Adjuvant Therapy for Resected Biliary Tract Cancer: ASCO Clinical Practice Guideline

National Cancer Database analysis of gallbladder cancer: Evaluating survival benefit of chemotherapy in early-stage gallbladder cancer

BACKGROUND

For locally advanced gallbladder cancer, previous clinical studies have demonstrated that chemotherapy results in significant survival benefits when compared to surgery alone. However, data demonstrating a similar survival benefit with early-stage gallbladder cancer is limited. This study seeks to evaluate the impact chemotherapy has on survival in patients with early-stage gallbladder cancer using a large, multi-institution database.

AIM

To investigate the survival benefit of chemotherapy in patients with stage II gallbladder cancer.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective multivariable analysis of the National Cancer Database from 2010 to 2017 to evaluate the effect that chemotherapy has on the survival of patients with stage II gallbladder cancer. Our objective was to determine if there were any statistically significant survival differences between those who received surgery and chemotherapy vs those who only underwent surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 899 patients with stage II gallbladder cancer, 328 patients had undergone chemotherapy and surgery. The average overall survival for those who had surgery and chemotherapy vs only surgery was 52.6 months and 51.1 months, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.2). In the secondary analysis, the surgical group who had a liver resection had better overall survival (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Practitioners should carefully consider chemotherapy for early-stage gallbladder cancer, as risks may outweigh survival benefits, and surgeons should also consider liver resections as part of their surgical management.

Incidental Gallbladder Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

PURPOSE

Patients undergoing cholecystectomy for a presumed benign disease may present with histopathology report revealing carcinoma in the gallbladder specimen, in which case it is referred to as incidental gallbladder cancer (IGBC). This review highlights the approach to evaluation and management of these patients.

METHODS

Available literature from various sources has been reviewed and presented in a narrative format.

RESULTS

Early referral to a tertiary centre for appropriate staging and definitive management is paramount. Once distant metastasis is ruled out, re-resection is indicated in patients with pathological T-stage ≥T1b with the aim to attain R0 resection, and perform complete staging lymphadenectomy, and has been shown to confer survival benefit. Feasibility and safety of minimally invasive approaches have been demonstrated in recent years. Role of peri-operative chemo(radio)-therapy in IGBC remains uncertain and prospective trials are warranted.

CONCLUSION

IGBC is being increasingly diagnosed as the number of cholecystectomies for presumed benign diseases is steadily increasing globally. Overall prognosis depends on the stage and is especially poor in those with residual disease at re-operation.

Adjuvant Cytotoxic Chemotherapy may not be Associated with a Survival Advantage for Resected Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Randomized data suggest improved survival with adjuvant chemotherapy for biliary tract cancers; however, subset analyses of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHC) show limited survival benefit. This study evaluated the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy on recurrence patterns and overall survival (OS) in patients with resected IHC.

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative-intent resection for IHC were identified within a bi-institutional dataset and the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Patients were stratified by receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy. Site of first recurrence was categorized as liver only, regional, distant, or multifocal. Survival outcomes within each dataset were compared using Kaplan-Meier methods.

RESULTS

In the bi-institutional dataset, 347 patients underwent resection for IHC, and 149 (43%) patients received adjuvant cytotoxic chemotherapy. Recurrence was observed in 222 (64.0%) patients. OS was similar between groups (adjuvant vs. observation: 42 vs. 49 months; p = 0.13), and did not differ in patients who received capecitabine specifically (p = 0.09) or in a risk-adjusted multivariable analysis. Recurrence-free survival was worse in those who received adjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.04), although the liver was the most common site of recurrence in both groups (0.63). A similar analysis of 1159 resected IHCs from the NCDB also demonstrated no association between adjuvant chemotherapy and OS (49 vs. 57 months; p = 0.1).

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant chemotherapy may not be associated with improved OS in IHC and did not have an impact on hepatic recurrence in this retrospective analysis. Future investigation to identify more effective adjuvant systemic regimens and/or explore the potential role of adjuvant liver-directed therapies to reduce hepatic recurrence that may improve OS for IHC is warranted.

Impact of Resection Margins and Adjuvant Therapy on Survival Outcomes in Lymph Node-Negative Distal Cholangiocarcinoma

The prognostic value of the resection margin (RM) status and the efficacy of adjuvant therapy (AT) in distal cholangiocarcinoma (CCC) are unclear. RM status appears particularly impactful in lymph node-negative distal CCC, representing early-stage disease. The prognostic value of RM status was investigated, and subpopulations of patients with lymph node-negative distal CCC who might benefit from AT were identified. Overall, 139 patients with distal CCC who underwent surgical resection between March 2006 and December 2023 were analyzed. RM status was categorized as wide (>5 mm) in 65 patients (46.8%), close (≤5 mm) in 32 patients (23.0%), or positive in 42 patients (30.2%). AT was administered to 48 patients (34.5%). Patients with close or positive RMs achieved significantly lower locoregional control (LRC) than those with wide RMs. However, overall survival (OS) did not differ across the three RM groups. The impact of RM status was more evident in patients not receiving AT. Patients with wide RMs exhibited better 3-year LRC, progression-free survival (PFS), and OS rates (79.0%, 66.5%, and 69.1%, respectively) than those with close (21.7%, 15.7%, and 34.4%) or positive RMs (44.3%, 25.3%, and 50.2%, respectively). No significant differences were found between close and positive RM groups. AT appears to have improved LRC and PFS in patients with close or positive RMs but not in those with wide RMs. Close RMs were associated with poor outcomes comparable to those with positive RMs. These results indicate that achieving adequate RM width is crucial for improving survival. Moreover, AT may improve survival when adequate RMs cannot be achieved. Nonetheless, larger studies are needed to validate these findings.

Efficacy of Conversion Surgery for Initially Unresectable Biliary Tract Cancer That Has Responded to Down-Staging Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Due to the limited efficacy of chemotherapy alone in the treatment of unresectable biliary tract cancer, we performed conversion surgery in patients with unresectable biliary tract cancer who responded to down-staging chemotherapy.

METHODS

Patients with unresectable biliary tract cancer who initiated chemotherapy between 2007 and 2018 were included in this study. We evaluated the short- and long-term outcomes of patients with initially unresectable biliary tract cancer who underwent conversion surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients with unresectable biliary tract cancers treated with chemotherapy were eligible for the present study. A total of 20 patients eventually underwent conversion surgery; these patients had locally advanced disease in 6 cases, liver metastasis in 6 cases, para-aortic lymph node metastasis in 5 cases, and peritoneal dissemination in 3 cases. The mean operative time was 823 min, and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 1902 mL. Histological R0 resections were performed in 17 patients. Postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo grade IIIa or higher occurred in 10 patients, with no surgery-associated deaths. The 5-year survival rate was significantly higher in patients who underwent conversion surgery (65.0%) than in those who did not (4.3%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Conversion surgery for initially unresectable biliary tract cancer resulted in favorable overall survival and was safely performed despite its high surgical invasiveness. Conversion surgery for an initially unresectable biliary tract cancer is worth considering.

A Multicenter Retrospective Study on Adjuvant S-1 Chemotherapy Versus Observation Following Major Hepatectomy for Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The prognosis of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) is poor even after curative resection, highlighting the need for effective adjuvant chemotherapy. The efficacy of adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy following major hepatectomy for PHC is unclear, and thus the aim of this study was to elucidate this.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with PHC who underwent major hepatectomy (hemihepatectomy or trisectionectomy extending to segment 1 with extrahepatic bile duct resection) at three high-volume centers in Japan from 2007 to 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients with Clavien-Dindo grade V complications, pStage 0, I, or IVB disease, and those who underwent adjuvant radiation therapy were excluded from analysis. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to compare the disease-specific survival (DSS) of patients who underwent adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy with those who underwent observation.

RESULTS

Overall, 373/480 patients were eligible, of whom 81 underwent adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy and 146 underwent observation. In the global cohort, DSS was similar in the S-1 and observation groups (p = 0.18), while in the matched cohort (S-1, n = 44; observation, n = 44), DSS was similar between the S-1 and observation groups (p = 0.09). On multivariate analysis, percutaneous biliary drainage (PTBD), CA19-9 levels of ≥ 300 U/mL at operation, and lymph node (LN) metastasis were independent predictors of poor survival following major hepatectomy for PHC. In subgroup analysis of patients with LN metastasis, DSS was better in the S-1 group than in the observation group (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant S-1 chemotherapy following major hepatectomy might be effective in PHC patients with LN metastasis.

Global, regional, and national burden of gallbladder and biliary tract cancer, 1990 to 2021 and predictions to 2045: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study 2021

BACKGROUND

Identifying past, present, and future temporal trends in gallbladder and biliary tract cancer (GBTC) can increase public awareness and promote changes in prevention and treatment strategies.

METHODS

The incidence and death rates of GBTC between 1990 and 2021 were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease study 2021 and assessed according to country, region, year, age, and sex. Time trends were measured using the average annual percentage change (AAPC) and projections of the burden of disease for 2022 to 2045 were made using the Bayesian age-period-cohort model.

