Chemosensitivity of human melanoma metastases in mouse subrenal capsule assay--can it predict tumour response to combined cytostatic plus interferon therapy in metastatic melanoma?

Abstract

We have analysed the chemosensitivity of 121 human melanoma metastases in the 6-day mouse subrenal capsule assay (SRCA). A total of 13 different chemotherapy regimens were analysed in four successive series. By the original criteria of the assay, 75% of tumours were sensitive to at least one regimen. The most effective combinations, giving sensitivity rates > 40%, were of dacarbazine, vincristine, and BCNU (DOB) with or without metronidazole, followed by cisplatin plus etoposide (Plat-VP16) combined with interferon. On the basis of the SRCA screening we developed a four-drug chemotherapy regimen combined with interferon for metastatic melanoma. Retrospectively analysed the assay correctly identified 77% of clinical responders and 54% of clinical non-responders. The overall predictive accuracy was 65%. Despite the limitations of the assay, it can be used for screening new drugs or combinations.