What's Happening?
Delcath Systems, Inc. has presented new data at the ESMO Breast Cancer Congress 2026 on the use of percutaneous hepatic perfusion with melphalan (M-PHP) for treating liver-dominant metastatic breast cancer. The retrospective analysis involved 15 patients
and evaluated the feasibility, safety, and tumor response of the treatment. The study found that 60% of patients achieved a hepatic partial response, with a median overall survival of 6 months. The treatment was associated with significant adverse events, including bone marrow suppression and neutropenic-related infections, but these were typically resolved within a week.
Why It's Important?
The findings from this study provide real-world evidence supporting the use of M-PHP in treating liver-dominant metastatic breast cancer, a condition that poses significant clinical challenges. The ability to deliver high-dose chemotherapy directly to the liver while minimizing systemic exposure could offer a new therapeutic option for patients with limited treatment alternatives. This approach may improve patient outcomes by targeting liver metastases more effectively, potentially extending survival and enhancing quality of life.
What's Next?
Delcath Systems plans to continue evaluating the HEPZATO KIT and CHEMOSAT systems in ongoing clinical trials. The company is conducting a randomized Phase 2 trial to further assess the efficacy and safety of M-PHP in metastatic breast cancer patients with liver-dominant disease. The results of these trials will be critical in determining the future clinical application of this treatment and its potential approval for broader use.