RESULTS

In 2021, there were 216,768.3 new cases (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 181,888.0-245,237.6) and 171,961.2 deaths (95% UI, 142,351.8-194,238.4) in GBTC globally. The increases in incidence and deaths were 101.09% and 74.26%, respectively, compared with 1990. The GBTC burden was higher in females and older adults. However, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardized death rate (ASDR) trended downward from 1990 to 2021, with AAPC at -0.39 (95% CI, -0.52 to -0.26) and -0.88 (95% CI, -0.96 to -0.79), respectively. Although the ASIR and ASDR for both sexes are projected to decline gradually from 2022 to 2045, the incidence and deaths are expected to increase steadily. In addition, the global proportion of GBTC deaths owing to high body mass index in 2021 was 12.66% for females and 10.48% for males, which did not change significantly from 1990.

CONCLUSION

GBTC is becoming a major global health burden, especially among females and older adults. Given the increasing burden of an aging population, there is a need to reduce the incidence of this disease by adopting effective strategies and measures targeting risk factors.

Umbrella review of adjuvant photodynamic therapy for cholangiocarcinoma palliative treatment

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma is a rare and often fatal malignancy. Numerous studies have demonstrated promising outcomes and survival rates associated with adjuvant photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the palliative treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically evaluate the existing meta-analyses on PDT for cholangiocarcinoma, assessing evidence quality and strength while performing updated meta-analyses to refine survival outcomes.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched up to September 18, 2024, to identify meta-analyses and clinical studies on PDT in patients with cholangiocarcinoma. The random-effects model was employed to re-synthesize existing meta-analyses, with a comprehensive evaluation of methodological quality. Updated meta-analyses of survival data were conducted, including subgroup analyses stratified by cholangiocarcinoma type and intervention modality.

RESULTS

A total of 5 meta-analyses and 21 clinical studies were included. The findings indicated that combining PDT with stenting or chemotherapy can significantly improve overall survival in patients with cholangiocarcinoma and reduce mortality rate, without increasing the risk of adverse events (AEs) such as cholangitis or abscess formation. For extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, adding PDT to stenting demonstrated a notable improvement in the 2-year survival rate. Meanwhile, for hilar cholangiocarcinoma, the addition of chemotherapy to PDT showed a more pronounced enhancement in the 1-year survival rate.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence indicates that PDT combined with stenting or chemotherapy in the palliative treatment of cholangiocarcinoma decreases overall mortality and enhances OS without increasing the incidence of AEs. Adding PDT to stenting or chemotherapy may be more beneficial for long-term efficacy.

The efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy for curative resected biliary tract cancers: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Despite complete resection, the recurrence rate of biliary tract cancer (BTC) remains high, leading to poor prognosis. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) following radical resection may substantially reduce the recurrence risk by eradicating micrometastatic lesions. However, the benefits of postoperative ACT and the optimal ACT strategy are still unclear for BTC. The objectives of this study are to evaluate the prognostic value of ACT and compare the effectiveness of different ACTs among BTC patients after curative resection.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the benefits of ACT versus no intervention or other ACTs in BTC patients after curative resection. A random-effects network meta-analysis was performed to compare overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS). The quality of evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework.

RESULTS

Eight RCTs comprising 1803 patients were included in the meta-analysis. ACT was associated with significant improvements in 5-year all-cause mortality [four RCTs, hazard rate (HR) 0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.87-1.00, marginally significant; low-certainty evidence], RFS (five RCTs, HR 0.87; 95% CI, 0.78-0.98; moderate-certainty evidence), and OS (7 studies, HR 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75-0.96; low-certainty evidence) compared with observation. ACT had significantly better survival benefits on patients with negative margins (R0), lymph node-positive (N+), and tumor node metastasis classification (TNM) stage I/II ( P < 0.05). Further network meta-analysis demonstrated that fluorouracil-based ACT was significantly inferior to gemcitabine-based ACT (HR 1.20; 95% CI, 1.10-1.25) in improving RFS. However, both were superior to observation ( P < 0.05). No statistical difference in OS was observed between gemcitabine-based and fluorouracil-based chemotherapy (HR 1.00; 95% CI, 0.86-1.20). In subgroup analysis, fluorouracil-based ACT but not gemcitabine-based ACT achieved significantly better OS benefits on patients with N+ (HR 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52-0.86) and R0 (HR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.88).

CONCLUSION

Compared with observation, ACT should be routinely recommended to improve survival outcomes in BTC patients after curative resection, especially for those with R0, N+, and TNM stage I/II. Gemcitabine-based ACT performed better than other chemotherapies in improving RFS. This network meta-analysis provides precise information for determining the best adjuvant treatment for resected BTC. Further thorough and high-quality RCTs are needed.

Surgical management, including the role of transplantation, for intrahepatic and peri-hilar cholangiocarcinoma

Intrahepatic and peri-hilar cholangiocarcinoma are life threatening disease with poor outcomes despite optimal treatment currently available (5-year overall survival following resection 20-35%, and <10% cured at 10-years post resection). The insidious onset makes diagnosis difficult, the majority do not have a resection option and the high recurrence rate post-resection suggests that occult metastatic disease is frequently present. Advances in perioperative management, such as ipsilateral portal vein (and hepatic vein) embolisation methods to increase the future liver remnant volume, genomic profiling, and (neo)adjuvant therapies demonstrate great potential in improving outcomes. However multiple areas of controversy exist. Surgical resection rate and outcomes vary between centres with no global consensus on how 'resectable' disease is defined - molecular profiling and genomic analysis could potentially identify patients unlikely to benefit from resection or likely to benefit from targeted therapies. FDG-PET scanning has also improved the ability to detect metastatic disease preoperatively and avoid futile resection. However tumours frequently invade major vasculo-biliary structures, with resection and reconstruction associated with significant morbidity and mortality even in specialist centres. Liver transplantation has been investigated for very selected patients for the last decade and yet the selection algorithm, surgical approach and both value of both neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies remain to be clarified. In this review, we discuss the contemporary management of intrahepatic and peri-hilar cholangiocarcinoma.

Management of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a review for clinicians

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is an aggressive liver malignancy that arises from second-order biliary epithelial cells. Its incidence is gradually increasing worldwide. Well-known risk factors have been described, although in many cases, they are not identifiable. Treatment options are continuously expanding, but the prognosis of iCCA remains dismal. R0 liver resection remains the only curative treatment, but only a limited number of patients can benefit from it. Frequently, major hepatectomies are needed to completely remove the tumour. This could contraindicate surgery or increase postoperative morbidity in patients with chronic liver disease and small remnant liver volume. In cases of anticipated inadequate future liver remnant, regenerative techniques may be used to expand resectability. The role and extent of lymphadenectomy in iCCA are still matters of debate. Improvements in iCCA diagnosis and better understanding of genetic profiles might lead to optimized surgical approaches and drug therapies. The role of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies is broadening, gaining more and more acceptance in clinical practice. Combining surgery with locoregional therapies and novel drugs, such as checkpoint-inhibitors and molecular-targeted molecules, might improve treatment options and survival rates. Liver transplantation, after very poor initial results, is now receiving attention for the treatment of patients with unresectable very early iCCA (i.e. <2 cm) in cirrhotic livers, showing survival outcomes comparable to those of hepatocellular carcinoma. Ongoing prospective protocols are testing the efficacy of liver transplantation for patients with unresectable, advanced tumours confined to the liver, with sustained response to neoadjuvant treatment. In such a continuously changing landscape, the aim of our work is to review the state-of-the-art in the surgical and medical treatment of iCCA.

Digestive cancers: mechanisms, therapeutics and management

Cancers of the digestive system are major contributors to global cancer-associated morbidity and mortality, accounting for 35% of annual cases of cancer deaths. The etiologies, molecular features, and therapeutic management of these cancer entities are highly heterogeneous and complex. Over the last decade, genomic and functional studies have provided unprecedented insights into the biology of digestive cancers, identifying genetic drivers of tumor progression and key interaction points of tumor cells with the immune system. This knowledge is continuously translated into novel treatment concepts and targets, which are dynamically reshaping the therapeutic landscape of these tumors. In this review, we provide a concise overview of the etiology and molecular pathology of the six most common cancers of the digestive system, including esophageal, gastric, biliary tract, pancreatic, hepatocellular, and colorectal cancers. We comprehensively describe the current stage-dependent pharmacological management of these malignancies, including chemo-, targeted, and immunotherapy. For each cancer entity, we provide an overview of recent therapeutic advancements and research progress. Finally, we describe how novel insights into tumor heterogeneity and immune evasion deepen our understanding of therapy resistance and provide an outlook on innovative therapeutic strategies that will shape the future management of digestive cancers, including CAR-T cell therapy, novel antibody-drug conjugates and targeted therapies.

