Chemoembolization with doxorubicin-eluting beads for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: five-year survival analysis. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 2012;35:1119-1128. [PMID: 22614031 DOI: 10.1007/s00270-012-0394-0]

RALOX-HAIC (raltitrexed + oxaliplatin) combined with lenvatinib improves survival and safety in elderly patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

To explore the efficacy and safety of RALOX-HAIC (raltitrexed plus oxaliplatin) combined with lenvatinib in the treatment of elderly patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC), aiming to provide a safer and more effective therapeutic strategy for this patient population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 82 elderly patients with uHCC who received treatment in the Department of Interventional Radiology at Wuhan Union Hospital from January 2019 to December 2022. Patients were divided into two groups based on their treatment strategy: HAIC + Lenvatinib group (N = 39) and TACE group (N = 43). The primary endpoints were the objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) in the two groups. The secondary endpoint was the incidence of treatment-related adverse events in both groups.

RESULTS

The ORR and DCR after treatment were higher in the HAIC + Lenvatinib group compared to the TACE group (61.5% vs. 37.2%, 82.1% vs. 58.1%, P < 0.05). The HAIC + Lenvatinib group had a longer median progression-free survival (mPFS,9.2 months vs. 4.6 months, P < 0.001) and ​median overall survival(mOS, 18.1 months vs. 10.6 months, P < 0.001) compared to the TACE group. The incidence of abdominal pain and fever was significantly higher in the TACE group than in the HAIC + Lenvatinib group (including all grades and grades 3/4, P < 0.05). The incidence of hand-foot syndrome (all grades) was higher in the HAIC + Lenvatinib group compared to the TACE group (15.4% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.009), but there was no significant difference in the incidence of grade 3/4 hand-foot syndrome between the two groups (2.6% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.476).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that RALOX-HAIC combined with lenvatinib provides superior survival outcomes and tolerability compared to TACE alone ​in elderly patients (≥ 70 years) with unresectable HCC. This combination therapy may be a feasible and safe option for improving the prognosis of elderly patients with uHCC.

Iodine-131 radioembolization boosts the immune activation enhanced by icaritin/resiquimod in hepatocellular carcinoma

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) is a recommended locoregional strategy for intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), whereas, the effect is insufficient to reverse the immunosuppression tumor microenvironment, and the overall benefits for patients remain to be improved. In this study, a multifunctional microsphere (MS) 131I-ICT/R848-MS is developed to propose an approach combined with TARE, icaritin (ICT) and immune modulator resiquimod (R848). ICT and iodine-131 (131I) radiation can induce immunogenic cell death, which, in combination with R848, will boost dendritic cell (DC) maturation. Decellularized liver model and SPECT/CT imaging revealed high specificity and long retention of microspheres. Radioactive distribution of 131I in tumor on 7 d following 131I-MS injection was over 7 times of that in normal liver tissue (4.26 ± 1.21 % ID/g vs 0.57 ± 0.23 % ID/g). 131I-ICT/R848-MS embolization brought significant immune activation, where the ratio of cytotoxic T lymphocytes to regulatory T cells in tumor sites upregulated from 1.75 ± 0.20 to 24.31 ± 1.79, and DC maturation in lymph nodes increased from 8.90 ± 1.51 % to 34.70 ± 3.12 %. Enhanced anti-tumor efficacy with no relapse was proved in rat orthotopic N1S1 HCC models. These results demonstrated the great potential of this multifunctional embolic agent to treat HCC through transarterial radio-immuno-chemoembolization (TARICE).

Nomogram model based on γ-glutamyl transferase to albumin ratio predicts survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with transarterial chemoembolization treatment

BACKGROUND

The development of tumor is closely linked to inflammation. Therefore, targeting molecules involved in inflammation may be effective in predicting cancer prognosis. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) holds significant therapeutic significance in addressing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). At present, no studies have evaluated the predictive value of γ-glutamyl transferase to albumin ratio (GAR) on the prognosis of HCC undergoing TACE.

AIM

To explore the potential prognostic significance of the GAR in individuals undergoing TACE for HCC.

METHODS

A total of 1231 patients from seven hospitals in China were randomized into a training cohort (n = 862) and a validation cohort (n = 369). To establish independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS), we utilized multivariate and univariate Cox regression models. The best cut-off value of the GAR was determined with the X-tile software, with OS as the basis. Validations were performed using dual therapy cohort and triple therapy cohort.

RESULTS

X-tile software revealed a GAR threshold of 4.75 as optimal. Both pre- and post-propensity score matching analyses demonstrated that the median OS in the low-GAR group (< 4.75) was notably longer compared to the high-GAR group (≥ 4.75), showing results of 26.9 vs 9.8 months (P < 0.001) initially, and 18.1 vs 11.3 months (P < 0.001) after match. Furthermore, multivariate analysis identified GAR ≥ 4.75 as an independent prognostic factor (P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curves for the nomogram showed area under receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.741, 0.747, and 0.708 for predicting 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival, respectively. Consistent findings were reiterated in the two cohorts involving TACE in combination with targeted therapy and TACE in combination with targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Calibration curve and decision curve analyses substantiated the model's relatively robust predictive capabilities.

CONCLUSION

Our study validates the effective prognostic capacity of the GAR-based nomogram for HCC patients undergoing TACE or TACE in combination with systemic therapy.

Hypoxia as a Target for Combination with Transarterial Chemoembolization in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hypoxia is a hallmark of solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hypoxia has proven to be involved in multiple tumor biological processes and associated with malignant progression and resistance to therapy. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a well-established locoregional therapy for patients with unresectable HCC. However, TACE-induced hypoxia regulates tumor angiogenesis, energy metabolism, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and immune processes through hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1), which may have adverse effects on the therapeutic efficacy of TACE. Hypoxia has emerged as a promising target for combination with TACE in the treatment of HCC. This review summarizes the impact of hypoxia on HCC tumor biology and the adverse effects of TACE-induced hypoxia on its therapeutic efficacy, highlighting the therapeutic potential of hypoxia-targeted therapy in combination with TACE for HCC.

Tumor diameter and enhancing capsule, as well as previous interventional treatments, as potential predictors of vascular lake phenomenon in hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with drug-eluting beads transarterial chemoembolization

Objectives

The initial drug-eluting bead (DEB)-transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) are often performed after multiple sessions of transarterial infusion chemotherapy (TAI) or conventional TACE. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the factors associated with the occurrence of vascular lake phenomenon (VLP) during DEB-TACE, considering the previous interventional treatments.

Material and Methods

Forty-nine initial DEB-TACE procedures in 49 patients between November 2010 and April 2024 were included in this retrospective study. VLP was defined as a localized pooling of contrast agents within the tumor in the venous phase of digital subtraction angiography. The laboratory data, pre-treatment imaging findings such as the maximum tumor diameter (≥3 cm or <3 cm) and the presence of enhancing capsule obtained from computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, size of DEBs, and loading drugs, the total number of previous interventional treatments were recorded and compared between VLP occurrence and VLP non-occurrence groups. The multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association of factors in predicting VLP occurrence.

Results

VLP was observed in 16 patients (32.65%) out of 49 patients. The maximum tumor diameter (≥3 cm) and the presence of the enhancing capsule were significantly higher, and the total number of previous interventional treatments was significantly smaller in the VLP occurrence group than in the VLP non-occurrence group (P = 0.0006, 0.0007, and 0.0003). In multivariate analysis, the maximum tumor diameter, the presence of the enhancing capsule, and the total number of previous interventional treatments were significantly associated with the occurrence of VLP (P = 0.0048, 0.0093, and 0.047).

Conclusion

Our study confirmed that the reported risk factor, the maximum tumor diameter, and the enhancing capsule were significantly related to the occurrence of VLP in DEB-TACE. Further, the occurrence of VLP might be carefully considered when the number of previous interventional treatments is small.

