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Effect of interferon-alpha 2a on malignant mesothelioma
T I Christmas1, L S Manning, M J Garlepp
1Department of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Nedlands.
Journal of Interferon Research
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Recombinant human interferon-alpha 2a (IFN-alpha 2a) showed activity in malignant mesothelioma (MM) patients. This therapy was well-tolerated, with a 12% response rate and 52% stable disease in previously untreated MM.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
Background:
- Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a challenging cancer resistant to conventional treatments.
- Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects against MM cell lines in vitro.
- Recombinant human IFN-alpha 2a (Roferon-A) was investigated for its therapeutic potential in MM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of IFN-alpha 2a in previously untreated patients with malignant mesothelioma.
- To determine tumor response rates and tolerability of IFN-alpha 2a therapy.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted on 25 treatment-naive MM patients (24 male, 1 female, mean age 59).
- Patients received IFN-alpha 2a for 3 months, with doses escalating from 3 to 18 million IU daily.
- Tumor response was assessed using thoracic CT scans at 6 and 12 weeks.
Main Results:
- Of 25 patients, 20 completed 3 months of treatment; 5 were withdrawn due to disease progression.
- One complete response (CR) and 2 partial responses (PR) were observed, yielding a 12% overall response rate.
- Thirteen patients (52%) had stable disease, with one showing a delayed PR, and 9 (36%) experienced progressive disease.
- Side effects were dose-related, necessitating dose reductions in 12 patients for grade 2 toxicity.
Conclusions:
- IFN-alpha 2a is a well-tolerated treatment option for malignant mesothelioma.
- The therapy demonstrated clinical activity in a subset of MM patients, including responses and stable disease.
- Further investigation into IFN-alpha 2a's role in MM treatment is warranted.