Detecting Early Recurrence With Circulating Tumor DNA in Stage I-III Biliary Tract Cancer After Curative Resection

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess (1) the prognostic value of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and (2) the ability of ctDNA to detect recurrence compared with standard surveillance in curatively resected early-stage biliary tract cancer (BTC).

METHODS

This retrospective, multicenter cohort study evaluated serial ctDNA testing for surveillance in patients with early-stage BTC after curative resection. We evaluated the relapse-free survival (RFS) by ctDNA positivity. The sensitivity of ctDNA in detecting a confirmed recurrence of BTC, defined as a biopsy-proven or true progression by radiographic tumor dynamics, was evaluated. The lead time was calculated from the first ctDNA detection to the confirmed recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 56 patients with curatively resected stage I-III BTC were included in this study, with a median follow-up of 12.8 months from the date of surgery. ctDNA detection during the molecular residual disease window period (median RFS, 6.6 months v not reached; hazard ratio [HR], 26 [95% CI, 2.6 to 265]; P < .0001) and during the surveillance period (median RFS, 19.3 months v not reached; HR, 20 [95% CI, 2.6 to 153]; P < .0001) were associated with poorer RFS. Sixteen patients had confirmed recurrence. ctDNA identified recurrence in 93.8.% (15/16) of the recurred patients with an average lead time of 3.7 months. Carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels did not show any significant correlation with RFS (HR, 1.17 [95% Cl, 0.24 to 5.71]; P = .844) in contrast to ctDNA.

CONCLUSION

The findings from our real-world cohort study revealed the (1) promising value of ctDNA as a prognostic biomarker for relapse in curatively resected BTC and (2) potential early detectability of recurrence by ctDNA compared with standard surveillance.

Ligustilide Inhibits the PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathway and Suppresses Cholangiocarcinoma Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion

BACKGROUND

Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, a renowned traditional Chinese medicine, has gained widespread recognition for its antitumor properties. Further investigation is warranted to determine whether ligustilide (LIG), which is extracted from this plant, can effectively inhibit tumors.

OBJECTIVES

We delved into the impact of LIG on cholangiocarcinoma cells, aiming to unravel the mechanisms underlying its effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cholangiocarcinoma cells (HuccT1 and RBE) were exposed to varying concentrations of LIG (2, 5, 10, 15, 20 μg/mL) for 24, 48, and 72 h. After identifying differentially expressed genes, stable transcription strains were utilized to explore LIG's antitumor mechanism. The inhibitory effects of LIG (5 μg/mL, 48 h) were assessed by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing, transwell migration, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. In vivo, experiments in NOG mice (Ac, Ac+LIG; five per group) evaluated LIG's antiproliferative efficacy (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection, 18-day period).

RESULTS

LIG significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration with IC50 5.08 and 5.77 μg/mL in HuccT1 and RBE cell lines at 48h, increased the expression of E-cadherin while decreased N-cadherin and the protein of PI3K/AKT pathway. Silenced NDRG1 (N-Myc downstream- regulated gene 1) attenuated these effects. In vivo, the AC+LIG group (LIG, 5 mg/kg, qd, 18 d) exhibited smaller tumor volumes compared to the Ac group. The expression of Ki-67 was significantly downregulated in the AC+LIG group.

CONCLUSION

For the first time, our study has revealed that LIG holds therapeutic potential for treating cholangiocarcinoma. These findings hold promise for advancing innovative therapeutic approaches in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. LIG may serve as a useful patent for treating CCA.

Cranial nerve III palsy induced by adjuvant capecitabine for cholangiocarcinoma

A man in his 70s with completely resected cholangiocarcinoma started adjuvant treatment with capecitabine chemotherapy. Within 3 weeks he developed complete left-sided ptosis with loss of ocular adduction, elevation and depression. There were no other neurological features; CT and MRI scans of the brain were normal. He had no history of diabetes and blood pressure was reasonably controlled. A diagnosis of capecitabine-induced cranial nerve III palsy was made and no further capecitabine was given. The patient's ptosis improved within a month and there was full resolution within 2 months. He continued with follow-up surveillance CT scans for cholangiocarcinoma. This is the first reported cranial nerve III palsy due to capecitabine, the aetiology of which is uncertain. It is important that clinicians are able to recognise this as a potential complication as capecitabine is commonly given in combination with other agents for various cancer types.

Disease burden of biliary tract cancer in 204 countries and territories, 1990-2021: A comprehensive demographic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

BACKGROUND

Biliary tract carcinomas (BTCs) are relatively rare but lethal primary malignant tumors derived from the biliary tract system. The burden of BTCs varies according to sex, age, region, and country, but limited attention has been paid to the burden of BTCs. We sought to explore the up-to-date data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) and expand findings by accessing the demographic features of BTC disease burden.

METHODS

Using the latest data from the GBD 2021, we evaluated and analyzed the distributions and patterns of BTC disease burden in various age groups, sexes, regions, and countries.

RESULTS

The number of incident cases, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) tended to increase and peaked at 216,770 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 181,890-245,240), 171,960 (95% UI: 142,350-194,240), and 3,732,100 (95% UI: 3,102,900-4,317,000) person-years, respectively, in 2021. However, the average global age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incident cases, deaths, and DALYs shrunk by -11.46% (95% UI: -21.91 to 3.35%), -24.09% (95% UI: -33.19 to 16.88%), and -26.25% (95% UI: -35.53 to 18.36%), respectively, from 1990 to 2021. Meanwhile, the male/female ratio (male per 100 female) of incidence, deaths, and DALYs changed from 76.40, 75.41, and 74.72 to 86.89, 79.11, and 82.29, respectively. In 2021, the highest number of incident cases, deaths, and DALYs occurred in East Asia. The top three highest incidences, deaths, and DALYs were observed in China, India, and Japan, and the highest ASRs were observed in Chile in 2021. Analysis of the Human Development Index along with disease burden estimates of BTCs also suggests that the burden of the disease is related to the level of comprehensive development of the society.

CONCLUSION

This study provided a comprehensive comparison of differences in the burden of disease across populations and over time, and further presented evidence concerning the formulation of prevention and control policies and etiologic studies for BTCs and proposed logical hypotheses to investigate.

Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder cancer is the most common biliary tract malignancy, often detected incidentally post-cholecystectomy or at an advanced stage, historically linked to a poor prognosis. Advances in minimally invasive surgery and systemic therapies have improved outcomes. Global incidence varies, with risk factors including gender, age, gallbladder disease history, and polyp size influencing malignancy risks. Management involves cross-sectional imaging, staging laparoscopy in select cases, and radical cholecystectomy with lymphadenectomy and adjuvant therapy, though its use is limited. Trials are ongoing assessing the role of neoadjuvant therapy. Prognosis depends on the tumor stage, with early detection crucial for long-term survival.

Systemic approaches in biliary tract cancers: a review in the era of multidirectional precision medicine

INTRODUCTION

Despite a rising incidence, biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are still considered a rare tumor entity. The disease's subtle clinical presentation and lack of effective early detection strategies often lead to a diagnosis at an advanced or unresectable stage, where curative options are limited.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides an overview of current systemic therapies and emerging novel approaches for BTC. For decades, the combination of gemcitabine with cisplatin (GemCis) has been the standard of care for palliative treatment. However, since 2020, the diagnostic and therapeutic landscape for BTC has evolved considerably, not only in the first-line setting but also beyond, driven by the development of clinical trials exploring immunotherapy and molecularly targeted agents. Due to the high frequency of targetable genetic alterations in BTC patients, there is a growing emphasis on obtaining tissue or liquid biopsy samples to identify markers like microsatellite instability and other actionable oncogenic driver genes.

EXPERT OPINION

Early initiation of systemic therapies in combination with multimodal approaches is essential for maximizing survival outcomes in patients with BTC.

Intra- and Peri-tumoral Radiomics Based on Dynamic Contrast Enhanced-MRI to Identify Lymph Node Metastasis and Prognosis in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) affects treatment strategies and prognosis. However, preoperative imaging is not reliable enough for identifying LNM.

PURPOSE

To develop and validate a radiomics nomogram based on dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)-MR images for identifying LNM and prognosis in iCCA.

STUDY TYPE

Retrospective.

SUBJECTS

Two hundred four patients with pathologically proven iCCA who underwent curative-intent resection and lymphadenectomy (training cohort: N = 107, internal test cohort: N = 46, and external test cohort: N = 51).

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

T1- and T2-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging and DCE imaging at 1.5 T or 3.0 T.

ASSESSMENT

Radiomics features were extracted from intra- and peri-tumoral regions on preoperative DCE-MR images. Imaging features were evaluated by three radiologists, and significant variables in univariable and multivariable regression analysis were included in clinical model. The best-performing radiomics signature and clinical characteristics (intrahepatic duct dilatation, MRI-reported LNM) were combined to build a nomogram. Patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups based on their nomogram scores (cutoff = 0.341). Patients were followed up for 1-102 months (median 12) after surgery, the overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were calculated.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration, decision curve, Delong test, Kaplan-Meier curves, log rank test. Two tailed P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The nomogram incorporating intra- and peri-tumoral radiomics features, intrahepatic duct dilatation and MRI-reported LNM obtained the best discrimination for LNM, with areas under the ROC curves of 0.946, 0.913, and 0.859 in the training, internal, and external test cohorts. In the entire cohort, high-risk patients had significantly lower RFS and OS than low-risk patients. High-risk of LNM was an independent factor of unfavorable OS and RFS.

