Daijiworld Media Network- Tampa

Tampa, Apr 11: A breakthrough in cancer treatment may offer new hope to patients battling metastatic uveal melanoma (mUM)—a rare and aggressive eye cancer that often spreads to the liver. In a major multi-institutional study led by the Moffitt Cancer Center in Florida, USA, researchers found that a targeted drug delivery method significantly improves outcomes while preserving patients’ quality of life.

The study, published in the Annals of Surgical Oncology, assessed the Melphalan Hepatic Delivery System, a unique approach that administers high-dose chemotherapy directly to the liver, where uveal melanoma often metastasizes.

Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which circulates through the entire body and often causes severe side effects, this percutaneous hepatic perfusion system isolates the liver and delivers concentrated doses of melphalan, a chemotherapy drug. The drug is filtered out before it enters the broader bloodstream, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

“This new treatment gives hope to patients with this historically tough-to-treat cancer,” said Dr. Jonathan Zager, surgical oncologist at Moffitt. “It provides an option that doesn’t interfere with their quality of life and gives patients a chance at longer survival.”

In the clinical trials, patients were divided into two groups—one received treatment through the melphalan hepatic delivery system, while the other was provided standard-of-care therapies.

• Progression-free survival rose dramatically to 9.1 months, compared to 3.3 months in the control group.

• Disease control rate surged from 46.9% to 80%.

• Median overall survival improved to 18.5 months, compared to 14.5 months in patients receiving alternative care.

Though some side effects related to blood cell counts were noted, these were generally manageable with standard outpatient care and resolved with observation.

The treatment received FDA approval in August 2023, marking a significant milestone in rare cancer therapy. While the findings are promising, researchers note that further studies are needed to confirm long-term benefits and explore broader applications.

As the fight against metastatic uveal melanoma continues, this new delivery method stands as a beacon of hope, offering renewed chances for patients facing one of the most challenging forms of eye cancer.