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Spontaneous regression of lung metastases in hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep 2020; 78:378-381. [PMID: 33401194 PMCID: PMC7787914 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2020.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The prognosis of patients with advanced HCC remains poor even if appropriate treatments are administered. Spontaneous regression of lung metastases of hepatocellular is a rare condition. We discuss the mechanism for spontaneous regression of multiple pulmonary recurrences of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Introduction Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rare condition. However, although there have been multiple reports of spontaneous regression, the definitive pathogenic mechanism of this phenomenon is still unclear. Case presentation We encountered a case of a 78-year-old man who was undergoing dialysis for end-stage kidney disease with hepatitis C virus-associated chronic hepatitis presenting with HCC. The patient had previously undergone right lobectomy of the liver, but the cancer recurred with multiple lung metastases after 5 months. Approximately 13 months after the initial diagnosis of recurrence, the lung metastases decreased in size and eventually resolved without any anticancer therapy. The patient remains alive for over 41 months after recurrence. Discussion Based on our case and literature, Hypoxia with hypotension due to hemodialysis can reduce the blood and oxygen supply of the body, which may lead to the spontaneous regression of the metastatic tumors. Conclusion We herein reported a case of spontaneous regression of HCC undergoing dialysis.
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Wang G, Yuan R, Zhu X, Ao P. Endogenous Molecular-Cellular Network Cancer Theory: A Systems Biology Approach. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1702:215-245. [PMID: 29119508 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7456-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In light of ever apparent limitation of the current dominant cancer mutation theory, a quantitative hypothesis for cancer genesis and progression, endogenous molecular-cellular network hypothesis has been proposed from the systems biology perspective, now for more than 10 years. It was intended to include both the genetic and epigenetic causes to understand cancer. Its development enters the stage of meaningful interaction with experimental and clinical data and the limitation of the traditional cancer mutation theory becomes more evident. Under this endogenous network hypothesis, we established a core working network of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) according to the hypothesis and quantified the working network by a nonlinear dynamical system. We showed that the two stable states of the working network reproduce the main known features of normal liver and HCC at both the modular and molecular levels. Using endogenous network hypothesis and validated working network, we explored genetic mutation pattern in cancer and potential strategies to cure or relieve HCC from a totally new perspective. Patterns of genetic mutations have been traditionally analyzed by posteriori statistical association approaches in light of traditional cancer mutation theory. One may wonder the possibility of a priori determination of any mutation regularity. Here, we found that based on the endogenous network theory the features of genetic mutations in cancers may be predicted without any prior knowledge of mutation propensities. Normal hepatocyte and cancerous hepatocyte stable states, specified by distinct patterns of expressions or activities of proteins in the network, provide means to directly identify a set of most probable genetic mutations and their effects in HCC. As the key proteins and main interactions in the network are conserved through cell types in an organism, similar mutational features may also be found in other cancers. This analysis yielded straightforward and testable predictions on an accumulated and preferred mutation spectrum in normal tissue. The validation of predicted cancer state mutation patterns demonstrates the usefulness and potential of a causal dynamical framework to understand and predict genetic mutations in cancer. We also obtained the following implication related to HCC therapy, (1) specific positive feedback loops are responsible for the maintenance of normal liver and HCC; (2) inhibiting proliferation and inflammation-related positive feedback loops, and simultaneously inducing liver-specific positive feedback loop is predicated as the potential strategy to cure or relieve HCC; (3) the genesis and regression of HCC is asymmetric. In light of the characteristic property of the nonlinear dynamical system, we demonstrate that positive feedback loops must be existed as a simple and general molecular basis for the maintenance of phenotypes such as normal liver and HCC, and regulating the positive feedback loops directly or indirectly provides potential strategies to cure or relieve HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaowei Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Pathology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0864, USA
