Advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: adjunctive interferon gamma in induction and maintenance therapy

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of interferon gamma (IFNgamma) as an adjunct to chemotherapy in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods: A total of 32 patients were recruited and received 25 mg/m2 cisplatin and 100 mg/m2 etoposide on days 8, 10 and 12 every 3 weeks for a total of three cycles. A dose of 100 microg IFNgamma was given subcutaneously three times weekly from days 1 to 8 and between days 15 and 29. After induction, all patients except those with progressive disease were offered IFNgamma maintenance therapy: 100 microg three times weekly.

Results: The following responses were obtained: partial response, 5 (16%); minor response, 12 (37%); stable disease, 4 (13%); progressive disease, 11 (34%). The survival rates after 1 and 2 years were 47% and 25% respectively. Patients receiving maintenance IFNgamma had a 2-year survival rate of 58%. Toxic side-effects were rare and included grade III/IV fever (7%/1%) and grade III/IV leucopenia (4%/1%).

Conclusions: In patients with advanced NSCLC, an adjunctive dose of 100 microg IFNgamma, given three times weekly in the induction and maintenance phase, is feasible. Survival data seem favourable so this regimen may warrant further investigation in a phase III study.