DATA CONCLUSION

The nomogram integrating intra- and peri-tumoral radiomics signatures has potential to identify LNM and prognosis in iCCA.

EVIDENCE LEVEL

3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Individualizing care for patients with gallbladder cancer

The rarity and lack of Level I Evidence compromise our ability to care for patients with gallbladder cancer.

METHODS

NCDB cohort study of with resected Stage Groups IB-IVA gallbladder adenocarcinoma between 2004 and 2018. Patients were included.

RESULTS

8484 patients were included, median survival was 29.8 (CI 28.6-31.2); Stage IB: 67.0, Stage II: 36.6, and Stage III/IVA 18.4 months. A survival benefit was noted for surgery beyond cholecystectomy (Stage IB 105 vs. 36 months, HR 0.56, p < 0.001; Stage II 56 vs. 20 months, HR 0.72, p < 0.001; and Stage III/IVA 23.8 vs. 9.9 months, HR 0.67, p < 0.001) and chemoradiotherapy (Stage IB 102 vs. 64.8, HR 0.87, CI 0.62-1.23, p = 0.4; ' Stage II 49 vs. 33.5 months, HR 0.78, CI 0.68-0.91, p = 0.002; and Stage III/IVA 31 vs. 12.2 HR 0.60, CI 0.52-0.70, p < 0.001). Adjuvant chemotherapy improved survival in Stage III/IVA (20 vs. 12.2 months, HR 0.74, p < 0.001) but not Stage II and trend toward harm in Stage IB. A nomogram with created with these data.

CONCLUSION

Surgery beyond cholecystectomy provides a benefit to all. Adjuvant chemotherapy (Stage III and IVA) benefits and chemoradiotherapy (II, III, and IVA) only patients with higher stage disease.

Nomograms predicting benefit after immunotherapy in oral bifidobacteria supplementation ICC patients: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to develop nomograms for predicting outcomes following immunotherapy in patients diagnosed with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 75 ICC patients who received immunotherapy at Jinling Hospital and Drum Hospital. The discriminative power, accuracy, and clinical applicability of the nomograms were assessed using the concordance index (C-index), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA). The predictive performance of the nomograms for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Kaplan-Meier curves were also generated for validation purposes.

RESULTS

Multivariable analysis identified independent prognostic factors for OS, including CA19-9 levels, portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) grade, bifidobacteria administration, and surgery. The C-index of the nomogram for OS prediction was 0.722 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.661-0.783). Independent prognostic factors for PFS included CA19-9 levels, albumin, and bilirubin, with a C-index of 0.678 (95% CI: 0.612-0.743) for the nomogram predicting PFS. Calibration curves demonstrated strong concordance between predicted and observed outcomes, while DCA and Kaplan-Meier curves further supported the clinical utility of the nomogram.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram developed in this study demonstrated favorable performance in predicting the prognosis of ICC patients undergoing immunotherapy. Additionally, our findings, for the first time, identified probiotics as a potential prognostic marker for immunotherapy. This prognostic model has the potential to enhance patient selection for immunotherapy and improve clinical decision-making.

Adjuvant Therapy Use for Patients With Inadequately Resected T1b-T3 Gallbladder Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Up to 90% of patients undergo inadequate resection for incidentally diagnosed T1b-T3 gallbladder cancer (GBC). We evaluated whether adjuvant therapies (ATs) are associated with prolonged overall survival (OS) for patients undergoing inadequate resection of T1b-T3 GBC.

METHODS

Patients who underwent inadequate resection, defined as simple cholecystectomy, for T1b-T3, Nx-N2, and M0 GBC were identified from the National Cancer Database (2004-2016). Patient characteristics, variables associated with AT use, and OS were described using the chi-square test, multivariable logistical regression, Kaplan-Meier, and Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Of 1386 patients who met inclusion criteria, most received no AT (64%), 20% received chemotherapy (CT), and 16% received chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Patients who received no AT were generally older (51% ≥ 75 y) and had no comorbidities (65% Charlson Comorbidity Index 0). Among those who received AT, CRT rather than CT, tended to be employed for patients who were older (≥75 y) or had more comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥1). Patients with advanced disease (T3, positive lymph nodes, or positive margins) were more likely to receive CRT. For T1b-T3 GBC, any AT was associated with prolonged median OS compared to no AT (22 months versus 15 mo, P < 0.01). Relative to no AT, CT (hazard ratio 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.67-0.92) and CRT (0.59, 95% confidence interval 0.49-0.72) were associated with decreased risk of death.

CONCLUSIONS

AT was associated with prolonged OS for patients with inadequately resected T1b-T3 GBC. CRT may have a role in treatment for patients with high-risk disease following inadequate resection of T1b-T3 GBC.

Has Management of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Evolved with the Evidence? Trends and Practice Patterns from the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

Management of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHC) has advanced in recent decades, including randomized trial evidence supporting systemic therapy in the palliative and adjuvant setting. Mounting observational evidence suggests resection of IHC with multifocal disease (IHC-MF) or lymph node metastasis (IHC-LNM) should be limited. It is unknown how real-world practice has evolved in light of research advances. This study characterizes trends in management and outcomes of IHC without distant metastasis.

METHODS

We queried the National Cancer Database (NCDB) for patients treated for IHC without distant metastasis (M0) and identified subgroups with lymph node (cN1) or multifocal hepatic involvement (cT2b). Two-sided Cochran-Armitage tests evaluated trends in initial treating modality and perioperative chemotherapy. Logistic regression evaluated associations with choice of initial treating modality. Overall survival (OS) was evaluated by using Kaplan-Meier methods.

RESULTS

Between 2004 and 2020, 11,368 patients were treated for IHC without extrahepatic metastasis. Forty-three percent underwent resection. Initial management shifted from resection towards radiation or systemic therapy in IHC-MF and IHC-LNM. Use of perioperative chemotherapy increased from 39% pre-2010 to 70% in 2018-2020 (p < 0.001), most often delivered postoperatively. Across the entire cohort, median OS improved from 16 (95% confidence interval [CI] 15-18) to 27 months (95% CI 26-29). More modest improvements were observed in IHC-MF and IHC-LNM.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of perioperative chemotherapy has been widely adopted, predating randomized trial evidence in the adjuvant setting. Initial management of IHC-MF and IHC-LNM has shifted from resection to systemic and/or radiation therapy. While OS has improved overall, outcomes of IHC-MF and IHC-LNM remain poor, warranting further investigation.

Cholangiocarcinoma of the Middle Bile Duct: A Narrative Review

Resectable cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) arising from the middle of the extrahepatic biliary tree has historically been classified as perihilar or distal CCA, depending on the operation contemplated or performed, namely the associated hepatectomy or pancreaticoduodenectomy, respectively. Segmental bile duct resection is a less invasive alternative for select patients harboring true middle extrahepatic CCA (MCC). A small, yet growing body of literature has emerged detailing institutional experiences with bile duct resection versus pancreaticoduodenectomy or concomitant hepatectomy for MCC. Herein, we provide a brief overview of the epidemiology, preoperative evaluation, and emerging systemic therapies for MCC, and narratively review the existing work comparing segmental resection with pancreaticoduodenectomy or less commonly, hepatectomy, for MCC, with emphasis on the surgical management and oncologic implications of the approach used.

The pathological significance and potential mechanism of ACLY in cholangiocarcinoma

Background and aim

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare cancer, yet its incidence and mortality rates have been steadily increasing globally over the past few decades. Currently, there are no effective targeted treatment strategies available for patients. ACLY (ATP Citrate Lyase), a key enzyme in de novo lipogenesis, is aberrantly expressed in several tumors and is associated with malignant progression. However, its role and mechanisms in CCA have not yet been elucidated.

Methods

The expression of ACLY in CCA was assessed using transcriptomic profiles and tissue microarrays. Kaplan-Meier curves were employed to evaluate the prognostic significance of ACLY in CCA. Functional enrichment analysis was used to explore the potential mechanisms of ACLY in CCA. A series of assays were conducted to examine the effects of ACLY on the proliferation and migration of CCA cells. Ferroptosis inducers and inhibitors, along with lipid peroxide probes and MDA assay kits, were utilized to explore the role of ACLY in ferroptosis within CCA. Additionally, lipid-depleted fetal bovine serum and several fatty acids were used to evaluate the impact of fatty acids on ferroptosis induced by ACLY inhibition. Correlation analyses were performed to elucidate the relationship between ACLY and tumor stemness as well as tumor microenvironment.