Transarterial Chemoembolization Treatment Paradigms for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of liver cancer cases worldwide and is currently the most quickly increasing cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The 5-year survival rate for primary liver cancer is estimated to be below 20%, and HCC mortality is expected to increase by 41% by 2040. Currently, surgical resection is the first-line approach to definitive treatment of early-stage HCC. However, the majority of patients present with late-stage, unresectable disease due to the asymptomatic nature of early HCC. For patients who present with unresectable HCC, locoregional therapies such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) represent an alternative approach to HCC treatment. TACE is a minimally invasive, catheter-based technique that allows for targeted delivery of chemotherapy to tumor sites while occluding tumor-feeding blood vessels. In appropriately selected patients, outcomes for TACE therapy have been shown to be more favorable than supportive care or conservative management. The increasing incidence and mortality of HCC, in addition to the late-stage presentation of most HCC patients, demonstrates the need to expand the role of locoregional therapies in the treatment of HCC. TACE represents an appealing approach to HCC management, including disease control, palliation, and potentially curative-intent strategies. In this review, we will describe the current utility of TACE in the treatment of HCC, characterize the outcomes of patients treated with TACE across different HCC stages, and outline future applications of TACE in the treatment paradigm.

Utilization of Immunotherapy as a Neoadjuvant Therapy for Liver Transplant Recipients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is widely recognized as the predominant type of primary liver malignancy. Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has emerged as a highly effective treatment option for unresectable HCC. Immunotherapies as neoadjuvant options are now being actively investigated in the transplant oncology era to enhance outcomes in patients with HCC. Here, we report our experience with patients with HCC who had received Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICPI) prior to curative OLT. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort that included patients with HCC who received ICPI prior to OLT at a single institution from January 2019 to August 2023. Graft rejection was assessed and reported along with the type of ICPI, malignancy treated, and the timing of ICPI in association with OLT. Results: During this cohort period, six patients with HCC underwent OLT after neoadjuvant ICPI. All patients were male with a median age of 61 (interquartile range: 59-64) years at OLT. Etiology associated with HCC was viral (N = 4) or Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, NASH (N = 2). Tumor focality was multifocal (N = 4) and unifocal (N = 2). Lymphovascular invasion was identified in four patients. No perineural invasion was identified in any of the patients. All patients received ICPI including atezolizumab/bevacizumab (N = 4), nivolumab/ipilimumab (N = 1), and nivolumab as monotherapy (N = 1). All patients received either single or combined liver-directed/locoregional therapy, including transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), Yttrium-90 (Y90), stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). The median washout period was 5 months. All patients responded to ICPI and achieved a safe and successful OLT. All patients received tacrolimus plus mycophenolate as immunosuppressant (IS) therapy post-OLT and one patient received prednisone as additional IS. No patient had clinical evidence of rejection. Conclusions: This cohort emphasizes the success of tumor downstaging by ICPI for OLT when employed as the neoadjuvant therapy strategy. In addition, this study illustrated the importance of timing for the administration of ICPI before OLT. Given the lack of conclusive evidence in this therapeutic area, we believe that our study lays the groundwork for prospective trials to further examine the impact of ICPI prior to OLT.

From evidence to clinical practice: Bridging the gap of new liver cancer therapies in Latin America

The most common primary liver tumors are hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. They constitute the sixth most common neoplasia and the third cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Although both tumors may share etiologic factors, diagnosis, prognostic factors, and treatments, they differ substantially in determining distinctive clinical management. In recent years, significant advances have been made in the management of these neoplasms, particularly in advanced stages. In this review, we focus on the most relevant diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment aspects of both, hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma, underlying their applicability in Latin America.

Combination of Doxorubicin and Antiangiogenic Agents in Drug-Eluting Beads: In Vitro Loading and Release Dynamics in View of a Novel Therapeutic Approach for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

PURPOSE

Antiangiogenic agents have been used for many years as a first-line systemic treatment for advanced HCC. Embolization with cytostatic drugs on the other hand is the first-line treatment for intermediate HCC. The two types of drugs have not been combined for intraarterial delivery yet. The loading and release dynamics and the in vitro effect of their combination are tested in this experimental study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Drug-eluting beads were loaded with doxorubicin, sunitinib and sunitinib analogue piperazine (SAP) alone and with their combinations. Diameter change, loading, release, and effect in cellular proliferation were assessed.

RESULTS

The average microsphere diameter after loading was 473.7 µm (μm) for Doxorubicin, 388.4 μm for Sunitinib, 515.5 μm for SAP, 414.8 μm for the combination Doxorubicin/Sunitinib and 468.8 μm for the combination Doxorubicin /SAP. Drug release in 0.9% NaCl was 10% for Doxorubicin, 49% for Sunitinib, 25% for SAP, 20%/18% for the combination Doxorubicin/Sunitinib, and 18%/23% for the combination Doxorubicin/SAP whereas in human plasma it was 56%, 27%, 13%, 76%/63% and 62%/15%, respectively. The mean concentration of Doxorubicin that led to inhibition of 50% of cellular proliferation in an HCC Huh7 cell line was 163.1 nM (nM), for Sunitinib 10.3 micromolar (μΜ), for SAP 16.7 μΜ, for Doxorubicin/Sunitinib 222.4 nM and for Doxorubicin/SAP 275 nM.

CONCLUSIONS

Doxorubicin may be combined with antiangiogenic drugs with satisfactory in vitro loading and release outcomes and effect on cellular lines.

A refined prediction model for survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with transarterial chemoembolization

Background/Aims

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is widely performed as a major treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, and there is a need to stratify patients for whom the most benefit from the treatment. This study aimed to develop a refined prediction model for overall survival (OS) in patients undergoing TACE as a first-line treatment in a large cohort and validate its performance.

Methods

A total of 2,632 patients with HCC of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage A or B who underwent TACE between 2008 and 2017 were enrolled. The patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort (n = 1,304) or a validation cohort (n = 1,328). Independent predictors of OS were used to develop a prediction model.

Results

The median age of patients in the entire cohort was 63 years, with the majority having hepatitis B virus (56.6%) and being classified as Child-Pugh class A (82.4%). We developed a new prognostic model, called the TACE-prognostic (TP) score, based on tumor burden (sum of the largest tumor diameter and tumor number), alpha-fetoprotein, and Albumin-Bilirubin grade. Patients were classified into five risk groups according to TP scores, with median survival significantly differentiated in both training and validation cohorts (P < 0.001). The new model consistently outperformed other currently available models in both the training and validation cohorts.

Conclusion

This newly developed TP scoring system has the potential to be a useful tool in identifying ideal candidates of TACE and predicting OS with favorable performance and discrimination. However, further external validation is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Intermediate-stage (BCLC stage B) infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma: safety and efficacy of chemoembolization

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of chemoembolization in patients with intermediate-stage infiltrative Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated outcomes in treatment-naïve patients who received chemoembolization as first-line treatment for intermediate-stage infiltrative HCC between 2002 and 2022. Of the 2029 treatment-naïve patients who received chemoembolization as first-line treatment for intermediate-stage HCC, 244 (12%) were identified as having the infiltrative type. After excluding two patients lost to follow-up, 242 patients were evaluated.

RESULTS

Median post-chemoembolization overall survival (OS) was 16 months. Multivariable Cox analysis identified four factors predictive of OS: Child-Pugh class B (hazard ratio [HR], 1.84; p = 0.001), maximal tumor size ≥ 10 cm (HR, 1.67; p < 0.001), tumor number ≥ 4 (HR, 1.42; p = 0.037), and bilobar tumor involvement (HR, 1.64; p = 0.003). These four factors were used to create pretreatment prediction models, with risk scores of 0-1, 2-4, and 5-7 defined as low, intermediate, and high risk, respectively. Median OS times in these three groups were 34, 18, and 8 months, respectively (p < 0.001). The objective tumor response rate following chemoembolization was 53%. The major complication rate was 9% overall and was significantly higher in the high-risk group (22%) than in the low (2%) and intermediate (3%) risk groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Chemoembolization is safe and effective in selected patients with intermediate-stage infiltrative HCC. Chemoembolization is not recommended in high-risk patients with intermediate-stage infiltrative HCC because of poor OS and high rates of major complications.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

A pretreatment prediction model was developed using four risk factors associated with overall survival following chemoembolization for intermediate-stage infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma. This model may provide valuable information for clinical decision-making.

