Systemic therapy in metastatic colorectal cancer

Article Abstract:

There are more than 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer in the United States each year, and 60,000 deaths from the disease. The standard treatment for colorectal cancer that has spread beyond the original site (metastasized) is fluorouracil, a chemotherapeutic agent. Fluorouracil has been given alone and in combination with other drugs, and now it is being biologically modulated using interferon. Although with certain treatments or treatment combinations, response rates have risen, median survival times have not improved over the years. The expense of treatment and the highly toxic side effects, including death, are additional problems. In the 1970s, optimistic results from some research trials on combination chemotherapy could not be reproduced, and survival rates were unaffected; an increased risk of leukemia was also demonstrated. In two studies, the addition of cisplatin, a drug used to increase the effectiveness of fluorouracil, did not alter response rates or median survival times. Of six trials of fluorouracil with folinic acid added, three showed no improvement in response rate, while three others seem to show improved response rates and median survival times. One study, using a low dosage of folinic acid, reported minimal toxic effects and an improved quality of life. However, caution is urged in interpreting these results because of treatment-related deaths and severe toxicity, and also because some of the survival data are not yet available for a full evaluation. Preliminary reports on the use of interleukin-2 therapy show frequent life-threatening toxic reactions. Fluorouracil with levamisole is no better than fluorouracil alone. Although treatment results have improved somewhat over the past 30 years, most patients with colorectal cancer that has spread still die of their disease. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Colorectal cancer, Prognosis, Cancer metastasis, Chemotherapy, Fluorouracil, Leucovorin, Folinic acid, Cisplatin, Levamisole

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Interleukin-2

Article Abstract:

Interleukin-2 is classified as a lymphokine, a substance released by sensitized white blood cells (lymphocytes) when they come in contact with specific antigens. Recombinant interleukin-2 (IL-2), which is available from the National Cancer Institute for the experimental treatment of renal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma, stimulates the growth of T lymphocytes. IL-2 is called a 'biological-response modifier' because its antitumor activity is mediated through the immune system by the activation of white blood cells which produce killer cells that destroy tumor cells. This effect has been shown to occur in laboratory animals, and its mechanism is unknown. Even though the drug has recently become available in Europe, the Federal Drug Administration has not yet approved it for marketing in this country. A discussion of the clinical trials and adverse effects are included. The adverse effects are extensive and can be severe, and the therapeutic effect is small and very short-lasting. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Research, Complications and side effects, Medical research, Medicine, Experimental

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Atherogenic effect of Interleukin-2 and Antiatherogenic effect of Interleukin-2 antibody in apo-E-deficient mice

Article Abstract:

The atherogenic effect of Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and antiatherogenic effect of Interleukin-2 antibody in Apo-E-deficient mice is studied. The IL-2 was found as an atherogenic cytokine in apo-E-deficient mice and anti IL-2 was found as protective against atherosclerosis and would help in modifying the atherosclerotic process.

United States, Dosage and administration, Mice as laboratory animals, House mouse, Drug testing

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