Squamous cell carcinoma of the big toe successfully treated by intra-arterial infusion with methotrexate.
BACKGROUND
For preservation of integrity of appearance and function in a 57-year-old male with a squamous cell carcinoma of his left big toe who had refused amputation, intra-arterial infusion with methotrexate was used.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of arterial infusion with methotrexate in this uncommon big toe cancer.


METHODS
Left external iliac arterial catheterization and infusion with methotrexate (50 mg) were used every 24 hours plus simultaneous intramuscular injection of 6 mg of leucovorin every 6 hours for 8 days.


RESULTS
At 7 years and 3 months after therapy, the patient was in sustained complete remission with a functionally normal left foot.


CONCLUSIONS
This case study suggests that intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy is a simple and effective method for big toe squamous cell carcinoma with the unique advantage of preservation of organ and function. It can be considered as an effective alternative treatment.
Sheen
Yi-Shuan
YS
Departments of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, 100 Shih Chuan 1st Road, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Sheen
Maw-Chang
MC
Sheu
Hamm-Ming
HM
Yang
Sheau-Fang
SF
Wang
Yi-Wen
YW
D000964:Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006214:Hallux; D006801:Humans; D007261:Infusions, Intra-Arterial; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D002955:Leucovorin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D008297:Male; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000964:Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic; D002955:Leucovorin; D008727:Methotrexate