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[Maturation therapy for advanced neuroblastoma-therapeutic effects and problems]
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer & Chemotherapy
|May 1, 1982
Summary
Maturation therapy using papaverine infusion for advanced neuroblastoma showed limited effectiveness and severe side effects, including somnolence and extrapyramidal symptoms. The treatment approach requires careful patient selection and reconsideration due to high toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Neuroblastoma is a common childhood cancer.
- Advanced neuroblastoma presents significant treatment challenges.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of maturation therapy for advanced neuroblastoma.
- To assess the role of papaverine infusion, with or without high-dose cyclophosphamide, in treating pediatric neuroblastoma.
Summary:
- Seven children with advanced neuroblastoma received papaverine infusion (maturation therapy) for 2 days, with or without high-dose cyclophosphamide.
- Papaverine infusion alone showed minimal efficacy (1/1 patient responded).
- Combined therapy with papaverine and cyclophosphamide yielded limited response rates (3/6 patients responded), with significant toxicity including somnolence and extrapyramidal symptoms in all patients.
Impact:
- Papaverine infusion demonstrated a high toxicity profile with limited therapeutic benefit in this cohort.
- The findings suggest that maturation therapy with papaverine is not a viable treatment option for advanced neuroblastoma.
- Careful patient selection and reevaluation of treatment strategies are crucial for managing advanced neuroblastoma.