Low Dose Interleukin 2 for Head and Neck Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): G. Cortesinal, A. De Stefani, E. Galeazzil, G.P. Cavallol, F. Badellino, G. Margarino, C. Jemma, G. Forni
Primary Institution: Universita' di Torino, Turin, Italy; Istituto Scientifico Tumori, Genoa, Italy
Hypothesis
Can low doses of recombinant interleukin 2 (IL-2) effectively treat recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck?
Conclusion
Low doses of recombinant IL-2 can lead to temporary regression in some patients with recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Supporting Evidence
- One complete response and three partial responses were observed in patients receiving 500 U of IL-2.
- The higher dose of 500,000 U was not effective.
- Responses lasted 3-5 months before further treatments were ineffective.
Takeaway
Doctors tested a medicine called IL-2 to see if it could help people with a type of throat cancer. A small dose worked better than a big dose.
Methodology
Patients received ten daily injections of either 500 or 500,000 U of recombinant IL-2 around tumor-draining lymph nodes.
Limitations
Responses were temporary, lasting only 3-5 months, and further treatments were ineffective.
Participant Demographics
Patients aged 18-75 with recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
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