Effect of human leukocyte interferon on malignant brain tumors

The antitumor effect of human leukocyte interferon was investigated on ten patients with malignant brain tumor. In eight cases of primary tumor, IFN alone was administered when their recurrent sign was evident. A dose of 3 X 10(6) IU or 1 X 10(6) IU of IFN was injected intramuscularly two or three times a week in high-dose group, while a dose of 5 X 10(4) IU once a week in low-dose group. No remarkable side effects including bone marrow depression were noted. Natural killer activity was enhanced and immunologic skin reaction manifested. Partial remission of more than 50% decrease of tumor volume calculated on CT scan was seen in two cases in the low-dose group for about 3-6 months. Complete remission could not be obtained by IFN alone. Our pilot study has shown that IFN alone will not be effective against progressive malignant brain tumors by general administration. Further investigation should be carried out to improve the use of IFN therapy in malignant brain tumor.