Results

The expression of ACLY was found to be higher in CCA tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. Patients with elevated ACLY expression demonstrated poorer overall survival outcomes. ACLY were closed associated with fatty acid metabolism and tumor-initiating cells. Knockdown of ACLY did not significantly impact the proliferation and migration of CCA cells. However, ACLY inhibition led to increased accumulation of lipid peroxides and enhanced sensitivity of CCA cells to ferroptosis inducers. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were observed to inhibit the proliferation of ACLY-knockdown cells; nonetheless, this inhibitory effect was diminished when the cells were cultured in medium supplemented with lipid-depleted fetal bovine serum. Additionally, ACLY expression was negatively correlated with immune cell infiltration and immune scores in CCA.

Conclusion

ACLY promotes ferroptosis by disrupting the balance of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. ACLY may therefore serve as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for CCA.

Transforming pancreaticobiliary cancer treatment: Exploring the frontiers of adoptive cell therapy and cancer vaccines

Pancreaticobiliary cancer, encompassing malignancies of both the pancreatic and biliary tract, presents a formidable clinical challenge marked by a uniformly bleak prognosis. The asymptomatic nature of its early stages often leads to delayed detection, contributing to an unfavorable 5-year overall survival rate. Conventional treatment modalities have shown limited efficacy, underscoring the urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising avenue in the fight against pancreaticobiliary cancer. Strategies such as therapeutic vaccines and the use of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes have garnered attention for their potential to elicit more robust and durable responses. This review seeks to illuminate the landscape of emerging immunotherapeutic interventions, offering insights from both clinical and research perspectives. By deepening our understanding of pancreaticobiliary cancer and exploring innovative treatment modalities, we aim to catalyze improvements in patient outcomes and quality of life.

The impact of lymph node ratio on survival in gallbladder cancer: a national cancer database analysis

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to investigate the impact of lymph node ratio (LNR) on survival in patients with resectable gallbladder adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2020. We included patients with gallbladder adenocarcinoma who had undergone resection of the primary site as well as adequate lymphadenectomy. Exclusions comprised patients with distant metastasis and missing key data. LNR was calculated as a proportion of positive lymph nodes (LNs) to examined LNs.

RESULTS

Patients were stratified into LNR groups: LNR0 - 343 patients (55%); 168 (26.9%) patients with LNR < 30%; and 113 (18.1%) with LNR ≥ 30%. The mean age was 67.3 ± 10.7 years, with 71.6% being female and 75.8% identifying as white. The mean overall survival (OS) was 52.8 months for the LNR0 group, 36.3 months for LNR < 30%, and 27 months for LNR ≥ 30% (p < 0.001). The difference in survival was significant when adjusted for adjuvant chemotherapy status and surgical margins using Cox regression - HR 3.2 (2.4-4.5 95% CI) for LNR < 30% and HR 4.9 (3.5-6.8 95% CI) for LNR ≥ 30%.

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that LNR is a valuable prognostic factor for resectable gallbladder cancer patients and could potentially guide treatment decisions.

Facts and Hopes in the Systemic Therapy of Biliary Tract Carcinomas

Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are a heterogeneous group of cancers that continue to present a particularly poor prognosis. BTC treatment is rapidly evolving yet facing many challenges to improve patient outcomes and maximize benefit from treatment. Only a minority of patients are diagnosed with early-stage disease and are suitable for curative resection. Current surgical strategies are limited by a high relapse rate, and despite extensive efforts focused on adjuvant strategies, the development of more effective adjuvant strategies remains a challenge. In addition, the role of locoregional strategies, liver transplant, and neoadjuvant treatment remains unclear. Systemic treatment in the advanced setting is based on three main pillars: first, cytotoxic chemotherapy options; second, the addition of immunotherapy to chemotherapy; and third, targeted therapies. The role of targeted therapies is oriented by many promising targets, including IDH1 mutations, FGFR2 fusions, BRAF-V600E mutations, and HER2 amplifications. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of current facts and future hopes in the management of BTC, including an overview of the unmet need, and particularly focus on systemic therapies.

Neoadjuvant therapy reduces node positivity but does not confer survival benefit versus up-front resection for resectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A propensity-matched analysis

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) is a treatment option for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), though its impact on short-term oncologic outcomes and long-term survival remains relatively unknown.

METHODS

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) between 2004 and 2019 was queried for patients with reportedly resectable (Stage I-IIIB) iCCA who received curative-intent resection with lymphadenectomy. Propensity matching was performed between groups based on the use of NAST and groups were compared for overall survival (OS) and oncologic outcomes, including nodal harvest, rate of node positivity, rate of positive margins, and administration of adjuvant therapy.

RESULTS

Two thousand and five hundred ninety-six patients met inclusion criteria; 364 (14%) received NAST versus 1763 (68%) up-front resection. After matching, 332 pairs of patients were matched between NAST and no NAST. Patients receiving NAST had a greater nodal harvest (OR = 1.26 [1.09-1.88]; p < 0.001) and a lower rate of node positivity (OR = 0.67 [0.49-0.63]; p < 0.001). Patients without NAST were more likely to complete adjuvant systemic therapy (OR = 0.45 [0.33-0.62]; p < 0.001). However, patients receiving NAST had no OS benefit after resection compared to those who did not receive NAST (median OS 48.3 ± 5.3 vs. 38.8 ± 3.7 months; p = 0.160). Node-positive disease (OR = 2.10 [1.78-2.45]; p < 0.001) conferred the greatest risk for reduced OS followed by positive-margin resection (OR = 1.42 [1.21-1.47]; p < 0.001) and increasing T-stage (OR = 1.34 [1.21-1.47]; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

NAST for iCCA was associated with improved quality of oncologic resection but did not confer an OS benefit versus up-front resection.

Research progress and prospect of postoperative adjuvant therapy for resectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second most common primary malignancy of the liver, following hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Surgical resection remains the only potentially curative treatment for ICC. However, due to its high malignancy and propensity for postoperative recurrence, the prognosis for ICC is generally poor, and there is currently little standardized approach for adjuvant therapy following curative surgery. This article aims to explore adjuvant treatment strategies for ICC post-curative surgery by reviewing retrospective studies and clinical trials conducted in recent years. The analysis focuses on the effectiveness, challenges, and potential developments in the management of ICC post-surgery, considering the high recurrence rates and the need for improved therapeutic approaches to enhance patient outcomes. Additionally, we discuss the various types of adjuvant treatments that have been explored, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and highlight promising directions for future research to improve survival and quality of life for ICC patients.

Adjuvant Chemoradiation in Resected Biliary Adenocarcinoma: Evaluation of SWOG S0809 with a Large National Database

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of evidence supporting the use of adjuvant radiation therapy in resected biliary cancer. Supporting evidence for use comes mainly from the small SWOG S0809 trial, which demonstrated an overall median survival of 35 months. We aimed to use a large national database to evaluate the use of adjuvant chemoradiation in resected extrahepatic bile duct and gallbladder cancer.

METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, we selected patients from 2004 to 2017 with pT2-4, pN0-1, M0 extrahepatic bile duct or gallbladder adenocarcinoma with either R0 or R1 resection margins, and examined factors associated with overall survival (OS). We examined OS in a cohort of patients mimicking the SWOG S0809 protocol as a large validation cohort. Lastly, we compared patients who received chemotherapy only with patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation using entropy balancing propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Overall, 4997 patients with gallbladder or extrahepatic bile duct adenocarcinoma with available survival information meeting the SWOG S0809 criteria were selected, 469 of whom received both adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Median OS in patients undergoing chemoradiation was 36.9 months, and was not different between primary sites (p = 0.841). In a propensity score matched cohort, receipt of adjuvant chemoradiation had a survival benefit compared with adjuvant chemotherapy only (hazard ratio 0.86, 95% confidence interval 0.77-0.95; p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Using a large national database, we support the findings of SWOG S0809 with a similar median OS in patients receiving chemoradiation. These data further support the consideration of adjuvant multimodal therapy in resected biliary cancers.

Case report: Translational treatment of unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Tislelizumab, Lenvatinib, and GEMOX in one case

Background

Intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma (ICC) is one of the most common invasive malignancies. Currently, ICC is treated with radical surgical resection. However, the majority of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making surgery ineligible for them.

Case presentation

We present a case of advanced ICC, which could not undergo radical surgery due to tumor invasion of liver blood vessels. The gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GEMOX) regimen combined with Tislelizumab immunotherapy and Lenvatinib targeted therapy for 8 cycles resulted in significant tumor shrinkage significantly and the vascular invasion disappeared. CA19-9 levels were reduced to normal levels. Partial remission and successful tumor transformation were achieved. The patient underwent a successful radical surgical resection, including cholecystectomy, resection of liver segments IV, V, and VIII, as well as a regional lymphatic dissection procedure, resulting in complete pathological remission.

Conclusion

Tumor-free surgical margins (R0) resection of patients with advanced ICC after combination of immune, targeted and chemotherapy is rare, and there are almost no cases of complete postoperative remission. The GEMOX regimen in combination with Tislelizumab and Lenvatinib has a good antitumor efficacy and safety profile, and may be a feasible and safe translational treatment option for advanced ICC.

