1
|
Papadakos SP, Chatzikalil E, Arvanitakis K, Vakadaris G, Stergiou IE, Koutsompina ML, Argyrou A, Lekakis V, Konstantinidis I, Germanidis G, Theocharis S. Understanding the Role of Connexins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Molecular and Prognostic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1533. [PMID: 38672615 PMCID: PMC11048329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Connexins, a family of tetraspan membrane proteins forming intercellular channels localized in gap junctions, play a pivotal role at the different stages of tumor progression presenting both pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Considering the potential role of connexins as tumor suppressors through multiple channel-independent mechanisms, their loss of expression may be associated with tumorigenic activity, while it is hypothesized that connexins favor the clonal expansion of tumor cells and promote cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, affecting metastasis and chemoresistance in some cases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by unfavorable prognosis and limited responsiveness to current therapeutic strategies, has been linked to gap junction proteins as tumorigenic factors with prognostic value. Notably, several members of connexins have emerged as promising markers for assessing the progression and aggressiveness of HCC, as well as the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of hepatocellular tumor cells. Our review sheds light on the multifaceted role of connexins in HCC pathogenesis, offering valuable insights on recent advances in determining their prognostic and therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Elena Chatzikalil
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Vakadaris
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Maria-Loukia Koutsompina
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (I.E.S.); (M.-L.K.)
| | - Alexandra Argyrou
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Academic Department of Gastroenterology, Laikon General Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (V.L.)
| | | | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.V.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit, Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.P.P.); (E.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Min JH, Lee MW, Rhim H, Han S, Song KD, Kang TW, Jeong WK, Cha DI, Kim JM, Choi GS, Kim K. LI-RADS category is associated with treatment outcomes of small single HCC: surgical resection vs. radiofrequency ablation. Eur Radiol 2024; 34:525-537. [PMID: 37526668 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-09998-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) category is associated with the treatment outcomes of small single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after surgical resection (SR) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). METHODS This retrospective study included 357 patients who underwent SR (n = 209) or RFA (n = 148) for a single HCC of ≤ 3 cm between 2014 and 2016. LI-RADS categories were assigned. Overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and local tumor progression (LTP) rates after treatment were compared according to the LI-RADS category (LR-4/5 vs. LR-M) before and after propensity score matching (PSM). Prognostic factors for treatment outcomes were assessed. RESULTS In total, 357 patients (mean age, 59 years; men, 272) with 357 HCCs (294 LR-4/5 and 63 LR-M) were included. After PSM (n = 78 in each treatment group), there were 10 and 11 LR-M HCCs in the SR and RFA group, respectively. There were no significant differences in OS or RFS. However, SR provided a lower 5-year LTP rate than RFA (1.4% vs. 14.9%, p = 0.001). SR provided a lower 5-year LTP rate than RFA for LR-M HCCs (0% vs. 34.4%, p = 0.062) and LR-4/5 HCCs (1.5% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.008). The LI-RADS category was the sole risk factor associated with poor OS (hazard ratio [HR] 3.79, p = 0.004), RFS (HR 2.12; p = 0.001), and LTP (HR 2.89; p = 0.032). CONCLUSION LI-RADS classification is associated with the treatment outcome of HCC, supporting favorable outcomes of SR over RFA for LTP, especially for HCCs categorized as LR-M. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System category has a potential prognostic role, supporting favorable outcomes of surgical resection over radiofrequency ablation for local tumor progression, especially for hepatocellular carcinoma categorized as LR-M. KEY POINTS • SR provided a lower 5-year LTP rate than RFA for HCCs categorized as LR-M (0% vs. 34.4%, p = 0.062) and HCCs categorized as LR-4/5 (1.5% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.008). • There is a steeply increased risk of LTP within 1 year after RFA for LR-M HCCs, compared to SR. • The LI-RADS category was the sole risk factor associated with poor OS (HR 3.79, p = 0.004), RFS (HR 2.12; p = 0.001), and LTP (HR 2.89; p = 0.032) in patients with HCC of ≤ 3 cm treated with SR or RFA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hye Min
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Woo Lee
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunchul Rhim
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungchul Han
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Doo Song
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Wook Kang
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Kyoung Jeong
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Ik Cha
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-Ro Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Man Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu Seong Choi
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyunga Kim
- Biomedical Statistics Center, Research Institute for Future Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Naganuma H, Ishida H. Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Non-Fibrotic Liver: A Narrative Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3426. [PMID: 37998562 PMCID: PMC10670297 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13223426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a non-fibrotic liver (F0) is considered to be rare, and there is a marked paucity of studies in the literature on this HCC type. A review of the literature shows some important clinical and tumor characteristics: (a) it occurs mainly in young female and elder male patients; (b) clinically, under normal hepatic function, alpha-fetoprotein level is often normal, and there are no risk factors; (c) associated with metabolic disease; (d) macroscopically, single large lesions are noted; and (e) microscopically, the lesions are well-differentiated and encapsulated. Radiological imaging results are straightforward, showing arterial hyperenhancement and later wash-out. The combined use of B-mode and contrast-enhanced (CE) ultrasound (US) is the most reliable and cost-effective diagnostic method. Few peri-and post-operative complications are noted and 5-year survival is not inferior to patients with HCC on fibrosis liver despite the lesion's large size. Most clinicians believe that HCC is unlikely to occur if patients have no symptoms and normal hepatic function. Although detailed clinical data are very limited, we expect that this review will help to improve the clinical management of HCC in non-fibrotic livers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Naganuma
