Intralesional alpha interferon therapy in papillary superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. A pilot study.
The tolerability, toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of recombinant interferon alpha-2a (rIFN alpha-2a), administered by intralesional injection, were evaluated in 15 patients with papillary superficial transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder, rIFN alpha-2a was delivered endoscopically in a single weekly dose of 3 x 10(6) IU for 4 weeks (total 12 x 10(6) IU). Transurethral resection of residual tumours was then performed. The response to treatment was assessed according to ultrasonographic, endoscopic and pathological findings. One patient achieved complete remission, 6 partial remission, 6 minor remission and 2 stabilisation of disease. All patients completed the course of treatment. A mild, transient, flu-like syndrome was documented after every injection. Immunological findings suggest that the antitumour effects of rIFN alpha 2a are not mediated through the immune system.
Department of Urology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
S M
SM
Di Stasi
G
G
Virgili
G
G
Vespasiani
M
M
Porena
F
F
Micali
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002295:Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015552:Injections, Intralesional; D007370:Interferon Type I / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D001749:Urinary Bladder Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*
D007370:Interferon Type I; D011994:Recombinant Proteins