Polyethylene glycolated interleukin-2 as maintenance therapy for acute myelogenous leukemia in second remission

Seven patients in second complete remission of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) aged 19–65 years were treated with polyethylene glycolated interleukin-2 (PEG IL-2), 1 × 106 U/M2 IV weekly as the sole postremission therapy. Second remission duration was in the range of 4–49+ months, and three patients had a second remission duration substantially longer than their first (6,21 +, and 42+ months). The results suggest that PEG IL-2 may prolong second remission duration in AML and that a prospective randomized study designed to test that idea is warranted. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.