KEY POINTS

• Four risk factors (Child-Pugh score B, maximal tumor size ≥ 10 cm, tumor number ≥ 4, and bilobar tumor involvement) were used to create pretreatment prediction models, with risk scores of 0-1, 2-4, and 5-7 defined as low, intermediate, and high risk, respectively. • Median overall survival (OS) times and major complication rate in these three groups were 34, 18, and 8 months, and 2%, 3%, and 22%, respectively (p < 0.001). Chemoembolization is not recommended in high-risk patients with intermediate-stage infiltrative Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) because of poor OS and high rates of major complications.

In Vitro Characterization of Drug-Loaded Superabsorbent Polymer Microspheres: Absorption and Release Capacity of Contrast Material, Antibiotics and Analgesics

PURPOSE

To examine the characteristics of drug-loaded superabsorbent polymer microspheres (SAP-MS) such as drug absorption, drug release, diameter, and visibility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SAP-MS (HepaSphere150-200 µm; Merit Medical, South Jordan, UT, USA) were suspended in drug solutions: (a) cefazolin, (b) lidocaine, (c) iopamidol and cefazolin, (d) iopamidol and lidocaine, and (e) iopamidol, cefazolin, and lidocaine. The concentrations of drugs were measured, and the amount of each drug absorbed was calculated. Filtered drug-loaded SAP-MS were mixed with saline, and the drug release rates were calculated. The diameter changes of SAP-MS during absorption were observed. Radiography of drug-loaded SAP-MS was evaluated as radiopacity by contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR).

RESULTS

The drug concentration did not change during absorption. The release rates increased for 10 min and then came to an equilibrium. The mean amounts of drug absorbed at 180 min and mean release rates at 24 h were (a) cefazolin: 265.4 mg, 64.2%; (b) lidocaine: 19.6 mg, 75.6%; (c) iopamidol: 830.2 mg, 22.5%; cefazolin: 137.6 mg, 21.2%; (d) iopamidol: 1620.6 mg, 78.5%; lidocaine: 13.5 mg, 81.4%; and (e) iopamidol: 643.7 mg, 52.9%; cefazolin: 194.0 mg, 51.6%; lidocaine: 5.3 mg, 58.4%. The diameter of SAP-MS increased for approximately 15 min. Finally, the diameters of SAP-MS were (a) 3.9 times, (b) 5.0 times, (c) 2.2 times, (d) 5.5 times, and (e) 3.6 times larger than the original size. Drug-loaded SAP-MS containing iopamidol were visible under X-ray imaging, with CNRs of (c) 3.0, (d) 9.0, and (e) 4.5.

CONCLUSION

SAP-MS can absorb and release iopamidol, cefazolin, and lidocaine.

Drug-eluting beads versus conventional transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) consists of conventional TACE (cTACE) and drug-eluting beads TACE (DEB-TACE). The benefits of the 2 treatments remain controversial. We conduct this meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of the 2 methods for the patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

In order to get a sound conclusion, we did thorough search all relevant studies with clear and stringent keyword criteria on the main databases. Objective tumor response rate, overall survival (OS) rate and adverse events were calculated and analyzed by RevMan 5.3 software. The random-effects or fixed-effects model was applied to pool the estimates according to Cochran Q test and I2 statistics.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies involving 2987 patients were eligible. DEB-TACE significantly improved objective tumor response rate (OR) (risk ratio [RR] = 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.08, 1.48]; P = .003). While as for 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 5-year OS rates, there were no evidences to indicate that DEB-TACE was significantly better than cTACE (RR = 1.05, 95% CI [0.99, 1.11]; P = .08), (RR = 1.02, 95% CI [0.93, 1.11]; P = .68), (RR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.77, 1.10]; P = .37), (RR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.47, 1.80]; P = .81), respectively. Adverse events rate (AE) was also similar in both groups (RR = 1.11, 95% CI [0.99,1.26]; P = .08).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates that DEB-TACE is not superior than cTACE regarding to OS and AE. However, DEB-TACE still be considered to provide a better objective tumor response rate for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Prognosis of Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Transarterial Chemoembolization(MC-hccAI 001): Development and Validation of the ALFP Score

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the recommended first-line treatment for intermediate-stage Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. However, predicting the survival of HCC patients receiving TACE remains challenging.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we analyzed a total of 1805 HCC patients who received TACE. The patients were randomly divided into a training set (n = 1264) and a validation set (n = 541). We examined various prognostic factors within the training set and developed a simple ALFP (ALBI grade, AFP, and Prothrombin time) score, which was subsequently validated using the independent validation set.

Results

Our multivariate analysis revealed that baseline ALBI grade 2 or 3, AFP ≥ 100 ng/mL, and PT > 13.1 s were independent unfavorable prognostic factors for HCC patients receiving TACE (p < 0.05). Based on these findings, we constructed the ALFP score, which assigns 1 point each for ALBI grade 2 or 3, AFP ≥ 100 ng/mL, and PT > 13.1 s. The score has a range of 0 to 3, and higher scores are associated with poorer outcomes. The median overall survival (OS) varied significantly among different ALFP score groups, both in the training set and the validation set (p < 0.001). We further examined the ALFP score in subgroups based on tumor diameter and the number of intrahepatic lesions. In each subgroup, higher ALFP scores were consistently associated with lower OS (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study confirms the prognostic value of the ALFP score in predicting the survival of HCC patients undergoing TACE. The score incorporates easily obtainable baseline parameters and provides a simple and practical tool for risk stratification and treatment decision-making in HCC patients.

A rapidly evolving landscape: immune checkpoint inhibitors in pretreated metastatic endometrial cancer

Background and objectives

Endometrial cancer is a common malignancy and recurrences can be fatal. Although platinum-pretreated endometrial tumors are commonly treated with anthracyclines and taxanes, there is no current standard of care. Both immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been extensively assessed in this setting, including tumors selected for DNA mismatch repair (MMR)/microsatellite instability (MSI) and programmed death-ligand 1 expression status. This review will provide evidence-based guidance on use of ICIs alone or in combination with TKIs in patients with pretreated advanced, persistent, or recurrent metastatic endometrial cancer.

Data sources and methods

Randomized phase II-III trials in unselected populations pretreated, recurrent, or metastatic endometrial cancer and phase I-II trials in biomarker selected populations were identified from PubMed as well as conference proceedings using the key search terms 'immune checkpoint inhibitors', 'endometrial cancer', and 'advanced'.

Results

A total of nine eligible studies were identified assessing ICI monotherapy for biomarker-selected or ICI plus TKI combinations and a dual ICI regimen for biomarker-unselected patients with pretreated recurrent or metastatic endometrial cancer. In MMR/MSI-selected tumors, five phase I/II studies evaluated ICI monotherapy indicating benefit in these patients. Only the phase III KEYNOTE-775 trial reported a statistically significant overall survival improvement for the combination of pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib compared with docetaxel or paclitaxel regardless of MMR/MSI status.

Conclusions

Pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib is indicated for patients with unselected pretreated metastatic endometrial cancer and pembrolizumab monotherapy is a preferred option for patients with MMRd/MSI-H tumors.

Clinical consensus statement: Establishing the roles of locoregional and systemic therapies for the treatment of intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma in Canada

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide and approximately one-third of patients present with intermediate-stage disease. The treatment landscape of intermediate-stage HCC is rapidly evolving due to developments in local, locoregional and systemic therapies. Treatment recommendations focused on this heterogenous disease stage and that take into account the Canadian reality are lacking. To address this gap, a pan-Canadian group of experts in hepatology, transplant, surgery, radiation therapy, nuclear medicine, interventional radiology, and medical oncology came together to develop consensus recommendations on management of intermediate-stage HCC relevant to the Canadian context.

METHODS

A modified Delphi framework was used to develop consensus statements with strengths of recommendation and supporting levels of evidence graded using the AHA/ACC classification system. Tentative consensus statements were drafted based on a systematic search and expert input in a series of iterative feedback cycles and were then circulated via online survey to assess the level of agreement.

