Desmoid tumors: experience with new modes of therapy.

The oncology group at Tulane has been instrumental in the development of isolated regional perfusion techniques for treatment of melanomas. The perfusion is usually accompanied by wide excision. Our success encouraged similar attempts with persistent, widely invasive desmoid tumors. We used regional chemotherapy in conjunction with wide excision in four cases. Neither the technique nor combination chemotherapy has been used previously against desmoid tumors. Tumor response occurred with nitrogen mustard and with combinations of actinomycin D, thiotepa, and methotrexate. Additionally, one apparent response followed testolactone and chlorothiazide therapy.