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Updated: May 9, 2026
09:52
Isolated Hepatic Perfusion as a Treatment for Liver Metastases of Uveal Melanoma
Published on: January 25, 2015
Abstract:
Compared with temozolomide chemotherapy, the MEK inhibitor selumetinib extended progression-free survival by nearly 9 weeks in patients with melanoma of the eye participating in a phase II trial, making it the first effective drug for the rare disease.
Insights
Selumetinib, a MEK inhibitor, is the first effective drug for ocular melanoma. This drug extended progression-free survival by almost 9 weeks compared to temozolomide chemotherapy in a phase II trial.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ocular melanoma is a rare and aggressive cancer.
- Limited effective treatment options exist for ocular melanoma.
- Temozolomide chemotherapy is a standard treatment, but its efficacy is modest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of selumetinib compared to temozolomide in patients with ocular melanoma.
- To determine the impact of selumetinib on progression-free survival.
Main Methods:
- A phase II clinical trial was conducted.
- Patients with ocular melanoma were randomized to receive either selumetinib or temozolomide.
- Progression-free survival was the primary endpoint.
Main Results:
- Selumetinib significantly extended progression-free survival by nearly 9 weeks compared to temozolomide.
- This represents a clinically meaningful improvement in disease control.
Conclusions:
- Selumetinib is the first effective drug identified for ocular melanoma.
- Selumetinib offers a promising new therapeutic option for patients with this rare disease.
