Liposome encapsulated doxorubicin transfer to the pelvic lymph nodes by endoscopic administration into the bladder wall: a preliminary report.

Abstract

Liposome encapsulated doxorubicin administered to the pelvic lymph nodes might be effective against pelvic node metastasis. We determined whether the drug can be delivered to the nodes via the bladder wall. Ten patients underwent endoscopic administration of 10 mg. liposomal doxorubicin into the bladder wall 3 days before cystectomy. The concentration of doxorubicin in the pelvic lymph nodes obtained at operation was measured. No complication developed after drug administration. Almost all lymph nodes examined contained more than 100 ng./gm. doxorubicin (median 1,860). Endoscopic administration of liposomal doxorubicin into the bladder wall may be an alternative method to deliver doxorubicin to the pelvic lymph nodes.