Phase I-II trial of mitoxantrone in acute leukemia

Mitoxantrone was evaluated in a multi-institution trial to define the effective dose for treating acute leukemia, to evaluate its toxicity, and to assess the induction rates for the different types of acute leukemia. Fifty-seven patients have been treated. Of the 24 patients receiving mitoxantrone (10 mg/m2/day X 5), one of nine with acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) in relapse, one of five with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in relapse, and one of seven with blastic chronic myelogenous leukemia achieved remission. At a dose of 12 mg/m2/day X 5, seven of 16 patients with ANLL in relapse, none of six with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in relapse, and one of five with blastic chronic myelogenous leukemia achieved remission. At both dose levels, there was no response in patients who had failed to achieve a prior remission. Toxic effects included nausea/vomiting, stomatitis, and hepatic dysfunction. Nine of the 57 patients treated experienced cardiac events but cardiac toxicity seemed clinically significant in only three. We conclude that mitoxantrone, at a dose of 12 mg/m2/day X 5, is effective therapy for ANLL. Trials combining mitoxantrone with other agents are needed.