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.
Di Stasi
S M
SM
Department of Urology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
Virgili
G
G
Vespasiani
G
G
Porena
M
M
Micali
F
F
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