DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically confirmed, pathologically verified, disseminated stage IV melanoma that is surgically incurable Any T, any N, M1a or M1b Must have received at least one prior chemotherapy, biologic/immunotherapy, or combination regimen for metastatic disease At least 4 weeks since prior systemic therapy Bidimensionally measurable disease by physical exam, CT scan, radionuclide scan, or plain x-ray outside previously irradiated area No brain metastases by MRI or CT scan (except completely resected brain tumors that have undergone whole brain radiotherapy)

PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS: Age: Not specified Performance status: SWOG 0-2 Life expectancy: Not specified Hematopoietic: Not specified Hepatic: Not specified Renal: Not specified Other: HIV negative Not pregnant or nursing Fertile patients must use effective contraception No other prior malignancy within the past 5 years, except: Adequately treated basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer Adequately treated stage I or II cancer Carcinoma in situ of the cervix

PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 4 weeks since prior adjuvant biologic or immunotherapy Chemotherapy: See Disease Characteristics No prior adjuvant chemotherapy Endocrine therapy: Not specified Radiotherapy: At least 4 weeks since prior radiotherapy Surgery: At least 4 weeks since prior surgery