Author/Editor | Jereb, B; Petrič-Grabnar, G; Klun, B; Lamovec, J; Škrbec, M; Soos, E | |
Title | Addition of IFN-alpha to treatment of malignant brain tumors | |
Type | članek | |
Source | Acta Oncol | |
Vol. and No. | Letnik 33, št. 6 | |
Publication year | 1994 | |
Volume | str. 651-4 | |
Language | eng | |
Abstract | Despite many attempts to improve the survival after surgery of patients with malignant astrocytoma the prognosis is poor. We have used natural IFN-alpha in 16 patients with malignant astrocytoma treated between 1987 and 1990; 6 for recurrent tumors. Radiation therapy was given in 2 Gy fractions daily to a total dose of 50 Gy in the tumor area, 5 fractions per week and IFN twice per week, cisplatinum 60 mg/m2 i.v. every second week and vincristine 2 mg every week in 12-h i.v. infusions. Eight patients were reoperated when clinical deterioration suggested recurrent tumor; histological examination showed no residual tumor in 7 of them. Of these 8 patients 3 are alive and well, 2 of them after more than 5 years. The study suggests that malignant astrocytoma can be successfully eradicated with surgery, irradiation, IFN-alpha and chemotherapy. The treatment had, however, unacceptably high neurotoxicity. Earlier removal of the tumor necrosis, before clinical deterioration, could possibly diminish the high complication rate and consequently improve survival. | |
Descriptors | ASTROCYTOMA BRAIN NEOPLASMS GLIOBLASTOMA INTERFERON-ALPHA ADULT AGED COMBINED MODALITY THERAPY MIDDLE AGE NEOPLASM RECURRENCE, LOCAL SURVIVAL ANALYSIS TREATMENT OUTCOME |