OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose of T138067 sodium that can be given to patients with advanced refractory cancer on a 28-day schedule and establish a dose for further study. II. Evaluate the safety and dose limiting toxicity of T138067 sodium in these patients. III. Determine the pharmacokinetic parameters after a single intravenous dose of this agent in these patients. IV. Obtain safety data and preliminary efficacy information after repetition of single doses of T138067 sodium in these patients.