VP16-213, cisplatinum, and adriamycin salvage therapy of refractory and/or recurrent nonseminomatous germ cell neoplasms.

Eleven patients with recurrent and/or resistant nonseminomatous germinal cell neoplasms refractory to conventional chemotherapy were treated with the combination. VP16-213, cis-diamminedichloroplatinum, and adriamycin. One complete response, four partial responses which at surgery were benign teratomas, and six partial responses have been observed. Four patients are prolonged survivors (greater than 18 months). The possibility that this regimen may offer true salvage for refractory patients exists. Incorporation of VP16-213 into initial treatment regimens for germinal cell neoplasms is warranted.