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yokote Municipal Hospital, Negishi-cho 5-31, Yokote City 013-8602, Japan
| | - Hideaki Ishida
- Department of Gastroenterology, Akita Red Cross Hospital, Kamikitate Saruta aza Naeshirosawa 222-1, Akita City 010-1495, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chu HH, Gwon DI, Kim GH, Kim JH, Ko GY, Shin JH, Ko HK, Yoon HK. Balloon-occluded transarterial chemoembolization versus conventional transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment of single hepatocellular carcinoma: a propensity score matching analysis. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:2655-2664. [PMID: 36472699 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-09284-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the safety and efficacy of balloon-occluded transarterial chemoembolization (B-TACE) and conventional TACE (C-TACE) in treating single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS This single-center retrospective study included 523 patients who underwent C-TACE and 44 who underwent B-TACE as first-line treatment for single HCCs between November 2017 and December 2019. After propensity score matching (PSM), initial tumor response rates, local tumor progression (LTP), and major complication rates were evaluated in the 32 pairs of PSM matched population. RESULTS In the 32 pairs of PSM cohort, B-TACE showed distinct superiority over C-TACE in treating single HCCs, with significantly higher initial complete response (CR) rates (93.8% vs. 62.5%, p = 0.005). During a median follow-up of 37 months (range, 12.7-46.5 months), 13 patients (40.6%) who underwent B-TACE and 16 (50%) who underwent C-TACE showed LTP of treated lesions. Size-based sub-group analysis showed that the median times to LTP in patients with medium- to large-sized tumors (> 3 cm) were significantly longer in the B-TACE (27 months; 95% confidence interval [CI], 19.7-34.3 months) than in the C-TACE (13 months; 95% CI, 3.9-22.1 months) group (p = 0.019). The major complication rate was similar between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS B-TACE had a higher initial CR rate than C-TACE in treating single HCCs. Moreover, size-based subgroup analysis showed that time to LTP was significantly longer in patients with medium- to large-sized HCCs (> 3 cm) who underwent B-TACE rather than C-TACE. KEY POINTS • B-TACE was superior to C-TACE in treating single HCC, with a significantly higher initial complete response rate after one session of treatment. • In size-based subgroup analysis, time to LTP was significantly longer in patients with medium- to large-sized HCCs (>3 cm) who underwent B-TACE rather than C-TACE. • B-TACE should be considered an alternative treatment option for medium- to large-sized single HCCs (>3 cm) in patients with a nonresectable condition and those who prefer nonsurgical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Ho Chu
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Dong Il Gwon
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea. .,Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88 Olympic-ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| | - Gun Ha Kim
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Jin Hyoung Kim
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Gi-Young Ko
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Shin
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Heung-Kyu Ko
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ki Yoon
- Department of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wei H, Yang T, Chen J, Duan T, Jiang H, Song B. Prognostic implications of CT/MRI LI-RADS in hepatocellular carcinoma: State of the art and future directions. Liver Int 2022; 42:2131-2144. [PMID: 35808845 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most lethal malignancy with an increasing incidence worldwide. Management of HCC has followed several clinical staging systems that rely on tumour morphologic characteristics and clinical variables. However, these algorithms are unlikely to profile the full landscape of tumour aggressiveness and allow accurate prognosis stratification. Noninvasive imaging biomarkers on computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exhibit a promising prospect to refine the prognostication of HCC. The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardizing the terminology, techniques, interpretation, reporting and data collection of liver imaging. At present, it has been widely accepted as an effective diagnostic system for HCC in at-risk patients. Emerging data have provided new insights into the potential of CT/MRI LI-RADS in HCC prognostication, which may help refine the prognostic paradigm of HCC that promises to direct individualized management and improve patient outcomes. Therefore, this review aims to summarize several prognostic imaging features at CT/MRI for patients with HCC; the available evidence regarding the use of LI-RDAS for evaluation of tumour biology and clinical outcomes, pitfalls of current literature, and future directions for LI-RADS in the management of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wei
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Yang
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Duan
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hanyu Jiang
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Song
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Radiology, Sanya People's Hospital, Sanya, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bárcena-Varela M. Revealing anti-PD-1 resistance mechanisms in HCC: A path towards novel combination immunotherapies. J Hepatol 2022; 77:9-11. [PMID: 35513202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Bárcena-Varela
