Diagnostic imaging of gynecologic tumors with the monoclonal antibody 791T/36.

One hundred twenty-three patients with suspected primary or recurrent gynecologic cancer were imaged after infusion with radiolabeled antitumor monoclonal antibody (791T/36). Overall sensitivity of tumor detection was 87% and specificity was 75%. Indium 111- and iodine 131-labeled antibody were compared, the former yielding a higher specificity for tumor detection. This antibody shows potential for routine tumor detection, particularly in cases of suspected recurrent cancer, but the development of antimouse antibodies is a drawback to this technique still to be overcome. The specific targeting of cytotoxic agents with this antibody is in progress.