| | - Ruoshi Yuan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Systems Biology, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaomei Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Center for Quantitative Life Sciences and Physics Department, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Center for Quantitative Life Sciences and Physics Department, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Tarakanovskaya MG, Chinburen J, Batchuluun P, Munkhzaya C, Purevsuren G, Dandii D, Hulan T, Oyungerel D, Kutsyna GA, Reid AA, Borisova V, Bain AI, Jirathitikal V, Bourinbaiar AS. Open-label Phase II clinical trial in 75 patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma receiving daily dose of tableted liver cancer vaccine, hepcortespenlisimut-L. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2017; 4:59-69. [PMID: 28443252 PMCID: PMC5396941 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s122507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An increasing number of studies is now devoted to immunotherapy of cancer. We evaluated the clinical benefit of hepcortespenlisimut-L (Hepko-V5 [formerly known as V5])—an oral therapeutic vaccine designated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an orphan drug for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). V5 was initially developed by us in 2002 to treat hepatitis B or C viral infections and liver cirrhosis. Methods The outcome of open-label Phase II trial of daily dose of V5 pill was analyzed retrospectively. Over a period of 5 years, 75 patients with advanced HCC were enrolled, consisting of 29 (38.7%) females and 46 (61.3%) males with a median age of 60 years (mean 61.6±8.1 years). Out of these, 23 (30.7%) had hepatitis B and 34 (45.3%) had hepatitis C infections, including 9 (12%) with dual infection, 4 (5.3%) negative for both viruses, and 5 (6.7%) without established viral diagnosis. Most patients (94.7%) had underlying liver cirrhosis of varying severity. Results After a median of 2 months of treatment, 50 out of 75 patients had experienced a decline in serum levels of the tumor marker, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) (66.7%; P=0.006 by Wilcoxon signed rank test). Baseline median AFP levels were 245.2 IU/mL (mean 4,233; range 7.2–92,407; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1,186–7,280) and post-treatment values were 102.3 IU/mL (mean 2,539; range 0.9–54,478; 95% CI 503–4,575). The decrease in AFP was correlated either with tumor clearance or regression on computed tomography scans. The median overall survival time could not be established since 68 out of 75 (90.7%) patients were still alive after median follow-up of 12 months (mean 15±9.7; range 7–59; 95% CI 12.8–17.2). The first patient in this study received immunotherapy 5 years ago and still remains in complete remission. None of the patients experienced any serious adverse effects or toxicity. Conclusion The results indicate that hepcortespenlismut-L is a safe, effective, and fast-acting immunomodulatory intervention for HCC. The Phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial is now initiated at the Mongolian National Cancer Center to confirm these promising findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Galyna A Kutsyna
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Luhansk State Medical University, Luhansk, Ukraine
| | - Alan A Reid
- Immunitor China Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Vika Borisova
- Immunitor China Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | - Aldar S Bourinbaiar
- Immunitor China Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Immunitor Inc, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Immunitor LLC, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
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4
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Yoo YJ, Kim JH. [Spontaneous Complete Remission of Hepatocellular Carcinoma]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2016; 66:359-62. [PMID: 27175457 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2015.66.6.359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Kim SB, Kang W, Shin SH, Lee HS, Lee SH, Choi GH, Park JY. Spontaneous neoplastic remission of hepatocellular carcinoma. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2016; 65:312-5. [PMID: 25998978 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2015.65.5.312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
We report on a case of a 57-year-old male who underwent a curative resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with histological confirmation of a spontaneously necrotized tumor. Initial serum AFP level was 4,778 ng/mL. A 3.7 cm hyperechoic mass in segment 6 of the liver was observed on ultrasonography and dynamic contrast-enhanced liver MRI showed a 3.7 × 3.1 cm sized HCC. He was scheduled to undergo curative surgical resection under the clinical diagnosis of an early stage HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage A). Without treatment, the serum AFP level declined rapidly to 50 ng/mL over five weeks. He underwent curative wedge resection of segment 6 of the liver. Histology revealed complete necrosis of the mass rimmed by inflamed fibrous capsule on a background of HBV-related cirrhosis with infiltration of lymphoplasma cells. Exact pathophysiology underlying this event is unknown. Among the proposed mechanisms of spontaneous neoplastic remission of HCC, circulatory disturbance and activation of host immune response offer the most scientific explanation for the complete histologic necrosis of HCC in the resected mass seen in our patient.
