MTH-68

This treatment modality is used in place of conventional therapies to treat cancer. Seek advice from a qualified physician before replacing standard cancer therapy with MTH-68.

What does MTH-68 therapy involve?

MTH-68 is a live strain of Newcastle disease virus developed as an immunotherapy agent by Laszlo Csatary, a Hungarian-American physician currently living in the US. MTH-68 is administered to patients by injections or nasal inhalation.

How is MTH-68 thought to treat cancer?

MTH-68 is a nonpathogenic virus that is believed to interfere with cancer growth in humans. The virus is reported to enhance the immune system and selectively kill cancer cells. 

What has been proven about the benefit of MTH-68?

The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center conducted an extensive human studies literature review on MTH-68 and found eighteen studies applicable to cancer. Most of the studies reported some positive patient responses to treatment from tumor regression, increased survival and stable disease. A 1994 editorial in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) noted the “apparent ability [of the virus] to induce tumor lysis through different mechanisms.”

What is the potential risk or harm of MTH-68?

Reported side effects have included mild flu-like symptoms, fever and delayed type hypersensitivity skin reactions. Live viruses have the potential to undergo genetic recombination and/or mutation. Excessive production of antibodies to MTH-68 may block its proposed benefits. Also, if the injected virus is ineffective, repeated administration may cause immune complex deposition in the kidneys.

How much does MTH-68 therapy cost?

MTH-68 is only available in Hungary. Because live virus cannot be shipped, only a 6 month supply can be carried on ice by patients on an airplane. Estimated costs are approximately $900 per month.

For additional information:

The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, TX  77030
Telephone:  (800) 392-1611
Web site:  www.mdanderson.org/departments/CIMER/

Note: Information about therapies is intended to help you make informed choices, not to endorse any particular therapy. The information is courtesy of "Integrating Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Cancer Patients," a handbook written as an independent study project by Heather Morein. For more information, see the full text of the handbook (PDF), including all references and appendices.