Clinical phase II trial of recombinant dna interferon (interferon alfa 2b) in patients with metastatic malignant melanoma

Twenty‐four patients with historically proven metastatic malignant melanoma were included in a Phase II trial of human DNA recombinant interferon (rDNA IFNα2). They were given 10 × 106 IU of IFNα2 subcutaneously three times a week until progression of disease or major intolerance developed. Twenty‐ two patients were evaluable for toxicity and response. General manifestations of intolerance were seen in all the patients. Hematologic toxicity was seen in six patients and therapy had to be interrupted in one patient. Mild liver toxicity was seen in most patients after 2 weeks of treatment. These manifestations disappeared within 2 weeks after treatment was discontinued. A partial response was seen in four cases lasting 2, 4, 4, and 5 months, respectively. There were two complete responses (one skin, one lymph node metastasis) lasting 20 and 6 weeks, respectively. These results indicate a potential role for rDNA IFNα2 in treating patients with metastatic malignant melanoma. However, further trials are required to determine the optimal dose and schedule of administration and modalities of combination. Cancer 58:215–218, 1986.