Chemoimmunotherapy of adult acute leukemia

Cancer. 1981 Mar 15;47(6):1256-61. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19810315)47:6<1256::aid-cncr2820470605>3.0.co;2-9.

Abstract

Sixty-two adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia were treated with a chemotherapy program of Adriamycin, Cytosine Arabinoside (Ara-C), vincristine, and prednisone (Ad-OAP). Immunotherapy with BCG by scarification was administered before and/or during remission induction therapy. Maintenance chemoimmunotherapy consisted of Ara-C, vincristine, prednisone, and BCG. Patients still in remission after 12 months received late intensification chemotherapy for three courses before discontinuing chemotherapy. Forty-four (71%) patients achieved a complete remission (CR). The CR rate for patients less than 50 years of age ws 84% (32/38). Age was strongly predictive for response and survival. An additional 14 patients with acute lymphoid leukemia were treated with the same program; ten patients responded, all have relapsed and died. Nine patients with AML remain alive 4 1/2-6+ years from diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • BCG Vaccine / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Leukemia, Myeloid, Acute / therapy*
  • Middle Aged
  • Prognosis
  • Remission, Spontaneous

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • BCG Vaccine