RESULTS & CONCLUSION

The pre-defined ratification threshold of 80 % agreement was reached for all statements in the areas of multidisciplinary treatment (n = 4), intra-arterial therapy (n = 14), biologics (n = 5), radiation therapy (n = 3), surgical resection and transplantation (n = 7), and percutaneous ablative therapy (n = 4). These generally reflected an expansion in treatment options due to developments in previously established or emergent techniques, introduction of new and more active therapies and increased therapeutic flexibility. These developments have allowed for greater treatment tailoring and personalization as well as a paradigm shift toward strategies with curative intent in a wider range of disease settings.

Safety, Efficacy and Distribution of Doxorubicin Loaded Radiopaque Beads in Chemoembolization in Intermediate Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) with Correlation with Local Response

PURPOSE

The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate safety, and efficacy of Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) using doxorubicin-loaded radiopaque microspheres (DC Bead LUMI™) for the treatment of early and intermediate stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) not amenable for curative treatments. Distribution of the microspheres was correlated with results post embolization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, single arm, open label study. The primary outcome measures were distribution of the radiopaque microspheres as showed by computerized tomography (CT) and local response measured by modified Response Evaluation Criteria (mRECIST) after Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Secondary measures were Time to Progression (TTP) and Overall Survival (OS).

RESULTS

Fifty patients were enrolled over 36 months. Median age was 69.0 years; mean sum of target lesions diameters was 78.6 ± 36.8 mm. There were no Grade 4 or 5 adverse events (AEs). At 6 months Complete Response (CR) (18%), Partial Response (PR) (62%), Objective Response OR (80%) and Stable Disease (SD) (20%) were recorded. Before embolization, Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI) showed high signal (restricted diffusion). Post procedure, patients with dense deposition (< 5 mm distance of microsphere aggregations) showed 100% absence of enhancement and no restriction in 30.6%. Median TTP was 8.3 months. TTP for patients with CR was 13.3 months and 7.2 and 5.6 for PR and SD, respectively. At 6 and 36 months, survival was 94% and 34%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

DC Bead LUMI™ is well tolerated and effective in early and intermediate stage HCC with maximal necrosis obtained in dense deposition in the target.

2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

Nanomedicine-boosting icaritin-based immunotherapy of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

Traditional treatments for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), such as surgical resection, transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, and chemotherapy are unsatisfactory, and therefore the exploration of powerful therapeutic strategies is urgently needed. Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for advanced HCC treatment due to its minimal side effects and long-lasting therapeutic memory effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that icaritin could serve as an immunomodulator for effective immunotherapy of advanced HCC. Encouragingly, in 2022, icaritin soft capsules were approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China for the immunotherapy of advanced HCC. However, the therapeutic efficacy of icaritin in clinical practice is impaired by its poor bioavailability and unfavorable in vivo delivery efficiency. Recently, functionalized drug delivery systems including stimuli-responsive nanocarriers, cell membrane-coated nanocarriers, and living cell-nanocarrier systems have been designed to overcome the shortcomings of drugs, including the low bioavailability and limited delivery efficiency as well as side effects. Taken together, the development of icaritin-based nanomedicines is expected to further improve the immunotherapy of advanced HCC. Herein, we compared the different preparation methods for icaritin, interpreted the HCC immune microenvironment and the mechanisms underlying icaritin for treatment of advanced HCC, and discussed both the design of icaritin-based nanomedicines with high icaritin loading and the latest progress in icaritin-based nanomedicines for advanced HCC immunotherapy. Finally, the prospects to promote further clinical translation of icaritin-based nanomedicines for the immunotherapy of advanced HCC were proposed.

2022 KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of drug-eluting beads and conventional transarterial chemoembolization in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

Objective

To conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of drug-eluting beads transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) and conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (cTACE) for first-line treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system.

Methods

Based on the real-world clinical data of HCC patients receiving interventional therapy, a partitioned survival model was constructed for cost-effectiveness analysis. The model period is 1 month, and the research time limit is 10 years. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) is used as the evaluation index. One-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were used to analyze the uncertainty of parameters to test the stability of the model results.

Results

The ICER of the DEB-TACE group was 11,875.62 $/QALYs, which was lower than the willingness to pay threshold (WTP) of 31,499.23 $/QALYs. One-way sensitivity analysis suggested that the utility value of progression-free survival (PFS) in the DEB-TACE group had the greatest impact. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that at the level of WTP of 31,499.23 $/QALYs, DEB-TACE had a cost-effective probability of 92%.

Conclusion

Under the current economic level in my country, DEB-TACE is more cost-effective than cTACE in the treatment of HCC patients.

Spinal Cord Infarction After Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is an effective treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is considered relatively safe. However, fatal complications such as pulmonary edema and liver abscesses can occur. Spinal infarction due to local embolism of the central nervous system after TACE is a very rare, but fatal complication. Here, we report a case of spinal cord infarction after TACE for ruptured HCC. Paraplegia occurred at the T10 sensory level 6 hours after the procedure. The patient received steroid megadose therapy but died 5 days later due to exacerbation of metabolic acidosis and blood loss. This case demonstrates the need for a comprehensive and extensive study of arterial blood flow prior to angiography.

2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

Paradigm shift in the treatment options of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is prevalent worldwide with suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. The advancement of therapeutic options and the development of new systemic therapies expand the armamentarium to tackle HCC. Treatment options should be provided based on the hierarchy of efficacy in a multidisciplinary perspective, instead of the traditional stage-guided scheme. In advanced HCC, lenvatinib has a comparable efficacy as sorafenib for the first-line therapy of HCC; while regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab have been approved as second-line therapy after the failure of sorafenib. Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy prolongs response rate and survival and enables long-term cure. Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab is superior to sorafenib as the first-line therapy for advanced HCC. Several emerging regimens by the combination of various systemic therapies are currently under clinical trials. Systemic therapy may be used in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant or even as initial therapy for intermediate-stage HCC. The paradigm shift of HCC treatment will improve patient outcomes.

Emerging curative-intent minimally-invasive therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cause of liver malignancy and the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths universally. Cure can be achieved for early stage HCC, which is defined as 3 or fewer lesions less than or equal to 3 cm in the setting of Child-Pugh A or B and an ECOG of 0. Patients outside of these criteria who can be down-staged with loco-regional therapies to resection or liver transplantation (LT) also achieve curative outcomes. Traditionally, surgical resection, LT, and ablation are considered curative therapies for early HCC. However, results from recently conducted LEGACY study and DOSISPHERE trial demonstrate that transarterial radio-embolization has curative outcomes for early HCC, leading to its recent incorporation into the Barcelona clinic liver criteria guidelines for early HCC. This review is based on current evidence for curative-intent loco-regional therapies including radioembolization for early-stage HCC.

Systematic Review and Pharmacokinetic Meta-analysis of Doxorubicin Exposure in Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization and Doxorubicin-Eluted Beads Chemoembolization for Treatment of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Almost 15 years after the introduction of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with drug-eluting beads (DEB-TACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy, the mean peak plasma concentration (C_max) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) for doxorubicin have still not been systematically reviewed or meta-analyzed.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of available data and establish a reference range for C_max and AUC of doxorubicin DEB-TACE and TACE, as well as explore the potential influence of microspheres' size and type on these parameters.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched from August 1992 through December 2021. Studies measuring exposure parameters among HCC patients treated with doxorubicin DEB-TACE without restriction on language were included. Two independent reviewers extracted and unified data sets for pooled estimate analysis. The quality of the evidence was assessed via the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. The ClinPK Statement checklist and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) were used to determine the quality of studies.

RESULTS

Out of 666 studies, 246 full-text were reviewed, and 8 studies entered the meta-analysis (120 patients). C_max and AUC of doxorubicin were 7.52-fold (95% CI 7.65 to 7.42-fold; P < 0.0001) and 1.91-fold (95% CI 1.95 to 1.88-fold; P = 0.0001) lower with DEB-TACE compared to TACE. Significant reduction in pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) of C_max and AUC was observed with DEB-TACE versus TACE in direct comparison analysis (- 2.93; 95% CI - 3.60 to - 2.26, P < 0.00001, and - 1.73 95% CI - 2.55 to - 0.91, P < 0.0001, respectively). Moreover, in DEB-TACE stratification analysis, small microspheres revealed higher C_max, AUC and tumor response rate as well as lower complication rate.

