Preliminary evaluation of VM-26: a new epipodophyllotoxin derivative, in the treatment of urogenital tumours.

VM-26, a podophyllin derivative, is cytotoxic in vitro against cell cultures of bladder tumours. Intravenous therapy of vesical carcinoma produces only occasional responses. One total regression was observed in our series. Intravesical instillations are more effective. Topical treatment of papillomatosis led to total or partial regression in one half of cases. A significant reduction of recurrence rate following transurethral surgery was obtained in patients treated intravesically with VM-26 at weekly intervals.