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Chung H, Son J. Spontaneous Regression of Lacrimal Sac Squamous Cell Carcinoma. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2016. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2016.57.8.1294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- HyunUk Chung
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - JunHyuk Son
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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Wang G, Zhu X, Gu J, Ao P. Quantitative implementation of the endogenous molecular-cellular network hypothesis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Interface Focus 2014; 4:20130064. [PMID: 24904733 PMCID: PMC3996582 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2013.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A quantitative hypothesis for cancer genesis and progression-the endogenous molecular-cellular network hypothesis, intended to include both genetic and epigenetic causes of cancer-has been proposed recently. Using this hypothesis, here we address the molecular basis for maintaining normal liver and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the potential strategy to cure or relieve HCC. First, we elaborate the basic assumptions of the hypothesis and establish a core working network of HCC according to the hypothesis. Second, we quantify the working network by a nonlinear dynamical system. We show that the working network reproduces the main known features of normal liver and HCC at both the modular and molecular levels. Lastly, the validated working network reveals that (i) specific positive feedback loops are responsible for the maintenance of normal liver and HCC; (ii) inhibiting proliferation and inflammation-related positive feedback loops and simultaneously inducing a liver-specific positive feedback loop is predicated as a potential strategy to cure or relieve HCC; and (iii) the genesis and regression of HCC are asymmetric. In light of the characteristic properties of the nonlinear dynamical system, we demonstrate that positive feedback loops must exist as a simple and general molecular basis for the maintenance of heritable phenotypes, such as normal liver and HCC, and regulating the positive feedback loops directly or indirectly provides potential strategies to cure or relieve HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaowei Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic ofChina
| | - Xiaomei Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic ofChina
| | - Jianren Gu
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic ofChina
| | - Ping Ao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic ofChina
- Department of Physics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic ofChina
- State Key Laboratory for Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200032, People's Republic ofChina
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Tomino T, Yamashita YI, Iguchi T, Itoh S, Ninomiya M, Ikegami T, Yoshizumi T, Soejima Y, Kawanaka H, Ikeda T, Aishima S, Shirabe K, Maehara Y. Spontaneous massive necrosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with narrowing and occlusion of the arteries and portal veins. Case Rep Gastroenterol 2014; 8:148-55. [PMID: 24926228 PMCID: PMC4036137 DOI: 10.1159/000362440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
We herein present the case of a 77-year-old man who had fever and right hypochondriac pain. He visited his doctor and underwent contrast computed tomography (CT), and he was suspected to have a liver abscess. He received an antibiotic treatment and his symptoms soon disappeared, but the tumor did not get smaller and its density on contrast CT image got stronger. He underwent biopsy and moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was found. Extended left hepatic and caudate lobectomy was performed. Histological examination showed moderately differentiated HCC with narrowing and occlusion both in the arteries and portal veins associated with mild chronic inflammation. The mechanisms of spontaneous regression of HCC, such as immunological reactions and tumor hypoxia, have been proposed. In our case, histological examination showed the same findings. However, the mechanism is complex, and therefore further investigations are essential to elucidate it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Tomino
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yo-Ichi Yamashita
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Iguchi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinji Itoh
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mizuki Ninomiya
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toru Ikegami
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomoharu Yoshizumi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuji Soejima
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Kawanaka
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ikeda
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shinichi Aishima
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken Shirabe
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Maehara
- Department of Surgery and Science, Pathological Sciences, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Sasaki T, Fukumori D, Yamamoto K, Yamamoto F, Igimi H, Yamashita Y. Management considerations for purported spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report. Case Rep Gastroenterol 2013; 7:147-52. [PMID: 23626515 PMCID: PMC3617977 DOI: 10.1159/000350501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an extraordinary phenomenon that occurs rarely. While more than 80 cases have been described, most have been established via radiological findings or examination of biopsy tissues rather than via pathological examination of a resected specimen. The present report describes a purported case of spontaneous regression of HCC as indicated by radiological examination. Subsequent immunostaining of surgically resected specimens revealed viable cancer cells, though only necrotic tissues were seen on hematoxylin and eosin staining. These data indicate that viable cancer cells may still be present even if imaging findings suggest spontaneous regression of HCC. Therefore, these patients should receive aggressive treatment similar to that used for patients with established HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahide Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Imari, Japan ; Department of Surgery, Yamamoto Memorial Hospital, Imari, Japan
