Chemotherapy for advanced Hodgkin's disease: conclusions from the Southeastern Cancer Study Group

The Southeastern Cancer Study Group has explored a variety of approaches to the management of advanced Hodgkin's disease. These have largely involved the use of nitrosoureas, especially BCNU (carmustine), alone or in combination with other agents. Initial phase II trials of BCNU as a single agent in patients refractory to mechlorethamine demonstrated considerable antitumor activity. Exploratory experiments with BCNU in combination with alkylating agents, vinca alkaloids, and corticosteroids resulted in the development of the combination BVCPP (BCNU, vinblastine, cyclophosphamide, procarbazine, and prednisone). BVCPP, given only once monthly, produces at least a 65% complete response rate with minimal to moderate toxicity, making it an effective alternative to other regimens such as MOPP. Alternating BVCPP with a non-cross-resistant combination (doxorubicin, DTIc [dacarbazine], and bleomycin) offered no advantage in response rate or survival. Continued research with new agents and/or combined modality approaches is necessary in view of continued primary and secondary treatment failure with all regimens used for the management of advanced Hodgkin's disease.