Abstract
To improve the complete response (CR) rate in advanced multiple myeloma (MM) without increasing the toxicity of high-dose therapy, we have used a new conditioning regimen. A combination of BE-8 [an anti-interleukin 6 (IL-6) murine monoclonal antibody] and dexamethasone followed by high-dose melphalan (220 mg/m2) and autologous stem cell transplantation was used to treat a series of 16 patients with advanced multiple myeloma. A strong inhibition of IL-6 activity evaluated by quantification of C-reactive protein was observed in all patients and was correlated with the high CR rate achieved with this combination therapy.
Publication types
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Clinical Trial
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Clinical Trial, Phase II
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Comparative Study
MeSH terms
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Adult
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Animals
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Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
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Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / therapeutic use
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Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
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Dexamethasone / therapeutic use
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Drug Administration Schedule
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Female
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Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
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Humans
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Interleukin-6 / immunology*
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Male
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Melphalan / therapeutic use
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Mice
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Middle Aged
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Multiple Myeloma / drug therapy*
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Recurrence
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Treatment Outcome
Substances
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Antibodies, Monoclonal
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Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
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Glucocorticoids
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Interleukin-6
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Dexamethasone
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Melphalan