LIMITATION

The heterogeneity could not be completely addressed through sensitivity and stratification analysis.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis provides exposure parameters of doxorubicin and justifies the advantage of DEB-TACE over TACE in terms of safety for patients with unresectable HCC. This study showed a marked association between the size of microsphere and exposure parameters of doxorubicin supporting the preference for small microspheres in DEB-TACE. The moderate and low quality of evidence is assigned to the C_max and AUC, respectively.

POLYETHYLENE-GLYCOL DRUG-ELUTING EMBOLIC MICROSPHERES LOADED WITH DOXORUBICIN FOR THE TREATMENT OF HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA: FEASIBILITY, SAFETY AND PHARMACOKINETIC STUDY

PURPOSE

Polyethylene-glycol drug-eluting microspheres (PEG-DEM) can be loaded to elute doxorubicin. This study evaluated the pharmacokinetic profile and safety of PEG-DEMs in the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, multicentre, dose escalation study enrolled 25 patients (68% men) with early or intermediate stage HCC and performance status of 0. Patients in cohort I were assigned to receive target doxorubicin doses of 75, 100, or 150 mg. Analyses were performed based on the specific dose of doxorubicin that patients received, since some patients received less than the assigned dose. Patients in cohort II received the maximum safe tested dose. Adverse events (AEs) were classified according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v.4.03. Tumor response was evaluated every 3 months according to European Association for the Study of the Liver criteria and modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors.

RESULTS

The maximum tested safe dose of doxorubicin was 150 mg. For the groups that received ≤75, 75-100, and 101-150 mg, the C_max were 286.7±220.1, 157.1±94.6 and 245.4±142.8 ng/mL, respectively; AUC_0-24h were 421.7±221.2, 288.1±100.9 and 608.3±319.3 (ng x hours)/mL respectively, with almost complete clearance at 24 hours. There were no deaths within 30 days. The best objective response rate was 81% and the disease control rate was 91%. Median overall survival was 27.2 (95% CI, 17.5-n.e) months; median progression free survival was 9.8 (95% CI, 5.5-n.e.) months.

CONCLUSION

PEG-DEMs demonstrated a favorable safety profile with low systemic concentration of doxorubicin, and promising efficacy.

MicroRNAs Related to TACE Treatment Response: A Review of the Literature from a Radiological Point of View

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer in the world. Patients with intermediate stage (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer, B stage) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been able to benefit from TACE (transarterial chemoembolization) as a treatment option. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), i.e., a subclass of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), participate in post-transcriptional gene regulation processes and miRNA dysfunction has been associated with apoptosis resistance, cellular proliferation, tumor genesis, and progression. Only a few studies have investigated the role of miRNAs as biomarkers predicting TACE treatment response in HCC. Here, we review the studies’ characteristics from a radiological point of view, also correlating data with radiological images chosen from the cases of our institution.

Paraplegia following transarterial chemoembolisation for hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report

BACKGROUND

Transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is considered standard treatment for intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although TACE is viewed as a safe and effective procedure, it may still present with various complications, including spinal cord injury, though very rarely.

METHODS

A 74-year-old male was diagnosed with non-B, non-C HCC, segment 4, cT2N0M0, AJCC stage II, BCLC stage B. Angiography had shown a hypervascular tumour stain indicating that both T10 and T11 were tumour-feeding arteries, TACE then performed. After TACE, loss of sensation and motor functions involving the trunk below the umbilicus and both lower extremities were noted. The patient immediately underwent steroid pulse therapy. However, 100 days after TACE, the symptoms showed no improvement.

DISCUSSION

Because of anatomy and neurological distribution, it is conceivable that the embolic materials originating from the TACE procedure might have led to an embolic event with a serious manifestation, although the blood supply of the spinal cord encompasses multiple anastomoses.

CONCLUSION

Spinal cord injury is an extremely rare but grave complication of TACE. Paraplegia may result from inadvertent embolisation of spinal branches arising from intercostal or lumbar collateral vessels. This case highlights the necessity of evaluating and choosing the vessels before starting TACE to achieve a good outcome.

Survival and Outcome in Patients Receiving Drug-Eluting Beads Transarterial Chemoembolization for Large Hepatocellular Carcinoma (>5 cm)

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to study the outcome and survival of patients with large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) receiving drug-eluting beads (DEBs) transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). In addition, tumor morphologies were correlated with the response and survival to analyze the association of morphology with the outcome.

METHODS

Patients with large HCC (>5 cm) who underwent DEB-TACE for palliation were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were assessed for objective response (OR) and overall survival (OS), which was calculated from the first session of DEB-TACE to the last follow-up/death. OR and OS were calculated for the entire study group and were compared among the subgroups consisting of solitary versus multifocal HCC, unilobar versus bilobar disease, well-defined versus ill-defined HCC, and HCC with homogeneous enhancement versus HCC with heterogeneous enhancement.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven DEB-TACE procedures were performed in 25 patients (average: 2.7 ± 1.4 sessions per patient). The mean lesion size was 9.9 ± 4.5 cm. Of 25 patients, 13 (52%) had multifocal HCC. Unilobar disease was seen in 15 patients (60%). The mean duration of follow-up was 24.4 months. OR at 6 and 12 months were 56% and 48%, respectively, with well-defined lesions showing better OR. The median OS was 28 months (95% confidence interval, 12.3-43.6). OS rate at 12 and 24 months was 92% and 57%, respectively. OS was seen to be superior in well-defined HCC and unilobar disease.

CONCLUSION

In this study, DEB-TACE has shown to have a good response in patients having large/multifocal HCC with preserved liver functions. Well-defined HCC and unilobar disease have a better response and survival.

The role of muscle depletion and visceral adiposity in HCC patients aged 65 and over undergoing TACE

Background

The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been increasing among the elderly populations. Trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE), a widely used first-line non-curative therapy for HCCs is an issue in geriatrics. We investigated the prognosis of elderly HCC patients treated with TACE and determined the factors that affect the overall survival.

Methods

We included 266 patients who were older than 65 years and had received TACE as initial treatment for HCC. We analyzed the skeletal muscle index (SMI) and visceral-to-subcutaneous fat ratio (VSR) around the third lumbar vertebrae using computed tomography scans. Muscle depletion with visceral adiposity (MDVA) was defined by falling below the median SMI and above the median VSR value sex-specifically. We evaluated the overall survival in association with MDVA and other clinical factors.

Results

The mean age was 69.9 ± 4.5 years, and 70.3% of the patients were men. According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system, 29, 136, and 101 patients were classified as BCLC 0, A, and B stages, respectively, and 79 (29.7%) had MDVA. During the median follow-up of 4.1 years, patients with MDVA had a shorter life expectancy than those without MDVA (P = 0.007) even though MDVA group had a higher objective response rate after the first TACE (82.3% vs. 75.9%, P = 0.035). Multivariate analysis revealed that MDVA (Hazard ratio [HR] 1.515) age (HR 1.057), liver function (HR 1.078), tumor size (HR 1.083), serum albumin level (HR 0.523), platelet count (HR 0.996), tumor stage (stage A, HR 1.711; stage B, HR 2.003), and treatment response after the first TACE treatment (HR 0.680) were associated with overall survival.

Conclusions

MDVA is a critical prognostic factor for predicting survival in the elderly patients with HCC who have undergone TACE.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08905-2.

In the Era of Systemic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Is Transarterial Chemoembolization Still a Card to Play?

