Northwestern doctors successfully treat metastatic eye cancer directly targeting the liver

In the United States, Northwestern Medicine announced a groundbreaking treatment for metastatic eye cancer on April 3, 2025. This innovative approach specifically targets cancerous tumors in the liver, particularly for patients suffering from uveal melanoma, a rare form of eye cancer. Bozena Wojtach, at 66 years old, became the first patient to undergo this new treatment method, utilizing the Hepzato Kit that delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver, enhancing its effectiveness and reducing systemic side effects. The procedure required skilled interventional radiologists to place small tubes which isolate the liver's blood supply before administering chemotherapy for approximately thirty minutes. Uveal melanoma is notorious for its metastasis, often spreading to the liver, which poses significant treatment challenges. In Wojtach's case, after noticing worrying symptoms in her vision, she sought medical attention and was diagnosed by Northwestern Medicine’s Dr. Randy Christopher Bowen. Despite having undergone successful proton therapy for the ocular tumor, the worrisome development of liver metastases necessitated this new treatment option. The medical team opined that shrinking the liver tumors could extend patients' survival and potentially improve their quality of life, a notably crucial aspect of cancer care. Following the procedures involving the Hepzato Kit, Wojtach reported remarkable improvements, stating she experienced no pain, nausea, or vomiting, unlike many patients undergoing traditional treatments. This enhancement of quality of life is particularly significant given the aggressive nature of uveal melanoma, highlighting the potential of localized chemotherapy as a viable alternative for managing advanced cases. Doctors have advised her to continue with several additional treatment cycles to further combat the cancer's progression, indicating a commitment to leveraging innovative methods to empower patient outcomes. The successful implementation of the Hepzato Kit at Northwestern Medicine marks a promising advancement in oncology, where innovative treatments can provide new hope for cancer patients battling difficult to treat forms of the disease. The overall strategy of isolating the liver during treatment exemplifies a sophisticated approach in modern medicine that could inspire further developments in localized cancer therapies. With promising results from her initial treatment cycle, Wojtach is optimistic about resuming her passions in life, including travel, gardening, and family engagement, substantially motivated by her doctors’ enthusiasm about the therapy’s impact on her prognosis.