The Recent Trends of Systemic Treatments and Locoregional Therapies for Cholangiocarcinoma

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a hepatic malignancy that has a rapidly increasing incidence. CCA is anatomically classified into intrahepatic (iCCA) and extrahepatic (eCCA), which is further divided into perihilar (pCCA) and distal (dCCA) subtypes, with higher incidence rates in Asia. Despite its rarity, CCA has a low 5-year survival rate and remains the leading cause of primary liver tumor-related death over the past 10-20 years. The systemic therapy section discusses gemcitabine-based regimens as primary treatments, along with oxaliplatin-based options. Second-line therapy is limited but may include short-term infusional fluorouracil (FU) plus leucovorin (LV) and oxaliplatin. The adjuvant therapy section discusses approaches to improve overall survival (OS) post-surgery. However, only a minority of CCA patients qualify for surgical resection. In comparison to adjuvant therapies, neoadjuvant therapy for unresectable cases shows promise. Gemcitabine and cisplatin indicate potential benefits for patients awaiting liver transplantation. The addition of immunotherapies to chemotherapy in combination is discussed. Nivolumab and innovative approaches like CAR-T cells, TRBAs, and oncolytic viruses are explored. We aim in this review to provide a comprehensive report on the systemic and locoregional therapies for CCA.

Is the Prognostic Nutritional Index a Novel Prognostic Factor in Patients With Unresectable/Metastatic Gallbladder and Cholangiocarcinoma Receiving Chemotherapy?

Gallbladder and biliary tract tumors are rare but highly fatal cancers. In patients diagnosed with unresectable/metastatic gallbladder cancer and cholangiocarcinomas, systemic chemotherapy is recommended if the patient's performance is good. Randomized studies on this subject are limited, and there is no standard treatment choice. The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is a measurement calculated using albumin and absolute lymphocyte value, reflecting the immunological and nutritional status of the cancer patient. The aim of our study is to evaluate the prognostic effectiveness of PNI in unresectable/metastatic gallbladder and biliary tract cancers. The PNI was calculated using albumin and lymphocyte values at the time of diagnosis (10 x albumin g/dL + 0.005 x total lymphocyte/mm3). The relationship between PNI and overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival was examined. The prognostic nutritional index means of the patients included in the study was 44.8 (95% CI: 42.9-46.7), and the median was 44.77 (minimum: 22, maximum: 61.4). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated a statistically significant prediction of patients' OS when the prognostic nutritional index was < 44 (AUC: 0.715, sensitivity: 54.8%, specificity: 33.3%; p=0.08). We evaluated the prognostic effectiveness of PNI in the subgroup of patients who could receive chemotherapy. In patients receiving chemotherapy, median survival was found to be 8.93 months in the PNI < 44 groups, while median survival was found to be 12.58 months in the PNI ≥ 44 group. The difference between both groups was statistically significant (p = 0.01). In univariate analysis, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, cancer antigen 19.9 (Ca 19.9), and PNI were statistically significant variables in predicting OS (p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, the ECOG performance status, cancer antigen 19.9 (Ca 19.9), and PNI were found to be independent factors in predicting OS (p < 0.05). We believe that PNI can be used as a marker to assist the clinician in evaluating the prognosis of patients in the clinic and predicting treatment tolerance.

The road to tailored adjuvant chemotherapy for all four non-pancreatic periampullary cancers: An international multimethod cohort study

BACKGROUND

Despite differences in tumour behaviour and characteristics between duodenal adenocarcinoma (DAC), the intestinal (AmpIT) and pancreatobiliary (AmpPB) subtype of ampullary adenocarcinoma and distal cholangiocarcinoma (dCCA), the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) on these cancers, as well as the optimal ACT regimen, has not been comprehensively assessed. This study aims to assess the influence of tailored ACT on DAC, dCCA, AmpIT, and AmpPB.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients after pancreatoduodenectomy for non-pancreatic periampullary adenocarcinoma were identified and collected from 36 tertiary centres between 2010 - 2021. Per non-pancreatic periampullary tumour type, the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy and the main relevant regimens of adjuvant chemotherapy were compared. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The study included a total of 2866 patients with DAC (n = 330), AmpIT (n = 765), AmpPB (n = 819), and dCCA (n = 952). Among them, 1329 received ACT, and 1537 did not. ACT was associated with significant improvement in OS for AmpPB (P = 0.004) and dCCA (P < 0.001). Moreover, for patients with dCCA, capecitabine mono ACT provided the greatest OS benefit compared to gemcitabine (P = 0.004) and gemcitabine - cisplatin (P = 0.001). For patients with AmpPB, no superior ACT regime was found (P > 0.226). ACT was not associated with improved OS for DAC and AmpIT (P = 0.113 and P = 0.445, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Patients with resected AmpPB and dCCA appear to benefit from ACT. While the optimal ACT for AmpPB remains undetermined, it appears that dCCA shows the most favourable response to capecitabine monotherapy. Tailored adjuvant treatments are essential for enhancing prognosis across all four non-pancreatic periampullary adenocarcinomas.

Long-term oncological results of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

INTRODUCTION

The effectiveness of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCA) remains insufficiently studied.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study including patients with histologically proven iCCA within Milan criteria treated by percutaneous RFA from 2000 to 2022. The primary outcome was overall survival in treatment-naive patients and secondary outcomes included ablation completeness, adverse events, local and distant recurrence. A total of 494 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on cirrhosis treated by RFA were included as a comparison group. Oncological events were analysed using Kaplan-Meier, log-rank and univariate/multivariate Cox models.

RESULTS

The main population included 71 patients, mostly cirrhotic (80%) with solitary tumours (66%) of a median size of 24 mm. Local recurrence was 45% at 5 years, lower in multibipolar versus monopolar RFA (22% vs. 55%, p = .007). In treatment-naive patients (n = 45), median overall and recurrence-free survivals were 26 and 11 months, respectively. Tumour size (p = .01) and Child-Pugh B (p = .001) were associated with death. The rate of distant recurrence was 59% at 5 years significantly lower for single tumours of less than 2 (p = .002) or 3 cm (p = .02). In cirrhotic patients naïve of previous treatment (n = 40), overall survival was shorter than in HCC (26 vs 68 months, p < .0001), with more local recurrences (p < .0001). Among distant recurrences, 50% were extrahepatic metastases compared to 12% in HCC (p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Multibipolar RFA provides better results in terms of tumour recurrence than monopolar RFA and could be used to treat small iCCA (<3 cm). Adjuvant chemotherapy should be discussed due to the frequent extra-hepatic metastasis at recurrence.

Clinical outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitor combined with other targeted or immunological therapy regimens for the treatment of advanced bile tract cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and aims

A single immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) regimen has limited value in treating advanced bile tract cancer (BTC); therefore, ICI combination therapy is often applied. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ICI combination therapy for advanced BTC.

Methods

The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023452422). Data on the median progression-free survival (PFS), median overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) reported in relevant studies were pooled and analyzed to determine the efficacy and safety of ICI combination therapy.

Results

In total, 15 studies with 665 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The overall ORR and DCR were 34.6% and 77.6%, respectively. The overall median PFS and OS were 6.06 months [95% confidence interval (CI): 4.91-7.21] and 12.11 months (95% CI: 10.66-13.55), respectively. Patients receiving ICI combination therapy in addition to other therapies had a considerably prolonged median PFS and OS (z=9.69, p<0.001 and z=16.17, p<0.001). Patients treated as first-line treatment had a substantially longer median PFS and OS compared to patients treated as non-first-line treatment (z=11.19, p<0.001 and z=49.17, p<0.001). The overall pooled grade ≥3 AEs rate was 38.2% (95% CI: 0.268-0.497) and was not influenced by whether ICI therapy was combined with other treatments or not or the treatment line.

Conclusion

Advanced BTC patients may benefit from ICI combination treatment without additional AEs. However, concurrent chemotherapy or radiotherapy is still needed to achieve better outcomes.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023452422.