Conventional transarterial embolization (cTACE) has been proven to be effective for intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with a recent systematic review showing an overall survival (OS) of 19.4 months. Nevertheless, due to the rapid development of the systemic therapeutic landscape, the place of TACE is becoming questionable. Is there still a niche for TACE in the era of immunotherapy and combination treatments such as atezolizumab-bevacizumab, which has shown an OS of 19.2 months with excellent tolerance? The development of drug-eluting microspheres (DEMs) has led to the standardization of the technique, and along with adequate selection, it showed an OS of 48 months in a retrospective study. In order to increase treatment selectivity, new catheters have also been added to the TACE arsenal as well as the use of cone-beam CT (CBCT), which provides three-dimensional volumetric images and guidance during procedures. Moreover, the TACE indications have also widened. It may serve as a "bridging therapy" for liver transplantation candidates while they are on the waiting list, and it represents a valuable downstaging tool to transplantation criteria. The aim of this review is to explore the current data on the advancements of TACE and its future place amongst the growing panel of treatments.

Prospective Multi-Center Korean Registry of Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization with Drug-Eluting Embolics for Nodular Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Two-Year Outcome Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the two-year treatment outcomes of chemoembolization with drug-eluting embolics (DEE) for nodular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a prospective, multicenter, registry-based, single-arm trial conducted at five university hospitals in Korea. Patients were recruited between May 2011 and April 2013, with a target population of 200. A DC Bead loaded with doxorubicin was used as the DEE agent. Patients were followed up for two years. Per-patient and per-lesion tumor response analysis, per-patient overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) analysis, and per-lesion tumor control analysis were performed.

RESULTS

The final study population included 152 patients, with 207 target lesions for the per-lesion analysis. At one-month, six-month, one-year, and two-year per-patient assessments, complete response (CR) rates were 40.1%, 43.0%, 33.3%, and 19.6%, respectively. The objective response (OR) rates were 91.4%, 55.4%, 35.1%, and 19.6%, respectively. The cumulative two-year OS rate was 79.7%. The cumulative two-year PFS rate was 22.4% and the median survival was 9.3 months. In multivariable analysis, the Child-Pugh score (p = 0.019) was an independent predictor of OS, and tumor multiplicity (p < 0.001), tumor size (p = 0.020), and Child-Pugh score (p = 0.006) were independent predictors of PFS. In per-lesion analysis, one-month, six-month, one-year and two-year CR rates were 57.5%, 58.5%, 45.2%, and 33.3%, respectively, and the OR rates were 84.1%, 65.2%, 46.6%, and 33.3%, respectively. The cumulative two-year per-lesion tumor control rate was 36.2%, and the median time was 14.1 months. The Child-Pugh score (p < 0.001) was the only independent predictor of tumor control. Serious adverse events were reported in 11 patients (7.2%).

CONCLUSION

DEE chemoembolization for nodular HCCs in the Korean population showed acceptable survival, tumor response, and safety profiles after a two-year follow-up. Good liver function (Child-Pugh score A5) was a key predictor of per-patient OS, PFS, and per-lesion tumor control.

Unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treatment with doxorubicin-eluting polyethylene glycol microspheres: a single-center experience

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is indicated for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 50 hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with TACE using doxorubicin-loaded LifePearl™ to investigate the safety and efficacy of TACE.

Results

There was no 30-day mortality, and limited adverse events were reported. At best tumor response, complete response and disease control were 58% and 94%, respectively, with a median of 4.5 months of follow-up. Median overall survival was 33.8 months. Patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage 0 and stage A at best tumor response showed a higher complete response rate (83%) than patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B (complete response: 50%; p = 0.0414).

Conclusion

Doxorubicin-loaded LifePearl™ TACE might be an effective treatment, with a good safety profile, for patients with early/intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Further prospective data, especially with a small cohort of selected patients, are required to confirm these results.

Short-term efficacy and safety of callispheres drug-loaded microsphere embolization in primary hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Drug-eluting beads transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) is a newly developed local regional therapy for improving the efficacy and safety of conventional transarterial chemoembolization (cTACE), which is now universally used to treat patients with unresectable liver cancer.Cohort studies, clinical trials, and meta-analysis have shown DEB-TACE to be associated with favorable treatment responses, prolonged survival, and at least similar safety profile when compared with cTACE.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This study was to evaluate the short term clinical efficacy, side effects, and risk factors affecting the clinical effectiveness of CalliSpheres drug loaded bead transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (DEB TACE) in the treatment of primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 172 consecutive patients with HCC undergoing DEB TACE (loaded with doxorubicin) from January 2017 to December 2018 were prospectively enrolled. Short term local tumor response was evaluated by the modified RECIST criteria. Postoperative complications and liver function disorders were analyzed based on examinations and clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

The median follow up period was 310 days. Based on the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors criteria, objective response rates(complete response [CR] + partial response [PR]) were 78.7%, 71.6%, and 63.2%, and disease control rates(CR + PR + stable disease) were 95.3%, 92.1%, and 85.9% at 2, 4, and 6 months posttreatment, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that nodule number >3, high BCLC stage, no vascular leak, and previous conventional TACE treatment were associated with poor ORR (P < 0.05). Postoperation, liver function showed transient changes. Postoperative complications were tolerated and relieved by symptomatic treatment. The average interval of TACE before D TACE was 43 days, compared with 70 days for average interval of DEB TACE. The average hospital stay was 1.87 days.

CONCLUSION

DEB TACE has improved short term efficacy and lower incidence of complications in primary HCC and prolongs the interval of TACE. It significantly increases the ORR, especially in patients with no extra hepatic metastasis pretreatment. DEB usage actually improves treatment efficacy and provides more benefits to patients. KEY WORDS: Drug-loaded bead-transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, hepatocellular carcinoma, microsphere embolization.

Complications Following Irinotecan-Loaded Microsphere Chemoembolization of Colorectal Metastatic Liver Lesions Associated with Hepatic-Artery Branch Temporary Stasis

Chemoembolization with irinotecan-loaded microspheres has proven effective in the treatment of unresectable liver metastases in the course of colorectal cancer (CRC). Most researchers recommend slowly administering the embolizate at the level of the lobar arteries, without obtaining visible stasis. However, there are reports of a relationship between postoperative embolizate retention in metastatic lesions and the response to treatment. To retain residual embolizate throughout the entire neoplastic lesion requires a temporary flow stop (stasis) within all supply vessels, which may cause temporary stasis in subsegmental or even segmental vessels. Objective: To assess the risk of complications and post-embolization syndrome severity following chemoembolization of CRC metastatic liver lesions with microspheres loaded with Irinotecan, with regard to hepatic-artery branch level of temporary stasis. Patients and methods: The study included 52 patients (29 female, 23 male) with liver metastases from CRC, who underwent 202 chemoembolization treatments (mean: 3.88 per patient) with microspheres loaded with 100 mg irinotecan. Postembolization syndrome (PES) severity and complication occurrence were assessed with regard to the hepatic-artery branch level of temporary stasis. Adverse events were assessed according to Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Results: Median survival from the start of chemoembolization was 13 months. From 202 chemoembolization sessions, 15 (7.4%) significant complications were found. The study found a significant relationship between the branch level of temporary stasis and the presence of complications (p < 0.001), with the highest number of complications observed with temporary stasis in segmental vessels. PES was diagnosed after 103 (51%) chemoembolization treatments. A significant association was found between PES severity and the branch level of temporary stasis (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The branch level of temporary stasis affected the severity of post-embolization syndrome. A significant association was found between the branch level of temporary stasis obtained in chemoembolization procedures and the presence of complications. The apparent lack of change in numbers of complications when stasis was applied at tumor supply vessels or subsegmental arteries may indicate the safe use of temporary stasis in some cases where colorectal cancer metastases are treated. Further research is needed to determine the most effective chemoembolization technique.

Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: Truth or dare?

The discovery of direct acting antivirals (DAA) with high rates of sustained virusological response is the biggest epoch-making event in the history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. DAAs improve liver function, prevent hepatic decompensation, and might even reverse liver fibrosis. Although initial research pointed towards a potential drawback, it is now known beyond doubt that DAA treatment reduces hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence or recurrence after curative treatments. Unfortunately, the story has reached another plot twist, as several other issues have emerged: (i) Should we treat patients with early HCC and HCV before or after surgery/ablation? (ii) Should patients with HCC on the waiting list receive DAA before or after liver transplantation? (iii) Should we use interferon-free in patients with intermediate stage HCC or in patients under systemic treatments? In this review, we aim to offer some evidence-based answers to these changing clinical dilemmas where possible, or at least some educated guesses in cases were no or little data exists.

