AIDS-associated mucocutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma treated with bleomycin

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate efficacy and tolerance of bleomycin in AIDS-associated mucocutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma. A previous study showed that bleomycin was effective and well tolerated in this setting.

Design: A non-comparative, open, prospective study.

Methods: Seventy patients were treated with 5 mg per day intramuscular bleomycin on 3 consecutive days every 2 weeks.

Results: Two patients achieved a complete response and 50 a partial response (overall response rate, 74%). Median time to treatment response was 4 weeks (range, 2-12 weeks) and median time to relapse 10 weeks (range, 2-36 weeks). Dose-limiting toxicity consisted of cutaneous adverse reactions.

Conclusion: Bleomycin is active against AIDS-associated mucocutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma; relapse occurs after discontinuation of therapy.