A phase 2 trial of recombinant interleukin-2 and 5-fluorouracil in patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma

Abstract

The toxicity and efficacy of sequential 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and recombinant interleukin-2 (IL-2) were evaluated in 12 patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma. This combination of 5-FU and IL-2 produced a 10% partial response rate with 40% of patients remaining in stable disease while on therapy. No clear improvement in survival was demonstrable. In contrast to the disappointing response rates the overall level of toxicity was very low with no treatment related deaths. It is concluded that modifications in treatment schedules are required before further similar studies are commenced.