Double isolated limb infusion with cytotoxic agents for recurrent and metastatic limb melanoma

Eur J Surg Oncol. 2004 May;30(4):433-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ejso.2004.01.015.

Abstract

Metastatic melanoma confined to a limb can be treated effectively by isolated limb infusion (ILI) with cytotoxic drugs. The present study was undertaken to determine whether electively performing a second ILI procedure after 4 weeks increases the frequency and/or duration of response, and also to assess the value of a second ILI when disease recurrence or progression in a limb occurs after a first ILI. In 47 patients, a planned double ILI protocol achieved an overall response (OR) rate of 88% (complete response (CR) 41%, partial response (PR) 47%, median duration of response 18 months). Response rates after double ILI were similar to those in 81 patients treated with a single ILI over the same time period (CR 41%, PR 41%), without significant differences in response duration. After double ILI more patients experienced Wieberdink Grade III or IV limb toxicity. Following a second ILI for progression after an initial ILI (n=14), the OR rate was 71%, with a 5 month median duration of response. Since elective double ILI increases toxicity without increasing efficacy, performance of a single ILI is the preferred treatment option for melanoma confined to a limb. However, a second ILI can be of value if limb disease recurs or progresses following a previous ILI.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Chemotherapy, Cancer, Regional Perfusion
  • Extremities
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanoma / drug therapy*
  • Melanoma / mortality
  • Melanoma / secondary
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / drug therapy*
  • Survival Analysis
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents