Cytolytic effects of alloantiserum in patients with lymphoproliferative disorders.

Alloantiserum was administered to seven patients with lymphoproliferative disorders to assess its in vivo lymphocytoxic potency and possible side effects. Six patients responded with drops in lymphocyte and platelet counts averaging 48.8% and 25.5% of pretreatment values. Hemoglobin rose an average of 16.8%. Effects were maximal by 45 minutes and lasted less than one day. Two of five patients had shrinkage of peripheral lymphatic tissue, lasting 1–3 days. Liver and renal function and uric acid generally remained unchanged. Four patients had minor side effects including fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, and back pain. The two patients with the highest initial white blood counts also suffered short-lived respiratory distress; one developed frank pulmonary edema and temporary renal decompensation. All antiserum administration is worthy of further trial under conditions maximizing effects and minimizing hazards (in vitro screening, sufficient and repeated doses, and chemotherapy to reduce tumor mass).