Preliminary experience with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in liver metastases of uveal malignant melanoma: local tumor control and survival.

PURPOSE

To evaluate results in the palliative treatment of patients with liver metastases of uveal malignant melanoma using transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Superselective TACE was repeatedly performed in 12 patients with liver metastases of uveal malignant melanoma. Six patients presented with solitary liver metastases (6-12 cm in size) and six patients with oligonodular metastases (n < or = 6). The embolization suspension consisted of a maximum of 10 mg/m(2) Mitomycin C, 10 ml Lipiodol, and an injection of 200-450 mg resorbable microspheres for vascular occlusion. In the follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 3-month intervals.

RESULTS

The TACE procedure was well tolerated in all patients without any relevant side effects. Three patients responded to TACE with a size reduction of more than 50% (partial response), five patients with stable disease, and four patients with progressive disease with an increase in volume of more than 25%. Mean survival following primary tumor treatment was 32.9 months, and after first embolization 19.5 months. Lower survival rates were recorded for the progressive group (16.5 months).

CONCLUSION

Repeated TACE offers a palliative treatment option in patients with oligonodular liver metastases of uveal malignant melanoma.