The HonorHealth Research Institute has become a pioneer in the fight against metastatic uveal melanoma, now offering a groundbreaking treatment that targets liver metastases. This marks the first instance of such a treatment being available in Arizona and places HonorHealth among a select few facilities nationwide providing this therapy.
Uveal melanoma, a rare form of cancer, originates in the pigmented cells at the back of the eye. When it metastasizes, the liver is typically the primary site of spread. Historically, patients with metastatic uveal melanoma faced limited treatment options and poor prognoses.
The new therapy, known as the HEPZATO KIT, utilizes a well-established chemotherapy drug developed in the 1960s. While this drug has proven effective, its use has been constrained by significant side effects. HEPZATO offers a novel approach by delivering the chemotherapy directly to the liver, minimizing systemic exposure and associated toxicity.
Dr. Justin Moser, an associate clinical investigator in the Oncology Research Division, highlighted the challenge of treating uveal melanoma due to its tendency to metastasize to the liver. He noted that prior to this treatment, patients had few viable options.
The HEPZATO treatment involves isolating the liver’s blood supply, administering a 30-minute high-dose infusion of melphalan to saturate the liver, and subsequently conducting a washout period. During this phase, specialized filters remove over 80% of the medication before the blood is returned to the patient, significantly reducing exposure to other body parts.
Melphalan, which gained FDA approval in 1964, works by causing rapid and irreversible DNA damage in cancer cells, leading to their death. Initial trials indicate a promising response rate, with more than one in three patients benefiting from the treatment.
The success of the HEPZATO procedure relies on a highly skilled team, including an interventional radiologist who oversees the vascular intervention, a perfusionist to manage the blood isolation device, and an anesthesiologist to ensure patient comfort and safety. Collaboration with the hospital pharmacy, blood bank, and intensive care unit is also integral to the treatment process.
Due to the limited systemic exposure associated with HEPZATO, many patients are able to leave the hospital the day following their treatment. The protocol allows for up to six sessions, administered every six to eight weeks.
The first patient in Arizona received HEPZATO treatment at HonorHealth in late July, under the supervision of Dr. Jason Low, an interventional radiology specialist. Dr. Low expressed his gratitude for being part of this innovative cancer therapy, stating that it has been fulfilling to positively impact patients’ lives with advanced treatment options.
“I am really lucky to have such an amazing team here at HonorHealth that allows us to provide such great care. We are truly invigorating health care,” Dr. Low remarked.
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