The Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) released the following statements from MRA Chief Science Officer Joan Levy, PhD and MRA Chief Executive Officer Marc Hurlbert, PhD on the Food & Drug Administration approval of Hepzato Kit for patients with uveal melanoma with liver metastases that cannot be surgically removed.

MRA Chief Science Officer Joan Levy, PhD: “This novel therapy delivers a chemotherapy drug directly to the liver and addresses an important unmet need for patients with uveal melanoma that has spread to the liver, the predominant organ of metastasis. Further, it showcases the ingenuity and dedication of melanoma researchers who contributed towards its development and patients who participated in clinical trials testing this unique treatment approach. It’s proof that we can develop meaningful therapies for patients with rare diseases that can improve patient survival and quality of life.”

MRA Chief Executive Officer Marc Hurlbert, PhD: "The approval of Hepzato Kit is the 16th treatment to earn FDA approval for melanoma since 2011 and the second approval specifically in uveal melanoma. This is an important advancement for patients with this rare and aggressive form of melanoma and offers hope to those who have been diagnosed. Today’s action reminds patients facing rare melanoma that they aren’t being left behind."

This blog was published by the Melanoma Research Alliance on August 16, 2023. It is republished with permission.