Randomized comparison of pentostatin versus interferon alfa-2a in previously untreated patients with hairy cell leukemia: an intergroup study.

• DOI: 10.1200/jco.1995.13.4.974
• Publication Date: 2017-02-23T13:06:40Z
• Authors: M Grever; K Kopecky; M K Foucar; D Head; J M Bennett; R E Hutchison; W E Corbett; P A Cassileth; T Habermann; H Golomb
• Keywords: Pentostatin

PURPOSE Therapy of hairy cell leukemia has markedly improved. Interferon alfa-2a and pentostatin are active agents. The National Cancer Institute organized an intergroup trial to compare these agents prospectively in untreated patients. METHODS Patients were randomized receive either interferon (3 x 10(6) U subcutaneously three times per week) or (4 mg/m2 intravenously every 2 weeks). who did not respond initial treatment crossed over. RESULTS Of 356 patients on study, 313 eligible. Among patients, 17 159 (11%) achieved a confirmed complete remission 60 (38%) had partial remission. 117 154 (76%) 121 (79%) Additional criteria for remission, but lacked confirmatory follow-up evaluation. Response rates significantly higher (P < .0001) relapse-free survival was longer with than .0001). median duration is 57 months (range, 19 82). Myelosuppression more frequent = .013). A multivariate logistic regression analysis the remissions showed following factors be important achieving remission: high hemoglobin level (two-tailed P .024), young age .0085), no little splenomegaly .0029). CONCLUSION Both well tolerated. Pentostatin produced response rates, responses durable. Patient clinical status impact outcome pentostatin. effective therapy leukemia.