Arsenic trioxide, thalidomide and retinoid acid combination therapy in higher risk myelodysplastic syndrome patients

Abstract 

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of arsenic trioxide, retinoic acid and thalidomide combination therapy in higher risk MDS.

Methods

Twenty-one patients diagnosed with higher risk MDS were administered 10mg/day arsenic trioxide intravenously for 10 days, 40mg/day retinoic acid orally for 2 weeks and 100mg/day thalidomide orally for 4 weeks per cycle.

Results

After at least two treatment cycles, 10 patients showed hematologic responses. One achieved CR, one achieved PR, three patients achieved major hematological improvements. The efficacy rate was 24% (5/21), and the response rate was 48% (10/21). The schedule was tolerated well by all patients and toxicities were moderate and reversible.

Conclusion

The combination of arsenic trioxide, retinoic acid and thalidomide could have therapeutic benefit in higher risk MDS with safety.

Keywords: Arsenic trioxide, Retinoid acid, Thalidomide, Higher risk MDS