PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: See Disease Characteristics Prior thalidomide allowed if received less than 3 months of therapy Recovered from prior biologic therapy Chemotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 weeks since prior chemotherapy and recovered No other concurrent chemotherapy Endocrine therapy: See Disease Characteristics No concurrent hormonal therapy Radiotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 3 weeks since prior extensive or limited radiotherapy and recovered No concurrent radiotherapy Surgery: Not specified