Effect of Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) on Neutropenia Occuring during Radiotherapy

GM-CSF가 방사선 치료시 발생한 호중구감소증에 미치는 영향

Purpose : To assess the efficacy of recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor(GM-CSF) in the neutropenia by radiotherapy. Materials and Methods : Eleven patients with various solid tumor were treated with a daily subcutaneous dose of GM-CSF(3-7microgram/kg) for 5days during the radiotherapy. Before and during the course of the study all the patients were monitored by the recording of physical examination, the complete blood count with differential and reticulocyte count and liver function test. Eight patients received prior or concurrent chemotherapy. Results : In 10 patients, the neutrophilic nadir was significantly elevated and the lenght of time that Patients had a neutrophil count below $10^3/mm^3$ a threshold known to be critical to acquiring infective complications was shortened following GM-CSF injection. A significant rise (two fold or greater) of neutrophil count was seen in 10 of 11 patients. In most patients, discontinuation of GM-CSF resulted in a prompt return of granulocyte counts toward baseline. However the neutrophil count remained elevated over $10^3/mm^3$ during radiation therapy, and radiotherapy delays were avoided. Other peripheral blood components including monocytes and platelets also increased after GM-CSF treatment. No significant toxicity was encountered with subcutaneous GM-CSF treatment. Conclusion : GM-CSF was well tolerated by subcutaneous route and induced improvement in the neutropenia caused by radiotherapy.