Clinical trials for solid tumors using electrochemotherapy.

Chemotherapy is a standard treatment for a wide variety of cancers. However, response rates are usually low. In melanoma, for example, partial response rates range from 20-45 % with complete responses of less than 5% (1-4). The cell membrane can be a significant barrier for agents with an intracellular site of action. The inability to cross the cell membrane and enter the cell could lead to a low response rate. The effectiveness of these agents could be enhanced if combined with a procedure that increases the permeability of the cell membrane.