Complete remissions of mycosis fungoides lymphoma induced by topical nitrogen mustard (HN2). Control of delayed hypersensitivity to HN2 by desensitization and by induction of specific immunologic tolerance

Sustained complete remissions have been achieved with whole body continuous topical applications of aqueous solutions of mechlorethamine (HN2), and supplemental intralesional injections of tumors. Of 76 patients entered into the treatment study over a 4-year period, approximately 50% are free of detectable disease, 13 of whom have had remissions extending now beyond 2 years. Most patients experiencing complete remissions had disease confined to skin, without lymph node or visceral involvement, when topical therapy was initiated. Delayed hypersensitivity to HN2, a frequent occurrence, has been abolished in sensitized patients by means of daily minute I.V. doses of the drug. Induction of specific immunologic tolerance to HN2, prior to topical treatment, has been achieved by means of several weekly I.V. injections of similarly minute doses of the drug.