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Huz JI, Melis M, Sarpel U. Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma is most often associated with tumour hypoxia or a systemic inflammatory response. HPB (Oxford) 2012; 14:500-5. [PMID: 22762397 PMCID: PMC3406346 DOI: 10.1111/j.1477-2574.2012.00478.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is well documented, although the aetiology of this phenomenon remains unknown. METHODS A review of the English literature was performed for reports of spontaneous regression of HCC. Reports were classified by mechanism based on the available information. RESULTS Spontaneous regression of HCC has been identified in 75 patients. The most common mechanisms of regression identified were tumour hypoxia (n= 21, 28.0%), a systemic inflammatory response (n= 25, 33.3%) and unknown (n= 29, 38.7%). In patients where tumour hypoxia was described as the aetiology, mechanisms included spontaneous hepatic artery thrombosis and sustained systemic hypotension. In patients where a systemic inflammatory response was the aetiology, mechanisms included cholangitis, trauma and elevated cytokine levels. DISCUSSION Spontaneous regression of HCC is most commonly associated with tumour hypoxia or a systemic inflammatory response. Determining the aetiology of spontaneous regression may identify potential therapeutic pathways. Tumour hypoxia is already the basis of treatment modalities such as hepatic artery embolization and the anti-angiogenic agent sorafenib. However, treatment modalities for HCC do not currently include immune-directed therapies; this may prove to be a worthy target for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan I Huz
- Department of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10029, USA
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11
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Huang TM, Luo GR. Mechanisms underlying spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2012; 20:1939-1948. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v20.i21.1939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We searched MEDLINE and identified 85 cases of spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Analysis of these cases found that immunity is the most likely cause of spontaneous regression of HCC, and the elimination of immunosuppressive microenvironment may play a key role in this process. Ischemia, ethanol abstinence, and blood transfusion might lead to regression of HCC through the elimination of immunosuppression and activation of antitumor immunity.
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12
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Herreros-Villanueva M, Hijona E, Cosme A, Bujanda L. Spontaneous regression of pancreatic cancer: Real or a misdiagnosis? World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:2902-8. [PMID: 22736913 PMCID: PMC3380317 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i23.2902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous tumor regression has been subject of numerous studies and speculations for many years. This phenomenon is exceptional, but well reported, in some types of tumors, but not in pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer has the worst five-year survival rate of any cancer. Despite numerous molecular studies and clinical approaches, using several mouse models, this cancer responds poorly to the existing chemotherapeutic agents and progress on treatment remains elusive. Although pancreatic cancer tumors seldom undergo spontaneous regression, and some authors take that with skepticism, there are some cases reported in the literature. However, the variability in the description of the reports and technical details could make this process susceptible to misdiagnosis. Distinguishing between different types of pancreatic carcinoma should be taken with caution as they have wide differences in malignant potential. Diseases such as pancreatic benign tumors, insulinomas, or autoimmune pancreatitis could be responsible for this misdiagnosis as a pancreatic cancer. Here we review different cases reported, their clinical characteristics, and possible mechanisms leading to spontaneous regression of pancreatic cancer. We also discuss the possibilities of misdiagnosis.
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Oquiñena S, Iñarrairaegui M, Vila JJ, Alegre F, Zozaya JM, Sangro B. Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma: three case reports and a categorized review of the literature. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:1147-53. [PMID: 18716866 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0447-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2008] [Accepted: 07/02/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Oquiñena
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Virgen del Camino, Pamplona, Spain
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14
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Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma is possible and might have implications for future therapies. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 20:804-9. [PMID: 18617788 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e3282f2bbcc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a potentially challenging cancer with very high mortality. Medical therapies are generally ineffective in achieving complete remission, especially for aggressive types or for advanced stage cancers. Spontaneous regression of these tumors is a rare and fascinating phenomenon. We describe such a patient with spontaneous regression of a large multi-focal hepatocellular carcinoma, and present a comprehensive review of the reported cases with a special emphasis on potential regression mechanisms.
