A phase II study of spirogermanium in advanced human malignancy.

Spirogermanium, a heavy metal compound in which germanium has been substituted in an azaspirane ring structure, was studied in 39 patients with advanced malignant neoplasms. Thirty-one patients were considered evaluable for toxic effects of spirogermanium. Transient neurological symptoms occurred in 12 patients (39%), including dizziness or lightheadedness, marked fatigue, visual blurring, ataxia, paresthesia, and nausea. These symptoms could be reduced by infusing the drug over 2 hours rather than over 1 hour. Persistent neurotoxicity in the form of partial loss of taste or extreme weakness was observed in three patients. No evidence of hematologic, renal, or hepatic toxicity was observed. Antitumor activity of spirogermanium was not identified in this group of heavily pretreated patients. Spirogermanium had limited and acceptable toxicity in utilizing a dose of 120 mg/m2 infused over 2 hours, three times weekly.