Human leukocyte interferon in the treatment of selected cancer patients

The effect of human leukocyte gamma interferon in the treatment of selected postoperative and nonsurgical cancer patients was investigated. Administration of this drug led to significant improvement in all patients who were studied. Remarkably, some experienced total recovery without evidence of metastasis and to date remain asymptomatic with no signs of muscle atrophy, liver necrosis, or glomerulonephritis. Although treatment with gamma interferon did result in a mild elevation of body temperature and malaise for 24 hours, patients also demonstrated some immunity to viral infection during treatment.