Localization of radioiodinated monoclonal antibody in colorectal cancer. Initial dosimetry results.

HT-29-15 is an IgG1 monoclonal antibody reacting with a neuraminidase-sensitive determinant on a cell-surface antigen (molecular weight, 200,000 daltons) present on the colon cancer cell line HT-29. HT-29-15 was selected for a tumor localization study because the antigen was shown to be present, by immunohistochemical staining, in a high percentage of primary and metastatic colorectal cancers. HT-29-15 labeled with iodine 131 was given intravenously over a dose range of 0.2 to 10.0 mg to 23 patients with colorectal cancer. No significant toxicity was seen. Imaging of hepatic metastases was successful from days 5 to 7. Analysis of tissue radioactivity by biopsy showed that the tumor-liver ratio increased from day 1 to day 7, suggesting more rapid clearance of antibody from normal tissue than from tumor. Thus, tissue biopsy specimens and scintigraphy have shown that imaging of metastatic colorectal cancer is possible with monoclonal antibody HT-29-15. Tissue biopsy specimens are essential for demonstrating specificity of localization. Scans alone provide insufficient evidence of specific localization by monoclonal antibodies. Simultaneous infusion of a nonreactive control antibody would be necessary for specific localization to be demonstrated unequivocally.