Induction and Persistence of Complete Remission in a Resistant Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patient after Treatment with Recombinant Interleukin-2

A complete and persistent clinico-hematologic remission was obtained in an M4 acute myeloid leukemia patient after treatment with recombinant interleukin 2 (rIL2) alone. After two autologous bone-marrow transplantations and in the third relapse with 10% persistent blasts in the marrow, the patient was treated with two intensive courses of rIL2 given by continuous infusion over a period of 13 days. rIL2 administration was accompanied by significant side effects and followed by notable hematological, clinical and immunological modifications. Complete remission was achieved after these two courses and has been maintained with monthly low-dose cycles of rIL2 given on an out-patient basis. Eighteen months after starting treatment with rIL2 the patient is well and in persistent remission.