[Arterial infusion method: its theory and clinical application--dosage and regimen]

The special feature of the arterial infusion method is that, when an anticancer agent is given, a high concentration of the drug is distributed through the nourish arterial system to the neoplasm. However, should the drug flow back to the heart and enter the second circulation system, the same dynamics hold as do in the venous route approach. Thus, using this feature, the suitable anticancer agent must be selected and the dose and regimen determined. Recently, continuous arterial infusion of 5-FU, MTX and other agents, arterial infusion of MMC and ADM over a given time course, plus microcapsulation of anticancer agents or improved chemotherapy for possible embolization, have been used to deal with embolisms. The most remarkable effects have been obtained in liver carcinoma among others. Rescue with antidotes to counter side effects of using the arterial route is relatively easy. There are agents suitable for arterial infusion among BRM, and favorable clinical applications are expected.