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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Percutaneous Hepatic Perfusion (PHP) with Melphalan as a Treatment for Unresectable Metastases Confined to the Liver
Published on: July 31, 2016
Limited potential of hepatic arterial infusion of irinotecan
F A De Jong1, R H J Mathijssen, J Verweij
1Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam - Daniel den Hoed Cancer Center, Department of Medical Oncology, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. f.a.dejong@erasmusmc.nl
Abstract:
Intravenously administered irinotecan has gained an important place in the struggle against metastatic and/or irresectable colorectal cancer. In patients with irresectable metastases confined to the liver, hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) of this anti-cancer agent has considered to be an option. Partly based on conducted phase I- and II-studies, here we conclude that irinotecan as single agent HAI therapy has limited potential compared to intravenous administration. From a pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic point of view, in particular the long half-life of the active metabolite, SN-38, its use is limited as well. In our view, future clinical implementation of irinotecan as HAI chemotherapy is unrealistic.
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