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15
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Peddu P, Huang D, Kane PA, Karani JB, Knisely AS. Vanishing liver tumours. Clin Radiol 2007; 63:329-39. [PMID: 18275874 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2007.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2007] [Revised: 08/28/2007] [Accepted: 08/31/2007] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous resolution of liver tumours is a rare, but recognized entity that has been reported to occur within the spectrum of benign and malignant liver tumours occurring in both adult and paediatric population. The aetiology of this unusual phenomenon is not clearly understood. In this article we present case examples of various benign and malignant liver tumours that have regressed spontaneously without treatment together with a review of the literature, and a summary of the current understanding of the pathogenesis of these tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Peddu
- Department of Radiology, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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Ohtani H, Yamazaki O, Matsuyama M, Horii K, Shimizu S, Oka H, Nebiki H, Kioka K, Kurai O, Kawasaki Y, Manabe T, Murata K, Matsuo R, Inoue T. Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma: report of a case. Surg Today 2006; 35:1081-6. [PMID: 16341493 DOI: 10.1007/s00595-005-3066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2004] [Accepted: 03/15/2005] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma is an extremely rare phenomenon. A 69-year-old Japanese man with hepatitis C virus-related chronic hepatitis presented with a liver tumor. We diagnosed the tumor to be hepatocellular carcinoma in the course of spontaneous regression, by imaging studies and changes in the tumor markers. Because the possible presence of viable cancer cells could not be ruled out, we recommended surgery. He refused all treatments at first, but finally agreed to undergo surgery about 10 months after presentation. A hepatectomy was performed. Histologically, no viable tumor cells were found. In our case, the vascularity of the tumor according to the imaging findings was followed up during the clinical course. The patient is now doing well and without any evidence of recurrence at 37 months after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ohtani
- Department of Surgery, Osaka City General Hospital, 2-13-22 Miyakojimahondori, Japan
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17
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Yano Y, Yamashita F, Kuwaki K, Fukumori K, Kato O, Kiyomatsu K, Sakai T, Yamamoto H, Yamasaki F, Ando E, Sata M. Partial spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma: a case with high concentrations of serum lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive alpha fetoprotein. Kurume Med J 2006; 52:97-103. [PMID: 16422176 DOI: 10.2739/kurumemedj.52.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is rare. There are few reports discussing spontaneous regression associated with serum lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive alpha fetoprotein (AFP-L3). We describe a case of HCC with a high level of AFP-L3, which showed a rapid increase in alpha fetoprotein (AFP) concentration after partial spontaneous regression, and which was then treated successfully. A 71-year-old woman suffering from chronic hepatitis C underwent surgical resection for HCC. Preoperative concentrations of AFP fluctuated; subsequent to a transient decrease, a rapid increase in AFP was observed. AFP-L3 concentration was extremely high. The resected tissue consisted of encapsulated moderately differentiated HCC, subcapsular coagulation necrosis, and chronic active hepatitis. The postoperative course was uneventful. At present, 24 months after diagnosis, no symptoms or signs of tumor recurrence or metastasis have been observed. Although the precise etiology of the spontaneous regression in this patient is not known, we speculate that spontaneous regression of tumor cells with high malignant potential may be related to arterial involvement and insufficient blood supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoichi Yano
- Department of Medicine, Saga Social Insurance Hospital, Saga 849-8522, Japan.
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18
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Blondon H, Fritsch L, Cherqui D. Two cases of spontaneous regression of multicentric hepatocellular carcinoma after intraperitoneal rupture: possible role of immune mechanisms. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2004; 16:1355-9. [PMID: 15618845 DOI: 10.1097/00042737-200412000-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
We report two cases of spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Firstly, a 64-year-old man with alcohol related cirrhosis developed multiple liver tumours with elevation of the alpha-fetoprotein level at 915 ng/ml. A spontaneous regression of all the tumoural masses but one and normalization of the alpha-fetoprotein level was observed after intraperitoneal spread of the malignancy. Resection of the remaining tumour 9 months later confirmed a hepatocellular carcinoma. Secondly, a 70-year-old woman with alcohol related cirrhosis developed multiple liver tumours with elevation of the alpha-fetoprotein level to 4000 ng/ml; a regression of all the tumoural masses but one and a decrease of the alpha-fetoprotein level to 400 ng/ml was observed after intraperitoneal spread of the malignancy and treatment with tamoxifen. We discuss a possible immune mechanism of tumoural regression with a review of similar cases described in the literature.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/diagnostic imaging
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- Female
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Regression, Spontaneous/immunology
- Neoplasm Regression, Spontaneous/pathology
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/diagnostic imaging
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/immunology
- Neoplasms, Multiple Primary/pathology
- Peritoneal Diseases/diagnostic imaging
- Peritoneal Diseases/pathology
- Rupture, Spontaneous/diagnostic imaging
- Rupture, Spontaneous/pathology
- Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Blondon
- Department of Hepato-gastroenterology, Centre Hospitalier, Montargis, France.