The Current Role of Radiation in the Management of Cholangiocarcinoma-A Narrative Review

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare cancer of bile ducts. It is associated with a poor prognosis. The incidence of CCA is rising worldwide. Anatomical subgroups have been used to classify patients for treatment and prognosis. There is a growing understanding of clinically important distinctions based on underlying genetic differences that lead to different treatment options and outcomes. Its management is further complicated by a heterogeneous population and relative rarity, which limits the conduct of large trials to guide management. Surgery has been the primary method of therapy for localized disease; however, recurrence and death remain high with or without surgery. Therefore, there have been concerted efforts to investigate new treatment options, such as the use of neoadjuvant treatments to optimize surgical outcomes, targeted therapy, leveraging a new understanding of immunobiology and stereotactic radiation. In this narrative review, we address the evidence to improve suboptimal outcomes in unresectable CCA with radiation, as well as the role of radiation in neoadjuvant and postoperative treatment. We also briefly discuss the recent developments in systemic treatment with targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Prognostic risk factors in 113 patients undergoing cephalic duodenopancreatectomy for distal cholangiocarcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Distal cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant epithelial neoplasia that affects the extrahepatic bile ducts, below the cystic duct. No relevant relationship between perioperative factors and worse long-term outcome has been proved.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the risk factors for mortality and long-term recurrence of distal cholangiocarcinoma in resected patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-center prospective database of patients operated on for distal cholangiocarcinoma between 1990 and 2021 was analyzed in order to investigate mortality and recurrence factors.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirteen patients have undergone surgery, with mean actuarial survival of 100.2 (76-124) months after resection. The bivariate study did not show differences between patients depending on age or preoperative variables studied. When multivariate analysis was performed, the presence of affected adenopathy was a risk factor for long-term mortality. The presence of affected lymph nodes, tumor recurrence, and biliary fistula during the postoperative period implied worse actuarial survival when comparing the Kaplan-Meier curves.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of affected lymph nodes influence the prognosis of the disease. The occurrence of biliary fistula during postoperative cholangiocarcinoma distal could aggravate long-term outcomes, a finding that should be reaffirmed in future studies.

Anticancer properties and metabolomic profiling of Shorea roxburghii extracts toward gastrointestinal cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal cancer (GIC) ranks as the highest cause of cancer-related deaths globally. GIC patients are often diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting effective treatment options. Chemotherapy, the common GIC recommendation, has significant disadvantages such as toxicity and adverse effects. Natural products contain substances with diverse pharmacological characteristics that promise for use in cancer therapeutics. In this study, the flower of renowned Asian medicinal plant, Shorea roxburghii was collected and extracted to investigate its phytochemical contents, antioxidant, and anticancer properties on GIC cells.

METHODS

The phytochemical contents of Shorea roxburghii extract were assessed using suitable methods. Phenolic content was determined through the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while flavonoids were quantified using the aluminum chloride (AlCl3) method. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the FRAP and DPPH assays. Cytotoxicity was assessed in GIC cell lines via the MTT assay. Additionally, intracellular ROS levels and apoptosis were examined through flow cytometry techniques. The correlation between GIC cell viability and phytochemicals, 1H-NMR analysis was conducted.

RESULTS

Among the four different solvent extracts, ethyl acetate extract had the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents. Water extract exhibited the strongest reducing power and DPPH scavenging activity following by ethyl acetate. Interestingly, ethyl acetate extract demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity against three GIC cell lines (KKU-213B, HepG2, AGS) with IC50 values of 91.60 µg/ml, 39.38 µg/ml, and 35.59 µg/ml, while showing less toxicity to normal fibroblast cells. Ethyl acetate extract induced reactive oxygen species and apoptosis in GIC cell lines by downregulating anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Metabolic profiling-based screening revealed a positive association between reduced GIC cell viability and phytochemicals like cinnamic acid and its derivatives, ferulic acid and coumaric acid.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the potential of natural compounds in Shorea roxburghii in the development of more effective and safer anticancer agents as options for GIC as well as shedding light on new avenues for cancer treatment.

Current and Future Therapeutic Targets for Directed Molecular Therapies in Cholangiocarcinoma

We conducted a comprehensive review of the current literature of published data, clinical trials (MEDLINE; ncbi.pubmed.com), congress contributions (asco.org; esmo.org), and active recruiting clinical trains (clinicaltrial.gov) on targeted therapies in cholangiocarcinoma. Palliative treatment regimens were analyzed as well as preoperative and perioperative treatment options. We summarized the current knowledge for each mutation and molecular pathway that is or has been under clinical evaluation and discussed the results on the background of current treatment guidelines. We established and recommended targeted treatment options that already exist for second-line settings, including IDH-, BRAF-, and NTRK-mutated tumors, as well as for FGFR2 fusion, HER2/neu-overexpression, and microsatellite instable tumors. Other options for targeted treatment include EGFR- or VEGF-dependent pathways, which are known to be overexpressed or dysregulated in this cancer type and are currently under clinical investigation. Targeted therapy in CCA is a hallmark of individualized medicine as these therapies aim to specifically block pathways that promote cancer cell growth and survival, leading to tumor shrinkage and improved patient outcomes based on the molecular profile of the tumor.

Initial investigation on ultrasound-guided percutaneous biopsy of lesions in the first hepatic hilum with fusion of ultrasound and multimodal imaging cognitive guidance

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided percutaneous biopsy of the first hepatic hilum lesion, and examine its clinical value of diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on patients diagnosed with the first hepatic hilum lesions at Fujian Provincial Hospital between February 2015 and October 2022. We selected patients who had lesions in the first hepatic hilum(including a 2cm surrounding area of the left/right hepatic ducts and upper-middle segment of the common bile duct) and the liver periphery(in the peripheral area of the liver, outside of the above-mentioned first hepatic porta region). These patients underwent percutaneous ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy (PUS-CNB) with cognitive fusion guidance using CT, MRI, or PET-CT. We compared the safety and efficacy of PUS-CNB in the first hepatic hilum and the liver periphery to explore the value of PUS-CNB in optimizing the clinical treatment of the first hepatic hilum lesions.

Results

The studied includes 38 cases of the first hepatic hilum cases (18 females; 20 males), 23 presented with mass-forming tumors while the remaining 15 exhibited diffuse infiltrative tumors, with an average diameter of 4.65± 2.51 cm. The percutaneous biopsy procedure, conducted under ultrasound guidance, had an average operation time of 14.55 ± 2.73 minutes, and resulted in a postoperative bleeding volume of approximately 10.79 ± 2.79 ml. The diagnostic success rate was noted to be as high as 92.11% among the participants who underwent percutaneous biopsy of the first hepatic hilum. Procedural complications, such as bleeding, bile leakage, intestinal perforation, infection or needle tract seeding, did not occur during or after the biopsy procedure. Affected by biopsy results, 5 altered their clinical treatment plans accordingly, 24patients received non-surgical treatment, 9 underwent surgical treatment, 5 underwent radiofrequency ablation for the lesions. The study comprised a total of 112 cases for percutaneous biopsy of the liver periphery. The safety and effectiveness of the two biopsy techniques were comparable, with diagnostic success rates of 92.11% VS. 94.34%, respectively (p = 0.61).

Conclusion

Cognitive fusion of ultrasound and multi-modal imaging for the first hepatic hilum lesion puncture biopsy is a safe and effective diagnostic procedure, with better diagnostic rate, may improve clinical value of diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.

Real-world experience supporting the role of oncologic resection and adjuvant chemotherapy in biliary tract cancers

Background

Complete resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy is the gold standard for patients with localized cholangiocarcinoma (CC) or gallbladder cancer (GBC). However, this is not always feasible, and recurrence rates remain high.

Objectives

To understand the real-world proportions and reason for treatment failure in resected biliary tract cancers.

Design and methods

We performed a retrospective population-based review of patients with GBC or CC [intrahepatic (IHCC) or extrahepatic (EHCC)] resected between 2005 and 2019 using the BC Cancer provincial database. A chart review was conducted to characterize demographics, treatments received and outcomes.

Results

In total, 594 patients were identified of whom 416 (70%) had disease recurrence. Most GBCs (96%) were diagnosed incidentally, and repeat oncologic resection was performed in 45%. Adjuvant chemotherapy was received in 51% of patients diagnosed after 2017 (mostly capecitabine). Patient co-morbidities, disease progression and patient preference were the commonest reasons for not proceeding with adjuvant chemotherapy. One-third of patients did not complete all planned cycles. Median overall survival was significantly higher in those with complete (R0) versus incomplete (R1) resection [31.6 versus 18 months, hazard ratio (HR): 0.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.35-0.53] and in those with versus without re-resection for GBC [29.4 versus 19 months, HR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.41-0.73]. There was a trend towards improved survival with versus without adjuvant therapy (HR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.61-1.02). Only 25% in the more contemporary cohort (2017-2019) had an R0 resection and completed adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Complete resection, including reresection for incidentally diagnosed GBCs, and adjuvant chemotherapy were associated with improved outcomes in this retrospective cohort, yet many patients were not able to complete these treatments. Neoadjuvant strategies may improve treatment delivery and ultimately, outcomes.

MiR-380 inhibits the proliferation and invasion of cholangiocarcinoma cells by silencing LIS1

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine the role and regulatory mechanism of miR-380 in cholangiocarcinoma.

METHODS

The TargetScan database and a dual-luciferase reporter assay system were used to determine if LIS1 was a target gene of miR-380. The Cell Counting Kit 8 assay, flow cytometry, and Transwell assay were used to detect the effects of miR-380 and LIS1 on the proliferation, S-phase ratio, and invasiveness of HCCC-9810/HuCCT1/QBC939 cells. Western blotting was used to determine the effect of miR-380 on MMP-2/p-AKT. Immunohistochemistry detected the regulatory effect of miR-380 on the expression of MMP-2/p-AKT/LIS1.

