentially as a standalone or combination therapy.