High-dose cyclophosphamide. An effective treatment for advanced refractory multiple myeloma

Cancer. 1984 Apr 1;53(7):1456-60. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(19840401)53:7<1456::aid-cncr2820530705>3.0.co;2-c.

Abstract

The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group evaluated cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 intravenously daily X 4 (total dose each cycle 2400 mg/m2) as an aggressive approach to the treatment of patients with advanced multiple myeloma. The overall objective response rate is 43%. This includes a 38% response rate for all previously treated patients and a 29% response rate for patients refractory to prior therapy with cyclophosphamide. The objective response duration was 3 months and the survival of responding patients 9 months. A subjective response rate of 63% was observed, characterized by effective pain relief and improved performance. Sixty-nine percent of patients experienced leukocyte cell nadirs less than 500/mm2 with a mean time to marrow recovery of 17 days. Thrombocytopenia was less severe but required platelet transfusion in 43% of patients. Bone marrow toxicity was encountered in all patients, and death in aplasia is a significant risk. Strict adherence to entry criteria, and a systematic plan for hospitalization for antibiotic and blood component support is required for treatment with this regimen.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Alopecia / chemically induced
  • Cyclophosphamide / administration & dosage*
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Drug Evaluation
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Leukopenia / chemically induced
  • Multiple Myeloma / drug therapy*
  • Multiple Myeloma / pathology
  • Nausea / chemically induced
  • Thrombocytopenia / chemically induced
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Cyclophosphamide