[Endo-osseous isotope therapy of malignant skeletal disease (author's transl)].

The intravenous application of 89-strontium for the relief of pain in 43 patients with breast cancer, bronchogenic cancer, carcinoma of the prostate, hypernephroma and lymphoma with generalized bone metastases is reported. A remarkable clinical improvement was achieved in 33 (76.7%) patients. In four patients a transient analgesic effect was observed. In six cases no response could be achieved. The therapeutic effect usually was long-lasting. At the same time, an increase of alkaline phosphatase was observed, which was interpreted as an indication for the stimulation of osteoblasts and osteoid peripheral zones owing to beta-emission of the radioisotope in the affected areas. There was a significant correlation between the concentration of 85Sr in the bone scan and the therapeutic result of 89Sr-therapy. The indication for such therapy and possible late adverse effects of bone-seeking isotopes are discussed.