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; The Precision Immunology Institute Department, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang H, Guo D, Liu H, He X, Qiao X, Liu X, Liu Y, Zhou J, Zhou Z, Liu X, Fang Z. MRI-Based Radiomics Models to Discriminate Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Hepatocellular Carcinoma in LR-M According to LI-RADS Version 2018. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12051043. [PMID: 35626199 PMCID: PMC9139717 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from other primary liver malignancies in the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) M (LR-M) tumours noninvasively is critical for patient treatment options, but visual evaluation based on medical images is a very challenging task. This study aimed to evaluate whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) models based on radiomics features could further improve the ability to classify LR-M tumour subtypes. A total of 102 liver tumours were defined as LR-M by two radiologists based on LI-RADS and were confirmed to be HCC (n = 31) and non-HCC (n = 71) by surgery. A radiomics signature was constructed based on reproducible features using the max-relevance and min-redundancy (mRMR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression algorithms with tenfold cross-validation. Logistic regression modelling was applied to establish different models based on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), arterial phase (AP), portal vein phase (PVP), and combined models. These models were verified independently in the validation cohort. The area under the curve (AUC) of the models based on T2WI, AP, PVP, T2WI + AP, T2WI + PVP, AP + PVP, and T2WI + AP + PVP were 0.768, 0.838, 0.778, 0.880, 0.818, 0.832, and 0.884, respectively. The combined model based on T2WI + AP + PVP showed the best performance in the training cohort and validation cohort. The discrimination efficiency of each radiomics model was significantly better than that of junior radiologists’ visual assessment (p < 0.05; Delong). Therefore, the MRI-based radiomics models had a good ability to discriminate between HCC and non-HCC in LR-M tumours, providing more options to improve the accuracy of LI-RADS classification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haiping Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Dajing Guo
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Huan Liu
- GE Healthcare, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Xiaojing He
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Xiaofeng Qiao
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Xinjie Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Zhiming Zhou
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Xi Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
| | - Zheng Fang
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400010, China; (H.Z.); (D.G.); (X.H.); (X.Q.); (X.L.); (Y.L.); (J.Z.); (Z.Z.); (X.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-23-63693238
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Centonze L, De Carlis R, Vella I, Carbonaro L, Incarbone N, Palmieri L, Sgrazzutti C, Ficarelli A, Valsecchi MG, Dello Iacono U, Lauterio A, Bernasconi D, Vanzulli A, De Carlis L. From LI-RADS Classification to HCC Pathology: A Retrospective Single-Institution Analysis of Clinico-Pathological Features Affecting Oncological Outcomes after Curative Surgery. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:160. [PMID: 35054327 PMCID: PMC8775107 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12010160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The latest Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) classification by the American College of Radiology has been recently endorsed in the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) guidelines for Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) management. Although the LI-RADS protocol has been developed as a diagnostic algorithm, there is some evidence concerning a possible correlation between different LI-RADS classes and specific pathological features of HCC. We aimed to investigate such radiological/pathological correlation and the possible prognostic implication of LI-RADS on a retrospective cohort of HCC patients undergoing surgical resection. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of the pathological characteristics of resected HCC, exploring their distribution among different LI-RADS classes and analyzing the risk factors for recurrence-free, overall and cancer-specific survival Results: LI-RADS-5 (LR-5) nodules showed a higher prevalence of microvascular invasion (MVI), satellitosis and capsule infiltration, as well as higher median values of alpha-fetoprotein (αFP) compared to LI-RADS-3/4 (LR-3/4) nodules. MVI, αFP, satellitosis and margin-positive (R1) resection resulted as independent risk factors for recurrence-free survival, while LI-RADS class did not exert any significant impact. Focusing on overall survival, we identified patient age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS), Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, αFP, MVI, satellitosis and R1 resection as independent risk factors for survival, without any impact of LI-RADS classification. Last, MELD score, log10αFP, satellitosis and R1 resection resulted as independent risk factors for cancer-specific survival, while LI-RADS class did not exert any significant impact. Conclusions: Our results suggest an association of LR-5 class with unfavorable pathological characteristics of resected HCC; tumor histology and underlying patient characteristics such as age, ECOG-PS and liver disease severity exert a significant impact on postoperative oncological outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Centonze
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Riccardo De Carlis
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Ivan Vella
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Luca Carbonaro
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (C.S.); (U.D.I.); (A.V.)
| | - Niccolò Incarbone
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Livia Palmieri
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Cristiano Sgrazzutti
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (C.S.); (U.D.I.); (A.V.)
| | - Alberto Ficarelli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Maria Grazia Valsecchi
- Bicocca Bioinformatics Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre—B4, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy; (M.G.V.); (D.B.)
| | - Umberto Dello Iacono
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (C.S.); (U.D.I.); (A.V.)
| | - Andrea Lauterio
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
| | - Davide Bernasconi
- Bicocca Bioinformatics Biostatistics and Bioimaging Centre—B4, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy; (M.G.V.); (D.B.)
| | - Angelo Vanzulli
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (L.C.); (C.S.); (U.D.I.); (A.V.)
