A retrospective analysis of thalidomide therapy in non-HIV-related Kaposi's sarcoma.

BACKGROUND

Thalidomide has antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory properties and has recently been used in the management of human malignancies. Several studies have suggested its interest for treating AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and toxicity of thalidomide, an antiangiogenic agent, for the treatment of non-HIV-related Kaposi's sarcoma.

METHODS

Eleven patients were included in this retrospective study conducted in the Department of Dermatology of Saint Louis, Paris, between 2000 and 2003. Among them, 2 were immunosuppressed (1 renal transplant recipient and 1 patient with microscopic polyangiitis treated by oral steroids) with stable immunosuppressive regimens during the past 6 months. The median daily thalidomide dosage was 100 mg and the median duration of drug treatment was 16 weeks.

RESULTS

Three patients achieved a partial response and 4 had a stable disease. Although no grade 3 or 4 was observed, 3 (27%) out of 11 patients prematurely discontinued thalidomide because of grade 1 sensory neuropathy (paresthesia) and vertigo.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show a true although modest interest of thalidomide in non-HIV-related Kaposi's sarcoma and prompt us to evaluate less toxic thalidomide analogues for this indication.