Klin Onkol 2006; 19(1): 26-29.

Backgrounds:

Malignant cells in multiple myeloma produce a monoclonal immunoglobulin which is tumor-specific and can be used for the induction of T lymphocytes. The idiotype (Id) is expressed at the cell surface of malignant plasma cells and allows for recognition and targeting of these cells by Id-specific T lymphocytes.

Design and subject:

A phase II clinical study underwent in our centre, investigating the efficacy and toxicity of Id conjugated with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) given as a vaccine. 12 patients with multiple myeloma with stable disease or with slow progression not requiring systemic therapy were immunized six times without interleukin-2 (IL-2) or with IL-2 in the last three vaccination.

Methods and Results:

No significant toxicities were observed during vaccination. Three patients relapsed during the study, one patient died without connection to vaccination. Id-specific delayed type hypersensitivity skin tests were positive in 7 of 7 tested patients. The generation of Id-specific T-cell proliferative responses was documented in 2 patients. No significant production of interferon gamma was recorded. Relative number of memory B cells increased. No significant clinical response was observed.

Conclusions:

These findings shows that Id-protein is not a strong immunogen, therefore, the Id-KLH vaccine boosted by IL2 can not evoke a significant clinical response.

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