Heating improves the effectiveness of cisplatin and OK-432 in treating malignant pleural effusion

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the toxicity and efficacy of thermotherapy used with a streptococcus A preparation (OK-432) and cisplatin for treating malignant pleural effusion (MPE),and to assess patients' tolerance.Methods A total of 158 MPE patients were randomized into experimental and control groups.Closed drainage of the thoracic cavity was conducted with all the patients using a central venous catheter,and systematic chemotherapy was administered individually on the basis of each patient's condition.Patients in the control group were treated with intrapleural administration of OK-432 (0.5 mg) and cisplatin (40-60 mg) weekly for a maximum of 4 weeks,while those in the experimental group were given 60min of high frequency electrical thermotherapy 30-60 min after the administration of the drugs.The thermotherapy was at 40-43.5 ℃ and administered twice a week.Efficacy,quality of life and toxicity were compared between the two groups.Results The overall response rate in the experimental and control groups was 90.6% and 79.5% respectively;and grade I-II toxicity was similar.No grade Ⅲ or more serious toxicity was observed.The life quality scores in both groups were significantly improved after treatment.Conclusions Thermotherapy combined with intrapleural OK-432 and cisplatin can improve the effectiveness of therapy and life quality in MPE patients without increased toxicity. Key words: Thermotherapy; Streptococcus A preparation; Cisplatin; Malignant pleural effusion