Initial observations on the administration of thymus extract (TFX) in patients with alimentary tract neoplasms.

Abstract

The administration of thymus extract (TFX) has been performed in 35 patients suffering from malignancies of the alimentary tract. TFX, being a calf thymuses extract prepared by Jelenia Góra Drug Producers "Polfa" was given in the dose of 0.5 mg in 3 or 7-day intervals during several months. The immunological condition of patients was checked by many tests: E-rosettes, DLT (direct lymphocytotoxicity test) determination of absolute number of peripheral blood lymphocytes and skin tests (RT-23, PHA and TFX). Our observations revealed that TFX is biologically active also in humans, increases cell-mediated immunity and may restore the immune capability of patients operated due to malignancies of the alimentary tract.