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Effect of short-term levamisole therapy on delayed hypersensitivity
Cancer
|January 15, 1980
Summary
Short-term Levamisole treatment did not significantly enhance delayed hypersensitivity in cancer patients unresponsive to dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). Greater disease extent correlated with lower DNCB reactivity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Delayed hypersensitivity is a key immune response.
- Cancer can impair cell-mediated immunity.
- Dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) is used to assess delayed hypersensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Levamisole's effect on delayed hypersensitivity in cancer patients.
- To assess if Levamisole improves DNCB reactivity in non-responsive patients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized trial involving 100 cancer patients unresponsive to DNCB.
- 50 patients received Levamisole (150 mg daily x 3) during DNCB challenge.
- 50 patients received DNCB challenge without Levamisole.
Main Results:
- The conversion rate to DNCB-positive was 20% in the Levamisole group versus 12% in controls.
- This difference was not statistically significant.
- A significant inverse relationship was observed between disease extent and DNCB reactivity.
Conclusions:
- Levamisole, administered as described, did not substantially increase delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity.
- Disease burden is a significant factor influencing DNCB responsiveness in cancer patients.