Zhonghua Nei Ke Za Zhi. 1993 Jul; 32(7): 470-2.

[HATP chemotherapy combined with Chinese traditional medications in treating acute promyelocytic leukemia]

Guo AX, Huang SL, Wang QE.

Dalian Traditional Medicine Hematological Research Institute.

18 patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) were treated with HATP (Harringtonine, Adriamycin, Thioguanine, Prednisone) chemotherapy combined with chinese traditional medications. These medications are known to strengthen vital energy, promote blood circulation, remove stasis and clear toxic materials. 16 patients had complete remission (88.8%) and one partial remission with a total effective rate of 94.4%. Complete remission (CR) was achieved after 3 to 4 courses of treatment in most of the cases. 14 patients were still in CR at the completion of this study and the average duration of survival was 40.5 months. With the various therapeutic actions mentioned above, the traditional medications might decrease the toxicity of chemotherapy, reduce its side effects and prevent the occurrence of DIC. The combined use of traditional medications with chemotherapy may increase the rate and duration of CR as well as prolong the survival.