[Monoclonal antibodies in the therapy of non-resectable pancreatic cancers. Initial experiences]

In this study 34 patients with pancreatic cancer were treated postoperatively with monoclonal antibodies (MABs). The antibody BW 494/32 is directed against a membrane antigen of differentiated adenocarcinomas of the pancreas and mediates cellular cytotoxicity. The patients suffered from non resectable tumors, mostly with lymph-node or liver metastases. The patients received repeated doses of MABs over a time period from 5 to 14 days. The highest single dose was 100 mg, the highest cumulative dose 490 mg. At the moment 16 out of 34 patients are eligible for evaluation of tumor response. There was no complete or partial remission (reduction more than 50% of tumor volume). However, two patients responded with minor tumor regression up to 32 weeks documented by reduction of liver metastases and primary tumor in cat scan. Five additional patients presented with a long period of stable disease after immunotherapy (up to 40 weeks). 9 patients had progressive tumor disease in spite of MAB-treatment. Two to three weeks after antibody infusion most patients produce human anti-murine-antibodies, so that severe allergic reactions may occur, if the application is repeated.