| | - Luciano De Carlis
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca’ Granda Hospital, 20161 Milan, Italy; (R.D.C.); (I.V.); (N.I.); (L.P.); (A.F.); (A.L.); (L.D.C.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Radiomics Models for Predicting Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Radiomics Quality Score Assessment. Cancers (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225864
expr 925508420 + 988274397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Preoperative prediction of microvascular invasion (MVI) is of importance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient treatment management. Plenty of radiomics models for MVI prediction have been proposed. This study aimed to elucidate the role of radiomics models in the prediction of MVI and to evaluate their methodological quality. The methodological quality was assessed by the Radiomics Quality Score (RQS), and the risk of bias was evaluated by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2). Twenty-two studies using CT, MRI, or PET/CT for MVI prediction were included. All were retrospective studies, and only two had an external validation cohort. The AUC values of the prediction models ranged from 0.69 to 0.94 in the test cohort. Substantial methodological heterogeneity existed, and the methodological quality was low, with an average RQS score of 10 (28% of the total). Most studies demonstrated a low or unclear risk of bias in the domains of QUADAS-2. In conclusion, a radiomics model could be an accurate and effective tool for MVI prediction in HCC patients, although the methodological quality has so far been insufficient. Future prospective studies with an external validation cohort in accordance with a standardized radiomics workflow are expected to supply a reliable model that translates into clinical utilization.
Collapse
|
10
|
Wang Q, Li C, Zhang J, Hu X, Fan Y, Ma K, Sparrelid E, Brismar TB. Radiomics Models for Predicting Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Radiomics Quality Score Assessment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225864. [PMID: 34831018 PMCID: PMC8616379 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Microvascular invasion (MVI) is regarded as a sign of early metastasis in liver cancer and can be only diagnosed by a histopathology exam in the resected specimen. Preoperative prediction of MVI status may exert an effect on patient treatment management, for instance, to expand the resection margin. Radiomics can identify delicate imaging features from routinely used radiological images that are invisible to the naked eye and has been increasingly adopted to predict MVI. We reviewed the available radiomics models to evaluate their role in the prediction of MVI. The discriminative capacity of the models ranged from 0.69 to 0.94. Even though the studies were preliminary and the methodologic quality was suboptimal, radiomics models hold promise for the accurate and non-invasive prediction of MVI. In accordance with a standardized radiomics workflow, future prospective studies with external validation are expected to provide a reliable and robust prediction tool for clinical implementation. Abstract Preoperative prediction of microvascular invasion (MVI) is of importance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patient treatment management. Plenty of radiomics models for MVI prediction have been proposed. This study aimed to elucidate the role of radiomics models in the prediction of MVI and to evaluate their methodological quality. The methodological quality was assessed by the Radiomics Quality Score (RQS), and the risk of bias was evaluated by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2). Twenty-two studies using CT, MRI, or PET/CT for MVI prediction were included. All were retrospective studies, and only two had an external validation cohort. The AUC values of the prediction models ranged from 0.69 to 0.94 in the test cohort. Substantial methodological heterogeneity existed, and the methodological quality was low, with an average RQS score of 10 (28% of the total). Most studies demonstrated a low or unclear risk of bias in the domains of QUADAS-2. In conclusion, a radiomics model could be an accurate and effective tool for MVI prediction in HCC patients, although the methodological quality has so far been insufficient. Future prospective studies with an external validation cohort in accordance with a standardized radiomics workflow are expected to supply a reliable model that translates into clinical utilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Division of Radiology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-72-876-8983
| | - Changfeng Li
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China; (C.L.); (K.M.)
| | - Jiaxing Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital, Guiyang 550002, China;
| | - Xiaojun Hu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510999, China;
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China;
| | - Yingfang Fan
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China;
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510280, China
| | - Kuansheng Ma
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing 400038, China; (C.L.); (K.M.)
| | - Ernesto Sparrelid
- Division of Surgery, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Torkel B. Brismar
- Division of Medical Imaging and Technology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden;
- Division of Radiology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, 14186 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Per-Feature Accuracy of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System Locoregional Treatment Response Algorithm: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174432. [PMID: 34503241 PMCID: PMC8430492 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to investigate the accuracy of each imaging feature of LI-RADS treatment response (LR-TR) viable category for diagnosing tumor viability of locoregional therapy (LRT)-treated HCC. Studies evaluating the per feature accuracy of the LR-TR viable category on dynamic contrast-enhanced CT or MRI were identified in databases. A bivariate random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of LR-TR viable features. Ten studies assessing the accuracies of LR-TR viable features (1153 treated observations in 971 patients) were included. The pooled sensitivities and specificities for diagnosing viable HCC were 81% (95% confidence interval [CI], 63-92%) and 95% (95% CI, 88-98%) for nodular, mass-like, or irregular thick tissue (NMLIT) with arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE), 55% (95% CI, 34-75%) and 96% (95% CI, 94-98%) for NMLIT with washout appearance, and 21% (95% CI, 6-53%) and 98% (95% CI, 92-100%) for NMLIT with enhancement similar to pretreatment, respectively. Of these features, APHE showed the highest pooled DOR (81 [95% CI, 25-261]), followed by washout appearance (32 [95% CI, 13-82]) and enhancement similar to pretreatment (14 [95% CI, 5-39]). In conclusion, APHE provided the highest sensitivity and DOR for diagnosing viable HCC following LRT, while enhancement similar to pretreatment showed suboptimal performance.
