Purpose/objectives: To review results of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) trial E1684 in the context of nursing issues concerning interferon alfa-2b (IFN alpha-2b) as adjuvant therapy for high-risk melanoma.
Data sources: Published results of ECOG trial E1684 and additional safety data provided by the trial sponsor. Selection of material was based on information that would expand on published safety results and present patient-management strategies relevant to oncology nurses.
Data synthesis: High-dose IFN alpha-2b significantly prolonged median relapse-free survival (< 0.01) and overall survival (p = 0.047), but side effects required extensive nursing interventions. With appropriate patient management, including dose modifications, 74% of patients who did not relapse received a full course of therapy.
Conclusions: Adjuvant, high-dose IFN alpha-2b can significantly prolong relapse-free and overall survival in patients with high-risk melanoma, but nursing interventions are required to ensure patient compliance.
Implications for nursing practice: Accurate nursing assessment and appropriate interventions can help patients safely complete this effective adjuvant therapy.