High-dose cytosine arabinoside in the treatment of refractory acute nonlymphocytic leukemia in adults: Results of two six-day regimens

High-dose cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C) was used in adult patients with refractory acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia, either alone (3 g/m2 every 12 h X 12 doses) or with 3 additional days of anthracycline antibiotics. The systemic toxicities were similar for both groups without an increase in the group receiving anthracyclines. Bone marrow recovery was also similar for these groups. The antileukemic effect was not statistically increased in the group receiving anthracyclines, but when a comparison of the complete remission late in resistant patients is made, there is a trend toward a greater number of complete remissions when anthracyclines are included in the regimen (p = 0.09). High-dose Ara-C is effective therapy for refractory leukemia; the addition of anthracyclines may enhance the effect of the Ara-C.