Collapse
|
12
|
Risk Score Model for Microvascular Invasion in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of Tumor Burden and Alpha-Fetoprotein. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174403. [PMID: 34503212 PMCID: PMC8430980 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Microvascular invasion (MVI) is the most consistently reported risk factor for recurrence after curative treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the preoperative prediction of MVI is still challenging. We retrospectively collected 1153 patients who underwent liver resection for HCC, and our multivariate analysis revealed preoperative total tumor volume (TTV) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) to be independent risk factors for MVI. We used both factors to build a risk score model that is easy to calculate and objective, with minimal user bias. The preoperative prediction of MVI can guide the treatment plan of HCC, including surgical planning, criteria for transplantation, and adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy. Our risk score model is easily and widely applicable with moderate performance, which optimizes clinical practice and helps study design in the future. Abstract Microvascular invasion (MVI) is a significant risk factor for the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma, but it is a histological feature that needs to be confirmed after hepatectomy or liver transplantation. The preoperative prediction of MVI can optimize the treatment plan of HCC, but an easy and widely applicable model is still lacking. The aim of our study was to predict the risk of MVI using objective preoperative factors. We retrospectively collected 1153 patients who underwent liver resection for HCC, and MVI was found to be associated with significantly poor disease-free survival. The patients were randomly split in a 3:1 ratio into training (n = 864) and validation (n = 289) datasets. The multivariate analysis of the training dataset found preoperative total tumor volume (TTV) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) to be independent risk factors for MVI. We built a risk score model with cutoff points of TTV at 30, 60, and 300 cm3 and AFP at 160 and 2000 ng/mL, and the model stratified the risk of MVI into low risk (14.1%), intermediate risk (36.4%), and high risk (60.5%). The validation of the risk score model with the validation dataset showed moderate performance (the concordance statistic: 0.731). The model comprised simple and objective preoperative factors with good applicability, which can help to guide treatment plans for HCC and future study design.
Collapse
|
13
|
Centonze L, Di Sandro S, Lauterio A, De Carlis R, Sgrazzutti C, Ciulli C, Vella I, Vicentin I, Incarbone N, Bagnardi V, Vanzulli A, De Carlis L. A retrospective single-centre analysis of the oncological impact of LI-RADS classification applied to Metroticket 2.0 calculator in liver transplantation: every nodule matters. Transpl Int 2021; 34:1712-1721. [PMID: 34448275 DOI: 10.1111/tri.13983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although the diagnostic value of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) protocol is well recognized in clinical practice, its role in liver transplant (LT) setting is under-explored. We sought to evaluate the oncological impact of LI-RADS classification applied to Metroticket 2.0 calculator in a single-centre retrospective cohort of transplanted hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, exploring which LI-RADS subclasses need to be considered in order to grant the best Metroticket 2.0 performance. The most recent pre-LT imaging of 245 patients undergoing LT for HCC between 2005 and 2015 was retrospectively and blindly reviewed, classifying all nodules according to LI-RADS protocol. Metroticket 2.0 accuracy was subsequently tested incorporating all vital nodules identified during multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings attended before LI-RADS reclassification of the latest pre-LT imaging, LR-5 and LR-treatment-viable (LR-TR-V), LR-4/5 and LR-TR-V, and LR-3/4/5 and LR-TR-V nodules respectively. Considering their extremely low probability for harbouring HCC, LR-1 and LR-2 nodules were not considered in this analysis. Incorporation of all HCCs identified during MDT meetings attended before LI-RADS reclassification of the latest pre-LT imaging resulted in a Metroticket 2.0 c-index of 0.72, [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64-0.80]. Metroticket 2.0 c-index dropped to 0.60 [95% CI: 0.48-0.72] when LI-RADS-5 and LI-RADS-TR-V (P = 0.0089) or LI-RADS-5, LI-RADS-4 and LI-RADS-TR-V (P = 0.0068) nodules were entered in the calculator. Conversely, addition of LI-RADS-3 HCCs raised the Metroticket 2.0 c-index to 0.65 [95% CI: 0.54-0.86], resulting in a not statistically significant diversion from the original performance (0.72 vs. 0.65; P = 0.08). Exclusion of LR-3 and LR-4 nodules from Metroticket 2.0 calculator resulted in a significant drop in its accuracy. Every nodule with an intermediate-to-high probability of harbouring HCC according to LI-RADS protocol seems to contribute to tumour burden and should be entered in the Metroticket 2.0 calculator in order to grant appropriate performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Centonze
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Sandro
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Lauterio
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo De Carlis
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Ciulli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Ivan Vella
