British Journal of Haematology · 1996 · 231 citations · 0 references
MedicineHematologyPharmacologyClinical ImmunologyImmunotherapyMonoclonal AntibodiesChemotherapy In Hematologic MalignanciesHematologic Malignancy PharmacotherapyHematologic Malignancy TherapyHematologic ToxicityMonoclonal Antibody TherapyPharmacokinetics Of Monoclonal AntibodiesChronic Lymphocytic Leukemia TherapyClinical RemissionLymphoma ChemotherapyMonoclonal Antibody TherapeuticsResponse TimeSerious Adverse EventsViral Pneumonitis
The humanized CD52 monoclonal antibody Campath-1H was used as first-line therapy in nine patients with progressive chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Intravenous (n = 5) or subcutaneous (n = 4) injections (up to 30 mg/inj.) were given three times a week for a maximum of 18 weeks. Three patients achieved a complete remission (CR) and five patients a partial remission (PR) (response rate 89%). CLL cells were cleared from blood in all patients and from the bone marrow in seven patients. The response duration time was 8 + -24+ months. Adverse events were mild except for one patient who developed CMV pneumonitis. All patients developed lymphocytopenia (B and T cells) but other haematological toxicities were negligible. Campath-1H is a highly effective and well-tolerated agent in patients with previously untreated CLL and further studies are warranted.