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Zimmermann A, Kappeler A, Friess H, Büchler MW. Hepatocellular carcinoma with an unusual medullary-like histology and signs of regression ("medullary-like hepatocellular carcinoma"). Dig Liver Dis 2002; 34:748-53. [PMID: 12469803 DOI: 10.1016/s1590-8658(02)80027-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The case of a variant of hepatocellular carcinoma is described, which, based on its unique histology, we propose to term, medullary-like hepatocellular carcinoma. It developed in a 56-year-old male patient with liver cirrhosis, and consisted of large, amphophilic cells with a solid growth pattern. The tumour was densely infiltrated with lymphocytes and plasma cells. Lymphocytes formed a mixture of B and T cells, and plasma cells were polytypic. In addition, numerous S-100 protein-reactive stellate cells were observed at the tumour border, where marked apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells was evident. In areas of dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, part of the tumour cells had lost their intercellular connections and their beta-catenin reactivity. Some tumour cells expressed FasL, but not Fas. The tumour exhibited several foci of regression, showing small remnants of damaged tumour cells within dense infiltrations. The patient is alive without evidence of disease 25 months after resection. Medullary-like hepatocellular carcinoma is a lesion which mimics several features known for other medullary carcinomas, including a marked immune response which may be responsible for partial regression of this tumour.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zimmermann
- Institute of Pathology, University of Berne, Switzerland.
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Quaglia A, Bhattacharjya S, Dhillon AP. Limitations of the histopathological diagnosis and prognostic assessment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Histopathology 2001; 38:167-74. [PMID: 11207830 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2559.2001.01000.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Quaglia
- Department of Histopathology, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, London, UK
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Luciani A, Rahmouni A, Achab H, Mathieu D, Jazaerli N, Bouanane M. CT demonstration of the spontaneous regression of a hypervascular lesion in cirrhotic liver. Cancer Imaging 2001; 1:1-3. [PMID: 18203671 PMCID: PMC4448338 DOI: 10.1102/1470-7330.2001.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients with liver cirrhosis, arterial phase enhancement of nodular lesions on helical-CT is currently considered to be highly predictive of malignancy. We report the spontaneous regression of a hypervascular hepatic nodule in a patient with liver cirrhosis within 7 months demonstrated by helical-CT follow-up. This suggests that tumor angiogenesis known to be an obligatory step for acquisition of malignant properties could regress, and can be demonstrated by helical CT. Radiologists should be aware that CT detection of a hypervascular nodule in a cirrhotic liver is not always predictive of a malignant outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Luciani
- Service de Radiologie, Hopital Henri Mondor, 51, Avenue du Marechal de Lattre de Tassigny, 94010 Creteil, France
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Takeda Y, Togashi H, Shinzawa H, Miyano S, Ishii R, Karasawa T, Takeda Y, Saito T, Saito K, Haga H, Matsuo T, Aoki M, Mitsuhashi H, Watanabe H, Takahashi T. Spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma and review of literature. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2000; 15:1079-86. [PMID: 11059943 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1746.2000.02202.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A 68-year-old man presented with multiple hepatocellular carcinoma, which was considered to be unresectable at the first admission in January 1994. Pathological diagnosis was made by biopsy of the one lesion among them. From January 1994 to December 1997, 10 transarterial chemoembolizations and six percutaneous ethanol injection therapies were performed on the tumours in the cirrhotic liver. In February 1998 the tumour situated in the right lobe began to increase in size. The maximum tumour diameter was 6.3 cm measured by computed tomography (CT). In the beginning of May 1998 moderate ascites was present and mild hepatic encephalopathy was noticed. The patient was in the terminal stage of hepatocellular carcinoma and no further treatment was possible at that time. However, serum alpha-fetoprotein and protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonist II dramatically decreased in June 1998. The CT scan also showed that the tumour had completely regressed without specific treatment. In February 1999 a new biopsy-proven hepatocellular carcinoma, 2 cm in diameter, developed in the lateral segment of the liver. It was well treated by percutaneous ethanol injection therapy. The patient was alive in good condition without any symptoms or tumour recurrence in June 1999. It was concluded that a rare case of spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma had occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Takeda
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Yamagata University School of Medicine, Japan
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