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vicentin
- Advanced Technologies Department, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Niccolò Incarbone
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bagnardi
- Department of Statistics and Quantitative Methods, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Angelo Vanzulli
- Advanced Technologies Department, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luciano De Carlis
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, Niguarda Ca' Granda Hospital, Milan, Italy.,School of Medicine, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ridouani F, Ghosn M, Cornelis F, Petre EN, Hsu M, Moskowitz CS, Kingham PT, Solomon SB, Srimathveeravalli G. Ablation Zone Involution of Liver Tumors Is Faster in Patients Treated with Irreversible Electroporation Than Microwave Ablation. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:877. [PMID: 34577800 PMCID: PMC8467214 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: To compare ablation zone involution following microwave ablation (MWA) or irreversible electroporation (IRE) of liver tumors. Materials and Methods: MWA or IRE performed for colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) during January 2011 to December 2015 were analyzed. Patients with a tumoral response on 1-year follow-up computed tomography (CT) were included. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate the differences between the two modalities on ablation zone involution observed on CT at 6 (M6) and 12 months (M12), and on laboratory values (total bilirubin, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, and platelets count). The likelihood ratio test was used to assess whether the association between ablation modalities and these outcomes differed over time. Results: Seventeen (17/44, 39%) women and 27 (27/44, 61%) men were included, with 25 HCC (25/44, 57%) and 19 CRLM (19/44, 43%) patients. IRE was used in 9 (9/19, 47%) CRLM and 5 (5/25, 20%) HCC patients, respectively. All other patients had MWA. Ablation zone size and involution between IRE and MWA differed significantly over time (interaction p < 0.01), with a mean of 241.04 vs. 771.08 mm2 (ratio 0.313; 95% CI, 0.165-0.592; p < 0.01) at M6 and 60.47 vs. 589.43 mm2 (ratio 0.103; 95% CI, 0.029-0.365; p < 0.01) at M12. Changes in liver enzymes did not differ significantly between IRE and MWA at both timepoints. Conclusions: Liver tumors treated with IRE underwent faster involution when compared to tumors treated with MWA, but liver enzymes levels were comparable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fourat Ridouani
- Interventional Radiology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (F.R.); (M.G.); (E.N.P.); (S.B.S.)
| | - Mario Ghosn
- Interventional Radiology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (F.R.); (M.G.); (E.N.P.); (S.B.S.)
| | - Francois Cornelis
- Department of Interventional Radiology and Oncology, Tenon Hospital, Sorbonne University, 4 Rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France;
| | - Elena N Petre
- Interventional Radiology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (F.R.); (M.G.); (E.N.P.); (S.B.S.)
| | - Meier Hsu
- Biostatistics Service, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.H.); (C.S.M.)
| | - Chaya S Moskowitz
- Biostatistics Service, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (M.H.); (C.S.M.)
| | - Peter T Kingham
- HepatoPancreatoBiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Stephen B Solomon
- Interventional Radiology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; (F.R.); (M.G.); (E.N.P.); (S.B.S.)
| | - Govindarajan Srimathveeravalli
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01002, USA
- Institute for Applied Life Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01002, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chemoembolization for Single Large Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Preserved Liver Function: Analysis of Factors Predicting Clinical Outcomes in a 302 Patient Cohort. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11080840. [PMID: 34440584 PMCID: PMC8400325 DOI: 10.3390/life11080840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to define the role of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with a single large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and define the patient groups benefiting from TACE. Treatment-naïve patients with preserved liver function who received TACE as the first-line treatment for single large (>5 cm) HCC without macrovascular invasion and extrahepatic metastasis between 2007 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Overall survival, progression-free survival, radiologic tumor response, complications, and predictors of survival were analyzed using multivariate analysis, and then a pretreatment risk-prediction model was created using the four predictive factors of tumor size, tumor type, ALBI grade, and ECOG performance status. Patients with scores of 0 (n = 54), 1-2 (n = 170), and 3-6 (n = 78) according to the model were classified as low-, intermediate-, and high-risk, respectively. The corresponding median OS values were 141, 55, and 28 months, respectively. The percentage of major complications increased as tumor size increased (4-21%). Asymptomatic, nodular HCC patients with a tumor size of 5-7 cm and ALBI grade 1 benefited the most from TACE. By contrast, the value of TACE in the treatment of single huge HCC (>10 cm) with high complication rates remains unclear.
