Reactivation of viral replication after liver resection in patients infected with hepatitis B virus

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

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

Antiviral therapy inhibited HBV-reactivation and improved long-term outcomes in patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation for HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation impact negatively the prognosis of patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to observe the effect of antiviral therapy (AVT) on viral reactivation and long-term outcomes after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) for HBV-related HCC.

METHODS

Data on 538 patients between 2009 and 2013 were reviewed. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to adjust for differences in baseline features between patients who received AVT (AVT group) and did not receive it (non-AVT group). Logistic regression was used to identify the independent factors for viral reactivation. The tumor recurrence and overall survival (OS) rates were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Recurrence patterns were also investigated.

RESULTS

HBV reactivation developed in 10.8% (58/538) of patients after PRFA. AVT was associated independently with decreased viral reactivation (odd ratio: 0.061, 95% confidence interval: 0.018-0.200). In 215 pairs of patients obtained after PSM, the AVT group had lower 1-, 3-, and 5-year recurrence rates (24%, 55%, and 67% vs 33%, 75%, and 85%, respectively) and higher 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates (100%, 67%, and 59% vs 100%, 52%, and 42%, respectively) than non-AVT group (P < 0.001 for both). Additionally, the relapses in distant hepatic segments and the late recurrence after 2 years of PRFA were significantly reduced in the AVT group (78/215 vs 111/215 vs., P = 0.001; 39/109 vs. 61/91, P = 0.012, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

AVT reduced late and distal intrahepatic recurrence and improved OS in patients undergoing PRFA for HBV-related HCC by inhibiting viral reactivation.

Korean Liver Cancer Association (KLCA) and National Cancer Center (NCC) Korea. 2022 KLCA-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

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

Korean Liver Cancer Association (KLCA) and National Cancer Center (NCC) Korea. 2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

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

Risk of HBV reactivation during therapies for HCC: A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Treatment for HCC has evolved rapidly, but the risk of HBV reactivation to new therapies is unclear. We systematically reviewed data on HBV reactivation in patients receiving HCC therapy in relation to use of HBV antiviral prophylaxis.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

A literature search was performed to identify all published studies including HBsAg-positive patients with HCC providing data on HBV reactivation. Forty-one studies with 10,223 patients, all from Asia, were included. The pooled HBV reactivation rate was 5% in patients receiving no specific HCC therapy and was higher in patients undergoing surgical resection (16%), transarterial chemoembolization (19%), or radiotherapy (14%) and intermediate in patients treated with local ablation therapy (7%) or systemic agents (7%). HBV reactivation rates were higher in those without compared to those with HBV prophylaxis (ablation, 9% versus 0%; resection, 20% versus 3%; chemoembolization, 23% versus 1%; external radiotherapy alone, 18% versus 0%; systemic therapy, 9% versus 3%). HBV-related biochemical reactivation rates varied between 6%-11% and 2% in patients receiving HCC therapies with high and intermediate HBV reactivation risk, respectively. Liver decompensation and death were rarely reported (0%-3%) and only in patients receiving HCC treatment with high HBV reactivation risk.

CONCLUSIONS

HBsAg-positive patients with HCC are at high or intermediate risk of HBV reactivation depending on the type of HCC therapy. Nucleos(t)ide analogue prophylaxis reduces the risk of HBV reactivation, practically eliminates the risk of hepatitis flare, and should be administered regardless of HCC treatment.

Hepatitis B virus DNA levels and overall survival in hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma patients with low-level viremia

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Clinical course of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients presenting with low-level viremia (LLV) is unclear.

METHODS

A total of 565 HBV-related HCC patients with LLV (detectable but HBV DNA ≤ 2000 IU/mL) at the time of HCC diagnosis were analyzed. Based on patterns of HBV DNA levels during follow-up, patients were categorized into three groups: maintained virologic remission (MVR), LLV, and flare. Overall survival was compared between those three groups.

RESULTS

During a median 4.5 years of follow-up, 33% showed MVR, 39% showed LLV, and 28% experienced flare. The overall survival differed between MVR, LLV, and flare groups (5-year overall survival: 74.3%, 67.3%, and 61.7%, respectively, 0.015). The patterns of HBV DNA levels were independent factors associated with overall survival, along with age, antiviral treatment, Barcelona clinic liver cancer stage, and initial treatment modality. Flare group showed increased risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15-2.55) compared with MVR group, while the risk was statistically marginal for the LLV group (adjusted HR 1.39, 95% CI 0.95-2.04). During follow-up, 183 patients (32.4%) newly started antiviral therapy (AVT) at LLV. Flare risk was significantly lower among patients who started AVT at LLV compared with those who did not (adjusted HR 0.26, 95% CI 0.17-0.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Among HBV-related HCC patients with LLV, flare was frequent during follow-up and was associated with poorer overall survival compared with MVR group. Prospective studies that address whether inducing MVR by early AVT improves patient outcome are warranted.

