Phase II trial of cisplatin and alpha-interferon in advanced malignant melanoma.

Abstract

PURPOSE To evaluate the antitumor activity of combination cisplatin (CDDP) and alpha-interferon (alpha-IFN) in advanced, measurable metastatic melanoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS Adult patients with metastatic melanoma were required to have bidimensionally measurable lesions and a Karnofsky performance status > or = 60%. Serum creatinine < or = to 1.5 mg/dL, creatinine clearance > or = 60 mL/min, adequate organ and bone marrow function, and radiologic proof of the absence of brain metastases were required. CDDP 40 mg/m2 intravenously (IV) on day 1 and day 8, and alpha-IFN 3 million units/m2 subcutaneously on days 1 to 5 and 8 to 12 were administered every 3 to 4 weeks. RESULTS Forty-two patients were entered onto this phase II trial and were assessable for response and toxicity. Three patients achieved complete responses (CRs) that lasted 31+, 5, and 8+ months. Seven patients had partial responses (PRs) and a median response duration of 4.4 months. The overall objective response rate was 24% (95% confidence interval, 12% to 39%). Toxicities were mild. Only 11% of the courses required dose reduction of alpha-IFN, and three of 128 courses required CDDP dose reduction for reversible nephrotoxicity. CONCLUSION The combination of moderate-dose CDDP and alpha-IFN as administered in this schedule is well tolerated and possesses encouraging activity in metastatic melanoma.