Collapse
|
16
|
Esagian SM, Kakos CD, Giorgakis E, Burdine L, Barreto JC, Mavros MN. Adjuvant Transarterial Chemoembolization Following Curative-Intent Hepatectomy Versus Hepatectomy Alone for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2984. [PMID: 34203692 PMCID: PMC8232114 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of adjuvant transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) undergoing hepatectomy is currently unclear. We performed a systematic review of the literature using the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Random-effects meta-analysis was carried out to compare the overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of patients with resectable HCC undergoing hepatectomy followed by adjuvant TACE vs. hepatectomy alone in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Meta-regression analyses were performed to explore the effect of hepatitis B viral status, microvascular invasion, type of resection (anatomic vs. parenchymal-sparing), and tumor size on the outcomes. Ten eligible RCTs, reporting on 1216 patients in total, were identified. The combination of hepatectomy and adjuvant TACE was associated with superior OS (hazard ratio (HR): 0.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.52 to 0.85; p < 0.001) and RFS (HR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.88; p < 0.001) compared to hepatectomy alone. There were significant concerns regarding the risk of bias in most of the included studies. Overall, adjuvant TACE may be associated with an oncologic benefit in select HCC patients. However, the applicability of these findings may be limited to Eastern Asian populations, due to the geographically restricted sample. High-quality multinational RCTs, as well as predictive tools to optimize patient selection, are necessary before adjuvant TACE can be routinely implemented into standard practice. PROSPERO Registration ID: CRD42021245758.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stepan M. Esagian
- Oncology Working Group, Society of Junior Doctors, 15123 Athens, Greece;
| | - Christos D. Kakos
- Surgery Working Group, Society of Junior Doctors, 15123 Athens, Greece;
| | - Emmanouil Giorgakis
- Department of Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (E.G.); (L.B.); (J.C.B.)
| | - Lyle Burdine
- Department of Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (E.G.); (L.B.); (J.C.B.)
| | - J. Camilo Barreto
- Department of Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (E.G.); (L.B.); (J.C.B.)
| | - Michail N. Mavros
- Surgery Working Group, Society of Junior Doctors, 15123 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Surgery, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA; (E.G.); (L.B.); (J.C.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tumor-Associated Neutrophils in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Pathogenesis, Prognosis, and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122899. [PMID: 34200529 PMCID: PMC8228651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma represents the most prevalent primary liver cancer worldwide, and it is either caused by intrinsic genetic mutations or by a multitude of extrinsic risk factors. Even though the interplay between chronic inflammatory changes and hepatocarcinogenesis has been at the forefront of clinical investigation for the past few decades, the role of tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) in HCC development still remains ambiguous. On the one hand, N1 TANs exhibit an anti-tumorigenic activity, mediated by direct or indirect tumor cell lysis, whereas on the other hand, N2 TANs have been correlated with increased HCC growth, invasiveness, and metastasis. The association of an elevated Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) with poor prognosis in patients with HCC, has been recently brought into spotlight, consolidating its widespread use as a reliable biomarker. Due to the decisive involvement of TANs in HCC pathogenesis and development, the utilization of various neutrophil-centered anticancer treatment modalities has been under clinical experimentation, selectively targeting and modulating the processes of neutrophil recruitment, activation, and migration. This review summarizes current evidence on the role of TANs in HCC pathogenesis and progression, as well as in their potential involvement in tumor therapy, shedding light on emerging anticancer treatment methods targeting neutrophils.
Collapse
|
18
|
Preel A, Hermida M, Allimant C, Assenat E, Guillot C, Gozzo C, Aho-Glele S, Pageaux GP, Cassinotto C, Guiu B. Uni-, Bi- or Trifocal Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Western Patients: Recurrence and Survival after Percutaneous Thermal Ablation. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2700. [PMID: 34070800 PMCID: PMC8197823 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Multifocality is usually reported as a pejorative factor after percutaneous thermal ablation (PTA) of HCC but little is known in Western series. Recurrence and survival were extracted from a prospective database of all patients who underwent PTA for ≤3 cm HCC. From January 2015 to April 2020, we analyzed 281 patients with unifocal (n = 216), bifocal (n = 46) and trifocal (n = 16) HCC. PTA of bi- and trifocal HCC resulted in a high risk of very early (<6 months) distant recurrence (38.8% and 50%, respectively). Median RFS was 23.3 months (95% CI:18.6-30.4), 7.7 months (95% CI:5.1-11.43, p = 0.002) and 5.2 months (95% CI:3-12.3, p = 0.015), respectively, for uni-, bi- and trifocal HCC groups. In a multivariate analysis, both bifocal (HR = 2.46, p < 0.001) and trifocal (HR = 2.70, p = 0.021) vs. unifocal HCC independently predicted shorter RFS. Median OS in trifocal HCC group was 30.3 months (95 CI:19.3-not reached). Trifocal vs. unifocal HCC independently predicted shorter OS (HR = 3.30, p = 0.008), whereas bifocal vs. unifocal HCC did not (p = 0.27). Naïve patient (HR = 0.42, p = 0.007), AFP > 100 ng/mL (HR = 3.03, p = 0.008), MELD > 9 (HR = 2.84, p = 0.001) and steatotic HCC (HR = 0.12, p = 0.038) were also independent predictors of OS. In conclusion, multifocal HCCs in a Western population have a dramatically increased risk of distant recurrence. OS after PTA of trifocal HCC is significantly below what was expected after a curative treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ancelin Preel
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Margaux Hermida
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Carole Allimant
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Eric Assenat
- Department of Oncology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34295 Montpellier, France;
| | - Chloé Guillot
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Cecilia Gozzo
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Serge Aho-Glele
