Central nervous system leukemia and solid tumors of childhood: Treatment with 1,3‐bis (2‐chloroethyl)‐1‐nitrosourea (BCNU)

Abstract

BCNU (1,3‐bis(2‐chloroethyl)‐1‐nitrosourea) was administered to 6 children with central nervous system leukemia and 8 children with solid tumors. Being lipid soluble, BCNU has the capacity to cross the “blood‐brain barrier,” making it a potentially effective agent for the parenteral treatment of CNS leukemia. Remission of CNS manifestations occurred in 3 of 6 children with CNS leukemia. Temporary regression of tumor was noted in 2 patients with Ewing's sarcoma and in one with neuroblastoma. Thrombocytopenia was a constant feature in all patients. Two died from hemorrhage associated with thrombocytopenia. Copyright © 1966 American Cancer Society