Quality-of-life-adjusted survival analysis of high-dose adjuvant interferon alpha-2b for high-risk melanoma patients using intergroup clinical trial data.

Purpose: High-dose adjuvant interferon alpha-2b (IFN alpha 2b) for high-risk melanoma is a 1-year regimen that improves relapse-free and overall survival but has significant toxicity. A quality-of-life--adjusted survival (QAS) analysis analysis of two cooperative group phase III trials, E1684 and E1690/S9111/C9190, was performed, incorporating patient values (utilities) for the toxicity of IFN alpha 2b treatment and melanoma recurrence.

Patients And Methods: Quality-Adjusted Time Without Symptoms or Toxicity methodology was used with melanoma patient utilities and trial data to estimate the effect of IFN alpha 2b on QAS.