[A hyperthermic perfusion therapy using peplomycin and ethanol for bladder cancer]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Urology
• Biomedical Engineering

Context:

• Superficial bladder tumors present a treatment challenge.
• Hyperthermic perfusion is an emerging therapeutic modality.
• Peplomycin is an antineoplastic agent with potential in bladder cancer treatment.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the efficacy of hyperthermic perfusion with peplomycin for bladder tumors.
• To assess the safety and side effects of this treatment modality.

Summary:

• Eight patients with superficial bladder tumors and two with deep bladder tumors underwent hyperthermic perfusion (43°C for 2 hours) using a perfusate containing peplomycin (40 µg/ml) and ethanol (2%). Intramuscular peplomycin (5 mg) was administered prior to perfusion.
• Pre-treatment tumor assessment included ultrasonography, cystoscopy, and cystography.
• Partial tumor regression was observed in 6 of 8 patients with superficial tumors.
• No tumor regression was noted in the two patients with deep bladder tumors.

Impact:

• Hyperthermic perfusion with peplomycin shows promise for superficial bladder tumors.
• Further research is needed to optimize treatment for deep bladder tumors.
• Patient-reported side effects included bladder discomfort, but no cases of acute pyelonephritis were observed.