Intensive recombinant interleukin-2 and alpha-interferon therapy in patients with advanced head and neck squamous carcinoma

BACKGROUND: Cellular immune deficiency is a consistent finding in patients with advanced head and neck cancer. Interleukin-2 and alpha-interferon are modulators of the immune system. METHODS: Eleven patients with recurrent head and neck cancer were treated in a Phase II study of recombinant human interleukin-2 (rIL-2) and alpha-2a-interferon (Roferon-A, Hoffmann-La Roche, Inc., Nutley, NJ). Each course consisted of rIL-2, 3 x 10(6) U/m2/day, as a continuous intravenous infusion over 24 hours for 4 days, and recombinant alpha-2a-interferon, 5 x 10(6) U/m2/day intramuscularly or subcutaneously daily for 4 days. This treatment was repeated weekly for 4 weeks, and then a second cycle was given after a 2-week break. RESULTS: Two patients (18%) achieved a partial response. Toxic effects were substantial. Three of 11 patients experienced Grade 3 hypotension, 3 patients had Grade 3 oliguria, and Grade 3 fatigue was one of the most common reasons for withdrawal from the study. There were no deaths or need for intensive care monitoring. CONCLUSIONS: In view of the 18% response rate, additional investigation of biologic therapy in advanced head and neck cancer is warranted.