Efficacy of the VBM regimen in the treatment of elderly patients with Hodgkin's disease

Citation
Pl. Zinzani et al., Efficacy of the VBM regimen in the treatment of elderly patients with Hodgkin's disease, HAEMATOLOG, 85(7), 2000, pp. 729-732
Citations number
22
Categorie Soggetti
Cardiovascular & Hematology Research
Journal title
HAEMATOLOGICA
ISSN journal
03906078 → ACNP
Volume
85
Issue
7
Year of publication
2000
Pages
729 - 732
Database
ISI
SICI code
0390-6078(200007)85:7<729:EOTVRI>2.0.ZU;2-0
Abstract
Background and Objectives. No specific chemotherapy regimens have yet been recommended for elderly Hodgkin's disease (HD) patients. We investigated th e therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of the three-drug-combination VBM (vinb lastine, bleomycin, and methotrexate) regimen in a group of 19 elderly HD p atients. Design and Methods. Vinblastine (6 mg/m(2) i.v.), bleomycin (10 mg/m(2) i.v .) and methotrexate (25 mg/m(2) i.v.) were administered on days 1 and 8. Ch emotherapy was repeated every 28 days for a total of 6 cycles. Local radiot herapy was given only to patients who presented bulky disease at the time o f diagnosis. Of the 19 patients, 13 had stage II, 2 stage III, and 4 stage IV disease; the median age was 68 years (range 60 to 75). Results. Of the 19 patients, 15 (79%) achieved complete response (CR) and 3 (16%) partial response, while the remaining patient showed no benefit from the treatment. With a median follow-up of 48 months, the estimated 5-year relapse-free survival was 79%, and overall survival was 64%. Hematologic gr ade 3-4 toxicity was seen in only 1 (5%) patient; no severe non-hematologic side effects or deaths were associated with the administration of the VBM regimen. Interpretation and Conclusions. These preliminary data indicate that the VB M regimen provides a safe and effective therapeutic option for elderly pati ents with untreated HD. (C) 2000, Ferrata Storti Foundation.