Based on the results of the Kirkwood high-dose interferon alpha-2b (HDI) adjuvant therapy trial of the Eastem Cooperative Oncology Group 1684, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved HDI as the postoperative adjuvant therapy for high-risk melanoma. Unfortunately, controversies continue regarding the use of interferon (IFN) as adjuvant therapy for melanoma owing to the inconsistent results of subsequent rials. Numerous trials of adjuvant interferon therapy demonstrated a benefit in terms of relapse-free survival (RFS), but without confirmed significant effect on overall survival (OS). The optimal timing, dose, and type of interferon are not yet defined. Therefore, adjuvant interferon treatment is preferentially applied in the randomized clinical triais in specialized centers. Decisions about the appropdatenass of adjuvant interferon alfa-2b treatment for patients should be made on an individual basis, after discussion with the patient, including an explanation of the potential benefits and side ef

来源：癌症 2010 年 29卷 11期