Hepatobiliary Cancers, Version 2.2021, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

The NCCN Guidelines for Hepatobiliary Cancers focus on the screening, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), gallbladder cancer, and cancer of the bile ducts (intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma). Due to the multiple modalities that can be used to treat the disease and the complications that can arise from comorbid liver dysfunction, a multidisciplinary evaluation is essential for determining an optimal treatment strategy. A multidisciplinary team should include hepatologists, diagnostic radiologists, interventional radiologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, and pathologists with hepatobiliary cancer expertise. In addition to surgery, transplant, and intra-arterial therapies, there have been great advances in the systemic treatment of HCC. Until recently, sorafenib was the only systemic therapy option for patients with advanced HCC. In 2020, the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab became the first regimen to show superior survival to sorafenib, gaining it FDA approval as a new frontline standard regimen for unresectable or metastatic HCC. This article discusses the NCCN Guidelines recommendations for HCC.

Treatment trends and outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma in a single center for 35 years

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality. The aim of this study was to examine the trends of HCC treatment and the outcomes in a single tertiary center for 35 years.

METHODS

Two hundred seventy-three consecutive HCC patients between 1983-2018 were identified from Oulu University Hospital records. Primary outcomes of the study were postoperative complications within 30 days after the operation, and short- (30- and 90-day) and long-term (1, 3 and 5-year) survival.

RESULTS

Of the 273 patients, 49 underwent surgical resection, 25 local ablation, 48 angiological treatment and 151 had palliative treatment. The rate of surgery declined over time, while other invasive treatments increased. Major complications occurred in 14 (28.6%) patients after surgical resection, in 2 (8.0%) patients after local ablation and in 13 (27.1%) patients after angiological treatment (P=0.022). Recurrence and local recidives were observed especially in local ablation group and in angiological treatment group (P<0.001). Overall survival rates in surgical resection group were at 30 and 90 days, 1-, 3- and 5-years 95.9%, 95.9%, 85.1%, 59.0% and 51.2%. In local ablation group, respective overall survival rates were 100.0%, 100.0%, 86.1%, 43.1% and 18.8%, and in angiological group 95.8%, 93.6%, 56.1%, 26.3% and 6.6%. In cox regression model adjusted for confounding factors, mortality hazard was lowest after surgical resection. Prognosis was poor in palliative group.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this Northern Finland population, the surgical resection of HCC has acceptable complication rate compared to other treatments; and yields the best long-term survival. Overall prognosis of HCC remains poor.

Initial Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) Using HepaSpheres 20-40 µm and Subsequent Lipiodol TACE in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma > 5 cm

PURPOSE

To investigate clinical outcomes of drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) using HepaSpheres 20-40 µm in diameter and subsequent cisplatin-based lipiodol TACE (Cis-TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) > 5 cm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 39 consecutive patients (34 men, 5 women; mean age, 63.5 years; range, 39-80 years) who underwent DEB-TACE using HepaSpheres 20-40 µm as first-line treatment for HCC > 5 cm (mean diameter, 8.2 cm; range, 5.1-13 cm) between September 2018 and August 2019. Patients with new tumors, residual tumors, or tumor growth after initial DEB-TACE underwent subsequent Cis-TACE.

RESULTS

All 39 patients underwent initial DEB-TACE successfully, with 35 (89.7%) and three (7.7%) patients experiencing minor and major complications, respectively. After initial DEB-TACE, one patient (2.6%) achieved complete response (CR), 35 (89.7%) achieved partial response (PR), and three (7.7%) experienced progressive disease (PD). During a median follow-up period of 14.4 months (range, 0.6-23 months), 23 patients underwent Cis-TACE, with 11, three, and nine achieving CR, PR, and PD, respectively. The median overall survival time was 20.9 months (95% confidence interval (CI), 18.6-23.2 months), the median time to progression was 8.8 months (95% CI, 6.5-11.1 months), and the median time to local tumor recurrence was 16 months (95% CI, 7.4-24.6 months).

CONCLUSIONS

DEB-TACE using HepaSpheres 20-40 µm in diameter can be a safe and effective initial treatment method in patients with HCC > 5 cm. Subsequent Cis-TACE constitutes a good adjuvant method to enhance tumor response after initial DEB-TACE.

Management of intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma in the elderly with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization failure: Retreatment or switching to systemic therapy?

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter Arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the first-line option for the intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma. Guidelines do not define the number of TACE sessions to be repeated before stopping treatment and switching to sorafenib.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed 76 patients aged ≥65 years who were treated by multiple TACE sessions (re-TACE group; N = 36 patients) or one TACE session followed by sorafenib (TACE/Sorafenib group; N = 40 patients). The primary outcome was the overall survival (Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank test).

RESULTS

Median overall survival was 320 days (range: 70-420 days) in re-TACE subgroup and 285 days (range: 50-368 days) in TACE/Sorafenib subgroup without significant differences between the two groups (log-rank test P = .72; HR = 0.87; 95% IC 0.41-1.87). The survival rate at one year was 43.6% and 32% in the re-TACE and in the TACE/sorafenib groups (P = .12), respectively. Subgroup analysis by gender, number of nodules at baseline and etiology of liver cirrhosis was performed but no differences were found. No statistical difference was observed in the frequency of side effects, but sorafenib was associated with severe diarrhoea in most patients requiring dose reduction.

CONCLUSION

In our study including HCC patients aged ≥65 years, no differences in survival rate and side effects were found between patients Retreated with further TACE sessions and patients with treatment stage migration to sorafenib after first TACE failure. We included in our analysis a small study population; therefore, larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Chinese expert consensus on technical recommendations for the standard operation of drug-eluting beads for transvascular embolization

Liver cancer is among the 10 most common tumors globally. In China, liver cancer ranks 4^th for prevalence and 3^rd for mortality among all malignant tumors. With respect to the treatment of primary liver cancer, there are a number of therapies currently available, including surgical resection, liver transplantation, ablation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), systemic chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy and immunotherapy. Clinical practice and research have shown that, compared with conventional TACE (cTACE), drug-eluting bead TACE (DEB-TACE) can achieve a higher response rate and longer survival time in patients with primary liver cancer. Compared with that of cTACE, DEB-TACE has more favorable basic conditions for achieving uniformity, which could facilitate the standardization of operation techniques. China is the country with the highest incidence of primary liver cancer, accounting for more than 50% of the global patients, and its etiology and epidemiology in Chinese patients differ from those in Europeans and Americans. Therefore, experts in China have drafted these technical recommendations for the standard operation of drug-eluting beads for the treatment of liver cancer on the basis of accumulated abundant clinical experience and evidence-based medical data.

Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Limits and Prospects

Although many approaches have been used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the clinical benefits remain limited, particularly for late stage HCC. In recent years, studies have focused on immunotherapy for HCC. Immunotherapies have shown promising clinical outcomes in several types of cancers and potential therapeutic effects for advanced HCC. In this review, we summarize the immune tolerance and immunotherapeutic strategies for HCC as well as the main challenges of current therapeutic approaches. We also present alternative strategies for overcoming these limitations.

Updates on the Diagnosis and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Introduction

Globally, the incidence, as well as mortality, related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is on the rise, owing to relatively few curative options. Underlying cirrhosis is the most common etiology leading to HCC, but risk factors of cirrhosis show great regional variability. Over the years, there has been a steady development in the diagnostic and therapeutic modalities of HCC, including the availability of a wide range of systemic chemotherapeutic agents. We aim to review the recent advancements in the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for HCC.

Methodology

The literature search was done using databases PubMed, Cochrane, and Science Direct, and the latest relevant articles were reviewed.