2018 Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth most common cancer in men in Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle-aged and elderly patients. These practice guidelines will provide useful and constructive advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 44 experts in hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology in the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2014 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions.

Antiviral therapy improves post-operative survival outcomes in patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma of less than 3 cm - A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The impact of antiviral therapy on long-term survival outcomes in patients with small HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-related HCC) after liver resection is still controversial, as the impact can be overshadowed by tumor-related factors. This study investigated this impact on recurrence and survival in patients with HCC of less than 3 cm.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to further determine the impact of antiviral treatment on prognosis of patients with HCC after liver resection, to verify whether patients with cirrhosis still benefited from antiviral treatment, to study the impact of antiviral treatment on post-operative HCC recurrence, and to determine whether patients with a low preoperative HBV-DNA viral load should receive antiviral therapy.

METHODS

The clinical data on patients who underwent curative liver resection for histopathologically confirmed small HCC (≤3 cm in diameter) were analyzed to determine factors which were related with HCC recurrence and survival. The disease-free and overall survival outcomes were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors of long-term survival.

RESULTS

Of the 795 patients in this study, patients with high preoperative HBV-DNA levels had significantly worse DFS and OS outcomes at 1-, 3- and 5- year after liver resection when compared with those with low HBV-DNA levels (86.1%, 60.8%, 46.6% vs 90.5%, 71.3%, 51.4%; and 98.5%, 89.3%, 75.2% vs 98.8%, 91.5%, 84%, respectively). Patients who received antiviral therapy had significantly better DFS and OS outcomes at 1-, 3- and 5- year after liver resection when compared with those without (91.6%, 69.5%, 55% vs 80.2%, 56%, 44.2%; and 99.6%, 93.5%, 87% vs 96.1%, 80.5%, 61.3%, respectively). Antiviral therapy significantly improved the OS but not DFS outcomes in patients with low HBV-DNA levels. The corresponding 1-, 3- and 5- year DFS and OS outcomes were 92.6%, 73%, 59.1% vs 87.1%, 68.5%, 57.9%; and 99.5%, 95.1%, 91.1% vs 97.6%, 85.5%, 72.4%, respectively. Antiviral treatment significantly prolonged DFS and OS in patients with cirrhosis. The corresponding 1-, 3- and 5- year DFS and OS were 90.2%, 66%, 49% vs 73.9%, 46.6%, 32.8%; and 100%, 93.6%, 85% vs 93.8%, 73.3%, 52.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Antiviral therapy improved the prognosis of small HBV-related HCC of less than 3 cm. The survival benefit was also detected in patients with cirrhosis. Antiviral therapy should be considered a routine post-operative therapy for patients with HBV-related HCC.

2018 Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer globally and the fourth most common cancer in men in Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle-aged and elderly patients. These practice guidelines will provide useful and constructive advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 44 experts in hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology and radiation oncology in the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2014 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions.

Effects of TACE and preventive antiviral therapy on HBV reactivation and subsequent hepatitis in hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Background and aim

The impact of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and preventive antiviral therapy on the occurrence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation and subsequent hepatitis remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of TACE and preventive antiviral therapy on the risk of HBV reactivation and subsequent hepatitis. Meanwhile, we explored the role of HBeAg status in HBV reactivation after TACE.

Methods

We performed this meta-analysis with 11 included studies to assess the effect of TACE and preventive antiviral therapy on predicting clinical outcomes in HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated using a random or fixed effects model. PUBMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled were searched for the included articles (from 2000 to December 2017).

Results

Our results showed that TACE significantly increased the risk of HBV reactivation (OR: 3.70; 95% CI 1.45–9.42; P < 0.01) and subsequent hepatitis (OR: 4.30; 95% CI 2.28–8.13; P < 0.01) in HCC patients. There was no significant difference in HBV reactivation after TACE between HBeAg positive and negative patients (OR: 1.28; 95% CI 0.31–5.34; P = 0.73). Preventive antiviral therapy could statistically reduce the rate of HBV reactivation (OR: 0.08; 95% CI 0.02–0.32; P < 0.01) and hepatitis (OR: 0.22; 95% CI 0.06–0.80; P = 0.02) in those with TACE treatment.

Conclusions

The present study suggested that TACE was associated with a higher possibility of HBV reactivation and subsequent hepatitis. Preventive antiviral therapy is significantly in favor of a protective effect.

