An experimental model for the study of thermochemotherapy in vivo

Human melanomas serially passaged in nude mice as xenotransplants were used as models for the study of the effects of thermochemotherapy of human malignant tumours in vivo. Three such melanomas, one (BRO) fast-growing, one (SCH) slow-growing, and one (BEL) of intermediate growth rate, were chosen. One group was left untreated as a control, one received chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide), one received hyperthermia, and one a combination of both treatments. In all three tumours, the best results were obtained associating chemotherapy with hyperthermia. The fastest growing tumor responded more than the slower, which responded better than the slowest. This model should prove useful in testing the effectiveness of anticancer agents used in association with hyperthermia.