Findings

Screening of HCC is a pivotal step in the early diagnosis of the disease. Current guidelines recommend using ultrasound and alfa fetoprotein but various new biomarkers are under active research that might aid in diagnosing very small tumors, not picked up by the current screening methods. Treatment options are decided based upon the overall performance of the patient and the extent of the disease, as per the Barcelona classification. There are very few options that offer a cure for the disease, ranging from liver resection and transplantation to tumor ablation. Downstaging has proven to have a significant role in the course of the disease. An attempt to control the disease can be made via radiological interventions, such as transarterial chemoembolization, transarterial radioembolization, or radiation therapy. For advanced disease, sorafenib used to be the only option until a couple of years ago. Recently, many other systemic agents have received approval as first-line and second-line therapies for HCC. Genomics is an area of active clinical research as understanding the mutations and genomics involved in the evolution of HCC might lead to a breakthrough therapy.

How to cite this article

Raees A, Kamran M, Özkan H, et al. Updates on the Diagnosis and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2021;11(1):32–40.

Transarterial chemoembolization with drug-eluting beads in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: response analysis with mRECIST

PURPOSE

According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging classification, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the treatment of choice for intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thereby, the use of drug-eluting beads (DEB) as embolic agents has been recently established in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate tumor response after DEB-TACE.

METHODS

This retrospective study was approved by the institutional ethics committee. Overall, 89 patients with HCC (Child Pugh A or B) receiving DEB-TACE as palliative treatment option or as bridging before liver transplantation were included in the study. Tumor response was assessed by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST) and a tumor growth rate. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier estimator with log-rank testing and Cox proportional hazards.

RESULTS

A total of 188 TACE procedures were performed between 2006 and 2010. After the last intervention, 18% achieved complete response, 45% achieved partial response, 28% had stable disease and 9% had progressive disease. Using the tumor growth rate, 90% of all patients showed a tumor reduction between first and final response evaluation. The 6-month, 1-, 2- and 3-year overall survival rates were 86.5%, 67.4%, 47.2%, and 33.7%, with a median survival of 45, 24, 15, and 14 months for complete response, partial response, stable disease, and progressive disease, respectively. Tumor reduction showed a positive effect on survival.

CONCLUSION

DEB-TACE offers conclusive response results with mRECIST and proves a strong tendency of tumor reduction on survival benefits. Therefore, tumor growth rate represents a possible parameter to predict survival.

Current locoregional therapies and treatment strategies in hepatocellular carcinoma

Locoregional therapies (lrts) play an important role in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (hcc), with the aim of increasing overall survival while preserving liver function. Various forms of lrt are available, and choosing the best one depends on technical aspects, liver morphology, tumour biology, and the patient's symptoms. The purpose of the present review article is to provide an overview of the current evidence relating to the use of percutaneous ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, and transarterial radioembolization for the curative or palliative treatment of hcc. Special situations are also reviewed, including the combined use of systemic therapy and lrt, indications and techniques for bridging to transplant and downstaging, and the use of lrt to treat patients with hcc and macrovascular invasion.

Single-center randomized trial comparing conventional chemoembolization versus doxorubicin-loaded polyethylene glycol microspheres for early- and intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma

According to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer classification, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is preferred treatment for stage B and in certain cases for stage A hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Conventional TACE (c-TACE) and drug-eluting microspheres TACE (DEM-TACE) are available intraarterial therapies. Screening of patients with cirrhosis is of great importance for early detection of malignant liver nodules. Primary endpoint of this study was to compare DEM-TACE with c-TACE in terms of 12- and 24-month survival. Secondary endpoints were comparison of intensity and duration of the postembolization syndrome (PES) and severe adverse events. We randomized 60 patients with unresectable HCC one-to-one with c-TACE or DEM-TACE and followed them for at least 24 months or until death. TACE was repeated 'on-demand. Most patients underwent two TACE sessions and the median hospital stay was 3 days for c-TACE and 2 days for DEM-TACE group. The overall 12- and 24-month survival rates were 89.8 and 70.7%, respectively, precisely 85.7 and 63.6% after c-TACE and 90.2 and 75.8% after DEM-TACE, without any significant difference (P = 0.18). Median overall survival was 21.1 months. Significant difference in the overall 12- and 24-month survival was found in patients with Child-Pugh A compared to Child-Pugh B class (P = 0.001). Child-Pugh class, aspartate aminotransferase levels and ascites independently predicted survival (P = 0.003). Both, DEM-TACE and c-TACE showed excellent 12- and 24-month survival rates. No significant difference in terms of adverse events was found. PES was slightly more severe after c-TACE, because of elevated temperature. DEM-TACE requires shorter in-hospital stay.

Drug-Eluting Microsphere Versus Cisplatin-Based Transarterial Chemoembolization for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with 30- to 60-μm drug-eluting microspheres with those of cisplatin-based TACE in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS. This retrospective single-center study included 607 patients who underwent drug-eluting microsphere (30-60 μm, loaded with doxorubicin) TACE (n = 119) or cisplatin-based TACE (n = 488) as first-line treatment of unresectable HCC between April 2017 and April 2018. With a propensity model correcting for selection bias, patients were selected from each treatment group to compare the effectiveness of drug-eluting microsphere TACE with that of cisplatin TACE. RESULTS. In the entire study population, the rates of major complications (1.7% vs 1.8%, p > 0.999), objective tumor response (80.7% vs 79.7%, p = 0.899), and time to progression (p = 0.536) were not significantly different between the drug-eluting microsphere TACE and cisplatin TACE groups. However, the drug-eluting microsphere TACE group had significantly higher objective tumor regression rates in subgroups with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C disease (p = 0.033) and a maximal tumor size larger than 5 cm (p = 0.011). After adjustment by propensity score matching, the rates of major complications, objective tumor response, and time to progression remained similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION. Both TACE with 30- to 60-μm drug-eluting microspheres and cisplatin TACE were safe and effective for treating unresectable HCC. In patients with BCLC stage C disease and patients with large (> 5 cm) HCCs, TACE with 30- to 60-μm drug-eluting micro-spheres may have a better chance of obtaining an objective tumor response than conventional TACE performed with the protocol used in this study.

Super-selective transarterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma with doxorubicin-eluting beads sized 40-75 microns: assessment of efficacy and safety

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of super-selective transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with doxorubicin-loaded drug-eluting beads (DEB) sized 40-75 μm for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in early and intermediate stages according to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study was conducted with 45 consecutive HCC patients treated by 72 sessions of DEB-TACE during the 2012-2017 period. Thirty-seven patients (82.2%) had single tumor staged BCLC A and B (53.3% and 46.7%, respectively). All procedures were performed by super-selective approach using 1.7-2.0 F microcatheters. Cone beam CT was performed to detect all tumor-feeding arteries and assess the treatment results immediately. Dynamic MRI and laboratory tests were obtained at 1-month follow-up and every 3 months thereafter. Response to treatment according to modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, demographic and clinical status, laboratory tests, time-to-event durations and rates, complications according to the National Cancer Institute Criteria for Adverse Events were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients (median age, 65.6 years; range, 35-88 years; 33 men, 73.4%) were included. Eight patients (17.7%) underwent liver transplantation after DEB-TACE, and 20 (44.4%) died during the follow-up period. Median follow-up was 22 months (range, 13-31), and 42 (93.3%) patients were followed up for more than 1 year. Overall complete response, partial response, and progressive disease rates were 53.3%, 33.3%, and 13.4% at one year and 22.2%, 26.7%, and 13.3% at three years, respectively. For target lesions, these rates were 60.0%, 26.7%, and 13.3% at one year and 28.9%, 6.7%, and 4.4% at three years, respectively. Median overall survival (OS) duration was 24 months (95% CI, 20.9-31.9 months). At one year and three years, OS rates were 71.0% and 44.4%, respectively. The only statistically significant relationship with OS was presence of chronic liver disease, which worsened the OS rate (P = 0.031). Time-to-progression (TTP) was 23 months (95% CI, 15.1-40.0), and progression-free survival (PFS) was 28 months (95% CI, 6.2-39.8). Post-embolization syndrome occurred in 10 patients (22.2%). Transient grade I/II bilirubin and aminotransferase elevation was observed in 26 (57.7%) and 18 (40%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Super-selective DEB-TACE with doxorubicin-loaded beads sized 40-75 μm is an effective and safe treatment method with prolonged TTP and PFS in early and intermediate stages of HCC. Presence of chronic liver disease is the only significant factor that worsened OS ratios after DEB-TACE.