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France;
| | | | - Christophe Cassinotto
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| | - Boris Guiu
- Department of Radiology, St-Eloi University Hospital, 34980 Montpellier, France; (A.P.); (M.H.); (C.A.); (C.G.); (C.G.); (C.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Barcena-Varela M, Lujambio A. The Endless Sources of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Heterogeneity. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13112621. [PMID: 34073538 PMCID: PMC8198457 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tumor heterogeneity in liver cancer is a major contributor to the high lethality rate found in patients suffering from this disease. The therapeutic outcomes are drastically affected by this heterogeneity, which complicates patient stratification and response prediction. Better understanding of all the factors that can contribute to this heterogeneity will be critical to improve our understanding of liver cancer, in order to optimize the outcome of patients. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a global health problem. The incidence keeps increasing and current therapeutic options confer limited benefits to the patients. Tumor heterogeneity plays a central role in this context, limiting the availability of predictive biomarkers and complicating the criteria used to choose the most suitable therapeutic option. HCC heterogeneity occurs at different levels: within the population (inter-patient heterogeneity) and within tumors from the same patient (intra-patient and intra-tumor heterogeneity). Experts in the field have made many efforts to classify the patients based on clinicopathological characteristics and molecular signatures; however, there is still much work ahead to be able to integrate the extra-tumor heterogeneity that emerges from the complexity of the tumor microenvironment, which plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of the disease and therapy responses. In this review, we summarize tumor intrinsic and extrinsic sources of heterogeneity of the most common etiologies of HCC and summarize the most recent discoveries regarding the evolutionary trajectory of liver cancer cells and the influence of tumor-extrinsic factors such as the microbiome and the host immune system. We further highlight the potential of novel high-throughput methodologies to contribute to a better understanding of this devastating disease and to the improvement of the clinical management of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Barcena-Varela
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Amaia Lujambio
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- The Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +1-212-824-9338
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Serenari M, Prosperi E, Allard MA, Paterno M, Golse N, Laurenzi A, Adam R, Ravaioli M, Cherqui D, Cescon M. The Impact of Time Interval between Hepatic Resection and Liver Transplantation on Clinical Outcome in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102398. [PMID: 34063501 PMCID: PMC8156967 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Recurrence of disease or worsening of liver function after hepatic resection (HR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may require secondary liver transplantation (SLT). However, a history of HR is supposed to increase the surgical complexity of LT. This is one of the largest series of SLT and it demonstrates that among all the features analyzed regarding the prior HR, only time interval between HR and SLT was an independent predictor of severe complications after SLT. In particular, an increasing probability of severe complications was observed in those patients who were transplanted close (<15 months) to the HR. There was no significant association between HCC-related death and the time between HR and SLT at the multivariable competing risks regression model. Furthermore, these results remained inside the benchmark values recently reported for LT, confirming that tertiary referral centers with consistent experience in HPB surgery and LT may have benefits in both fields. Abstract Hepatic resection (HR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may require secondary liver transplantation (SLT). However, a previous HR is supposed to worsen post-SLT outcomes. Data of patients treated by SLT between 2000 and 2018 at two tertiary referral centers were analyzed. The primary outcome of the study was to analyze the impact of HR on post-LT complications. A Comprehensive Complication Index ≥ 29.6 was chosen as cutoff. The secondary outcome was HCC-related death by means of competing-risk regression analysis. In the study period, 140 patients were included. Patients were transplanted in a median of 23 months after HR (IQR 14–41). Among all the features analyzed regarding the prior HR, only time interval between HR and SLT (time HR-SLT) was an independent predictor of severe complications after LT (OR = 0.98, p < 0.001). According to fractional polynomial regression, the probability of severe complications increased up to 15 months after HR (43%), then slowly decreased over time (OR = 0.88, p < 0.001). There was no significant association between HCC-related death and time HR-SLT at the multivariable competing risks regression model (SHR, 1.06; 95% CI: 0.69–1.62, p = 0.796). This study showed that time HR-SLT was key in predicting complications after LT, without affecting HCC-related death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Serenari
- General Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.S.); (A.L.); (M.R.)
| | - Enrico Prosperi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Marc-Antoine Allard
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, 94805 Villejuif, France; (M.-A.A.); (N.G.); (R.A.); (D.C.)
| | - Michele Paterno
- School of General Surgery, University of Milan, 20157 Milan, Italy;
| | - Nicolas Golse
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, 94805 Villejuif, France; (M.-A.A.); (N.G.); (R.A.); (D.C.)
| | - Andrea Laurenzi
- General Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.S.); (A.L.); (M.R.)
| | - René Adam
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, 94805 Villejuif, France; (M.-A.A.); (N.G.); (R.A.); (D.C.)
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- General Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.S.); (A.L.); (M.R.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Daniel Cherqui
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire, AP-HP Hôpital Paul Brousse, 94805 Villejuif, France; (M.-A.A.); (N.G.); (R.A.); (D.C.)
| | - Matteo Cescon
- General Surgery and Transplant Unit, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy; (M.S.); (A.L.); (M.R.)
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|