Impact of Preoperative Hepatitis B Virus Levels on Prognosis After Primary and Repeat Hepatectomies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients-a Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

Chronic HBV plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma pathogenesis. Previously, most studies have been focusing on HBV DNA levels before the primary curative hepatectomy. However, the association of virus level before repeat hepatectomy with the degrees of inflammation and fibrosis on histopathology and prognosis has not been surveyed.

METHODS

From January 2002 to December 2009, all patients who were seropositive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) were enrolled and assigned into four groups based on their HBV DNA levels before the primary and repeat hepatectomies. The cancer prognoses of these four groups of patients after the first and second operations were assessed and compared. The disease-free survival and overall survival were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for the primary and repeat hepatectomies.

RESULTS

For the 385 patients in this study, a low level of serum HBV DNA before repeat hepatectomy, but not primary hepatectomy, was significantly associated with improvement in prognosis, in terms of tumor recurrence, liver fibrosis, and liver-related mortality.

CONCLUSION

The levels of HBV DNA before hepatectomies were crucial prognostic risk factors of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Surveillance of serum HBV DNA levels at multiple time points, rather than at a single time point, and antiviral therapy to suppress the virus to a low level had beneficial effects for these patients.

Effects of antiviral therapy on post-hepatectomy HBV reactivation and liver function in HBV DNA-negative patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma

The ability of antiviral therapy to reduce risk of post-hepatectomy hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in patients negative for viral DNA is unclear. This prospective study involved 174 consecutive patients with hepatitis B virus related hepatocellular carcinoma who were negative for hepatitis B virus DNA in serum and who underwent hepatic resection. Hepatitis B virus reactivation occurred in 30 patients in the non-antiviral group (27.8%) but in only 2 patients in the antiviral group (3.0%, P < 0.001). Based on multivariate analysis, risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation was associated with minor hepatectomy and absence of antiviral therapy. Liver function indicators at one week after resection did not differ significantly between the two groups, or between patients who experienced hepatitis B virus reactivation or not. Nevertheless, alanine aminotransferase and albumin at 1 month after resection were significantly higher in the antiviral group than in the non-antiviral group, and they were significantly higher in patients who did not experience hepatitis B virus reactivation than in those who did. Therefore, patients with hepatitis B virus related hepatocellular carcinoma face substantial risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation after hepatectomy, even if they are negative for viral DNA at baseline. Antiviral therapy can reduce the risk of reactivation, helping improve liver function after surgery. (Clinicaltrials.gov registration number: NCT02829359).

The progress and prospects of routine prophylactic antiviral treatment in hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver cancer is a common cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Among all types of primary liver cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major histological subtype, and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the leading cause of HCC. Treatments for hepatitis B related HCC include hepatectomy, liver transplantation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), ablative therapy, and Sorafenib treatment. However, HBV reactivation can occur in patients who receive these treatments, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. However, prophylactic antiviral treatment in patients with hepatitis B-related HCC, can reduce the copies of HBV DNA, prevent HBV reactivation, reduce hepatic inflammation, reverse liver fibrosis, decrease tumor recurrence and metastasis, and extend survival time. Prophylactic antiviral treatment should be routinely performed as an important adjuvant therapy in HBV-related HCC patients.

Management of hepatitis B virus infection during treatment for hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma

Although liver resection is considered the most effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), treatment outcomes are unsatisfactory because of the high rate of HCC recurrence. Since we reported hepatitis B e-antigen positivity and high serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA concentrations are strong risk factors for HCC recurrence after curative resection of HBV-related HCC in the early 2000s, many investigators have demonstrated the effects of viral status on HCC recurrence and post-treatment outcomes. These findings suggest controlling viral status is important to prevent HCC recurrence and improve survival after curative treatment for HBV-related HCC. Antiviral therapy after curative treatment aims to improve prognosis by preventing HCC recurrence and maintaining liver function. Therapy with interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogs may be useful for preventing HCC recurrence and improving overall survival in patients who have undergone curative resection for HBV-related HCC. In addition, reactivation of viral replication can occur after liver resection for HBV-related HCC. Antiviral therapy can be recommended for patients to prevent HBV reactivation. Nevertheless, further studies are required to establish treatment guidelines for patients with HBV-related HCC.

2014 KLCSG-NCC Korea Practice Guideline for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was first developed in 2003 and revised in 2009 by the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group and the National Cancer Center, Korea. Since then, many studies on HCC have been carried out in Korea and other countries. In particular, a substantial body of knowledge has been accumulated on diagnosis, staging, and treatment specific to Asian characteristics, especially Koreans, prompting the proposal of new strategies. Accordingly, the new guideline presented herein was developed on the basis of recent evidence and expert opinions. The primary targets of this guideline are patients with suspicious or newly diagnosed HCC. This guideline provides recommendations for the initial treatment of patients with newly diagnosed HCC.

