Recombinant human erythropoietin in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes. An interim report.
BACKGROUND
It has recently been demonstrated that erythropoietin increases hemoglobin levels in anemia secondary to chronic renal failure. Some recent experiences have suggested a possible role in the treatment of anemia in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).


RESULTS
From April, 1990 to March, 1991, 16 patients (11 males and 5 females, median age 58.5 years) affected by low-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) were treated with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) to ameliorate Hb levels and reduce transfusional requirement. All patients received high doses of rHuEPO (400 U/Kg s.c. twice weekly for 3 months). A partial response, defined as a stable increase in Hb levels > 1g/dL and/or a reduction in transfusional need > 50% lasting at least 3 months, was achieved by 5/16 patients. Those who responded received an additional course of treatment with rHuEPO at an increased dosage (600 U/Kg twice weekly for 3 months), and one of these five showed a progressive rise in Hb level up to normalization, while the other 4 remained stable. The treatment was well tolerated and no adverse reactions were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that some patients with MDS may benefit from rHuEPO treatment.
Aloe Spiriti
M A
MA
Dipartimento di Biopatologia Umana, Università La Sapienza, Roma, Italy.
Petti
M C
MC
Latagliata
R
R
Avvisati
G
G
De Gregoris
C
C
Proia
S
S
Fazi
P
P
Jaalouk
G
G
Mancini
M
M
Spadea
A
A
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001772:Blood Cell Count; D001803:Blood Transfusion; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004341:Drug Evaluation; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006454:Hemoglobins / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009190:Myelodysplastic Syndromes / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000628:therapy; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D006454:Hemoglobins; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D004921:Erythropoietin