Endolymphatic delivery of IL2 in patients with melanoma and lymphoma

During this phase I/II study, enodolymphatic cannulae were placed in the iliac lymphatics under general anaesthesia. IL2 was then infused via this route at escalating doses until the highest tolerated dose was achieved; then, continuous infusion was maintained for 2 to 3 weeks. Seven patients with advanced cancer (3 lymphoma, 4 melanoma), resistant to all other modalities of treatment received such therapy. Most patients tolerated 4 to 5 x 10(6) u/day of IL2 for 2 to 3 weeks with less toxicity as compared to the equivalent dosage given intravenously. No severe perioperative morbidity was experienced. One melanoma patient had a minor clinical response. Changes in circulating lymphocyte numbers and cytotoxicity demonstrated a systemic effect of endolymphatic IL2 therapy.

The endolymphatic administration of IL2 is associated with less toxicity than the intravenous route but still achieves a systemic effect; a lower tumour burden may prove more responsive to this therapy.