RESULTS

Expression of miR-380 in cholangiocarcinoma was decreased but expression of LIS1 was increased. LIS1 was confirmed to be a target gene of miR-380. Transfection with miR-380 mimics inhibited the proliferation, S-phase arrest, and invasion of HCCC-9810/HuCCT1/QBC939 cells, and LIS1 reversed these inhibitory effects. miR-380 inhibitor promoted proliferation, S-phase ratio, and invasiveness of HCCC-9810/HuCCT1/QBC939 cells. si-LIS1 salvaged the promotive effect of miR-380 inhibitor. Overexpression of miR-380 inhibited expression of MMP-2/p-AKT/LIS1, but miR-380 inhibitor promoted their expression.

CONCLUSION

An imbalance of miR-380 expression is closely related to cholangiocarcinoma, and overexpression of miR-380 inhibits the expression of MMP-2/p-AKT by directly targeting LIS1.

Minimally Invasive Approach Provides Oncological Benefit in Patients with High Risk of Very Early Recurrence (VER) After Surgery for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA)

BACKGROUND

Surgery for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is jeopardized by significant risk of early recurrence (≤ 6 months). The aim of the present study is to analyze the oncological benefit provided by laparoscopic over open approach for iCCA in patients with high risk of very early recurrence (VER).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 532 liver resections (LR) were performed for iCCA [265 by minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and 267 with open approach, matched through a 1:1 propensity score] and stratified using the postoperative prediction model of VER. Outcomes were compared between open and laparoscopic approaches, specifically evaluating oncological benefit.

RESULTS

The percentage of patients with high risk of VER was similar (32.7% in the laparoscopic group and 35.3% in the open group, pNS). The number of retrieved nodes as well as the rate and depth of negative resection margins were comparable between laparoscopic and open. The surgery-adjuvant treatment interval was shorter in laparoscopic patients in the overall series, as well in the subgroup of high risk of VER. The rate of patients starting adjuvant treatments within 2 months from surgery was higher in laparoscopic group compared with open group. In VER high-risk group both disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were significantly improved in MIS compared with open group (p = 0.032 and p = 0.026, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with high risk of VER, laparoscopy translates into an advantage in terms of recurrence-free survival, likely related to lower biological impact of surgery, together with a shorter interval between surgery and start of adjuvant treatments, even allowing for a higher number of patients to start adjuvant therapies within 2 months from resection.

Survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with resected gallbladder adenocarcinoma: An updated retrospective cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

The rarity yet high malignancy of gallbladder adenocarcinoma (GBA) endows it with a distinctive nature. Radical resection remains the foremost therapeutic approach for GBA, while the impact of early recurrence and metastasis on patient prognosis necessitates the utilization of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC). Despite numerous previous studies on this topic, a consensus regarding the authentic efficacy of AC has yet to be reached.

METHODS

We conducted an updated retrospective cohort analysis utilizing data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database spanning from 2010 to 2020 to explore the association between AC and survival outcomes in patients with resected GBA.

RESULTS

Our study included 2782 patients from the SEER database, with further evaluation of 843 patients in each cohort following meticulous execution of a 1:1 propensity score matching. Remarkably, the AC cohort exhibited a significant survival advantage when juxtaposed against the non-AC cohort. Multivariable Cox regression analysis identified age at diagnosis, year at diagnosis, grade, AJCC T stage, AJCC N stage as well as AC as independent prognostic factors. Furthermore, our findings unveiled that poor/undifferentiated tumor histology, pathological T2 or higher category and pathological N1 category were significantly associated with improved survival when treated with AC while simultaneously observing improved survival across all age categories.

CONCLUSION

These results provide additional evidence supporting the survival benefits of AC and offer guidance for personalized therapy in patients with resected GBA.

Outcomes of liver resection in hepatitis C virus-related intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary liver malignancy. Its incidence and mortality rates have been increasing in recent years. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a risk factor for development of cirrhosis and cholangiocarcinoma. Currently, surgical resection remains the only curative treatment option for cholangiocarcinoma. We aim to study the impact of HCV infection on outcomes of liver resection (LR) in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

AIM

To study the outcomes of curative resection of ICC in patients with HCV (i.e., HCV+) compared to patients without HCV (i.e., HCV-).

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies to assess the outcomes of LR in ICC in HCV+ patients compared to HCV- patients in tertiary care hospitals. PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library and Scopus were systematically searched from inception till August 2023. Included studies were RCTs and non-RCTs on patients ≥ 18 years old with a diagnosis of ICC who underwent LR, and compared outcomes between patients with HCV+ vs HCV-. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival. Secondary outcomes include perioperative mortality, operation duration, blood loss, intrahepatic and extrahepatic recurrence.

RESULTS

Seven articles, published between 2004 and 2021, fulfilled the selection criteria. All of the studies were retrospective studies. Age, incidence of male patients, albumin, bilirubin, platelets, tumor size, incidence of multiple tumors, vascular invasion, bile duct invasion, lymph node metastases, and stage 4 disease were comparable between HCV+ and HCV- group. Alanine transaminase [MD 22.20, 95%confidence interval (CI): 13.75, 30.65, P < 0.00001] and aspartate transaminase levels (MD 27.27, 95%CI: 20.20, 34.34, P < 0.00001) were significantly higher in HCV+ group compared to HCV- group. Incidence of cirrhosis was significantly higher in HCV+ group [odds ratio (OR) 5.78, 95%CI: 1.38, 24.14, P = 0.02] compared to HCV- group. Incidence of poorly differentiated disease was significantly higher in HCV+ group (OR 2.55, 95%CI: 1.34, 4.82, P = 0.004) compared to HCV- group. Incidence of simultaneous hepatocellular carcinoma lesions was significantly higher in HCV+ group (OR 8.31, 95%CI: 2.36, 29.26, P = 0.001) compared to HCV- group. OS was significantly worse in the HCV+ group (hazard ratio 2.05, 95%CI: 1.46, 2.88, P < 0.0001) compared to HCV- group.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrated significantly worse OS in HCV+ patients with ICC who underwent curative resection compared to HCV- patients.

The Relevance of Radial Margin Status in Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma: A State-of-the-Art Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Prognosis of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) is poor, and curative-intent resection is the most effective treatment associated with long-term survival. Surgery is technically demanding since it involves a major hepatectomy with en bloc resection of the caudate lobe and extrahepatic bile duct. Furthermore, to achieve negative margins, it may be necessary to perform concomitant vascular resection or pancreatoduodenectomy. Despite this aggressive approach, recurrence is often observed, considering 5-year recurrence-free survival below 15% and 5-year overall survival that barely exceeds 40%.

SUMMARY

The literature reports that survival rates are better in patients with negative margins, and surprisingly, R0 resections range between 19% and 95%. This variability is probably due to different surgical strategies and the pathologist's expertise with specimens. In fact, a proper pathological examination of residual disease should take into consideration both the ductal and the radial margin (RM) status. Currently, detailed pathological reports are lacking, and there is a likelihood of misinterpreting residual disease status due to the missing of RM description and the utilization of various definitions for surgical margins.

KEY MESSAGES

The aim of PHCC surgery is to achieve negative margins including RM. More clarity in reporting on RM is needed to define true radical resection and consistent design of oncological studies for adjuvant treatments.

Advances in research and application of photodynamic therapy in cholangiocarcinoma (Review)

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a disease characterized by insidious clinical manifestations and challenging to diagnose. Patients are usually diagnosed at an advanced stage and miss the opportunity for radical surgery. Therefore, effective palliative therapy is the main treatment approach for unresectable CCA. Current common palliative treatments include biliary drainage, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. However, these treatments only offer limited improvement in quality of life and survival. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a novel local treatment method that is considered a safe tumor ablation method for numerous cancers. It has shown good efficacy in various studies of CCA and is expected to become an important treatment for CCA. In the present study, the mechanisms of PDT in the treatment of CCA were systematically explored and the progress in the research of photosensitizers was discussed. The current study focused on the various PDT protocols and their therapeutic effects in CCA, with the objective of providing a new horizon for future research and clinical applications of PDT in the treatment of CCA.

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Evolving strategies in management and treatment

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is the second most frequent primary liver cancer after hepatocellular carcinoma. According to International Classification of Diseases-11 (ICD-11), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is identified by a specific diagnostic code, different with respect to perihilar-CCA or distal-CCA. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma originates from intrahepatic small or large bile ducts including the second-order bile ducts and has a silent presentation that combined with the highly aggressive nature and refractoriness to chemotherapy contributes to the alarming increasing incidence and mortality. Indeed, at the moment of the diagnosis, less than 40% of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma are suitable of curative surgical therapy, that is so far the only effective treatment. The main goals of clinicians and researchers are to make an early diagnosis, and to carry out molecular characterization to provide the patient with personalized treatment. Unfortunately, these goals are not easily achievable because of the heterogeneity of this tumor from anatomical, molecular, biological, and clinical perspectives. However, recent progress has been made in molecular characterization, surgical treatment, and management of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and, this article deals with these advances.