[Bleomycin]

Bleomycin, with was discovered by H. Umezawa et al., is being used throughout the world of its clinically proved effect on tumors such as squamous epithelical carcinoma, malignant lymphoma etc. Elucidation on the mechanism of its effect has advanced to a molecular level, and it is believed that the agent cuts a DNA chain via a ferrum chelate [active type of BLM-Fe(III) chelate]. The heterologous dosage forms (oleosu, ointment) were developed for exerting a long-lasting at local tumor sites. And moreover, the assessment of derivatives to obtain increase the antitumor effect and reduce side effects provided clues leading to the development of Peplomycin. The essential clinical applications of this agent involve its combined with other carcinostatics and combination therapy with surgery and radiation. Many regimens have been studied in order to increase its anti-tumor effect in each field of application. There is the characteristic feature of side effects on bleomycin, which has no myelotoxicity but has fibroid lung as dose limiting toxicity. So it is necessary for the agent to be used carefully in order to reduce this pulmonary toxicity. Selection of cases, method of administration, method of early diagnosis and treatment of side effects should also be taken into consideration.