Endolymphatic infusion of I-131 in the treatment of malignant melanoma: early experiences

The endolymphatic administration of radioactive material seems particularly applicable in malignant melanomata in which spread to regional lymph nodes occurs early and consistently. The treatment is prophylactic and is aimed at destroying small metastases at an early stage. The material used is I131 in ultra-fluid Lipiodol and a dose of about 45 mC is administered in 4 to 5 ml. The infusion infiltrates not only the inguinal nodes but also the iliac and para-aortic groups. Seventeen patients have been treated in this way but the follow-up time is still too short to assess the final clinical results. Complications have been less than expected and include transient lymphoedema, a variable uptake of I131 in the lungs and skin necrosis from leakage of the isotope in two instances.