Phase II trial of lymphoblastoid interferon in metastatic malignant melanoma

Thirty-three patients with metastatic malignant melanoma, some of whom had received previous chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy, were entered in a trial of three different doses and schedules of administration of lymphoblastoid alpha interferon. The overall response rate was 9%; some patients had long-lasting response and two achieved complete response. There was no clear advantage to any one regimen. Dose-related flu-like syndrome, granulocytopenia, hepatocellular enzyme elevation, and anemia were observed as the most common toxic effects. Interferon deserves further study in the treatment of malignant melanoma.