2014 Korean Liver Cancer Study Group-National Cancer Center Korea practice guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

The guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was first developed in 2003 and revised in 2009 by the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group and the National Cancer Center, Korea. Since then, many studies on HCC have been carried out in Korea and other countries. In particular, a substantial body of knowledge has been accumulated on diagnosis, staging, and treatment specific to Asian characteristics, especially Koreans, prompting the proposal of new strategies. Accordingly, the new guideline presented herein was developed on the basis of recent evidence and expert opinions. The primary targets of this guideline are patients with suspicious or newly diagnosed HCC. This guideline provides recommendations for the initial treatment of patients with newly diagnosed HCC.

Short Term Virologic Efficacies of Telbivudine versus Entecavir against Hepatitis B-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Telbivudine has been reported to be more effective than lamivudine. However, because of the resistance rate to telbivudine (TLV), the current guidelines recommend entecavir (ETV) or tenofovir (TNV) as the first-line therapy for chronic hepatitis B. We investigated the short term virologic efficacy of TLV in comparison with ETV as the first-line agent of HBV suppression in HBV-related advanced HCC patients. A total of 86 consecutive patients with HBV-related HCC for whom antiviral treatment was initiated in Incheon St. Mary's Hospital between 2010 and 2013 were analyzed. Virologic responses were investigated on the 4th, 12th, and 24th weeks of the antiviral therapies. In patients with advanced TNM stage cancer (stage 3 or 4) and poor liver function (Child-Pugh class B or C), the virologic response rates at weeks 12 and 24 were 25% (1/4) and 42.8% (3/7) in the TLV group and 33.3% (1/3) and 33.3% (1/3) in the ETV group, respectively (P = 0.424, P = 0.800). The short term efficacy of TLV was similar to that of ETV. Since TLV is highly cost-effective, it should be considered as a first-line antiviral agent in patients with advanced HCC, poor liver function, and short life expectancies.

Does anti-HBV therapy benefit the prognosis of HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma following hepatectomy?

The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an important etiological factor for hepatocarcinogenesis, because HBV DNA load and HBV reactivation are major risks that influence the long-term survival of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who underwent hepatectomy and, thus, may cause postoperative liver function deterioration, tumor recurrence, and reduce patient's overall survival. However, anti-HBV therapy can suppress HBV replication, improve the remnant liver function, render patients better able to tolerate HCC treatments, and may even improve their prognosis. In this paper, an anti-HBV therapy that benefits the prognosis of HBV-related HCC following hepatectomy is reviewed.

Effect and safety of interferon for hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The effect of interferon(IFN) in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial, and no clear recommendations have been proposed.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect and safety of IFN for HCC.

Methods

PubMed, OvidSP, and Cochrane Library were searched from their establishment date until August 30, 2012. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were systematically evaluated and then subjected to meta-analysis.

Results

Thirteen randomized control trials (RCTs) involving 1344 patients were eligible for this study. When IFN was used as an adjuvant therapy for HCC patients after curative therapy, the meta-analysis showed that IFN reduced the 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year recurrence rates. Subgroup analysis showed that IFN reduced the 2-, 3-, 4-, and 5-year recurrence rates of hepatitis C viral (HCV)-related HCC. The effect of IFN for on hepatitis B virus(HBV)-related HCC patients could not be determined because of isufficient data. After surgical resection, adjuvant IFN therapy reduced the 4- and 5- recurrence rates. All studies reported that IFN could not improve the overall survival of HCV-realated HCC patients after curative therapies. Only one study showed that IFN was associated with better overall survival in HCC patients after curative therapy and subgroup of HCC patients after surgical resection. Thus, meta-analysis was not performed. Different treatment options were used as control to study the effect of IFN for intermediate and advanced HCC patients, thus meta-analysis was not appropriate. All included studies, except for one, reported that IFN treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusions

After curative therapies, adjuvant IFN reduced the recurrence of HCC. IFN did not improve the survival of HCV-related HCC patients after curative therapy. Whether IFN is effective for intermediate and advanced HCC patients could not be determined because of insufficient data. The toxicity of IFN was acceptable.

Perioperative antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

After effective treatment with antiviral agent, patients with low serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level had a low incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV reactivation after HCC surgery is associated with HCC recurrence. To date, there are no universal guidelines for the perioperative antiviral treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B, let alone antiviral therapy in patients with HBV-related HCC. The present analysis is trying to develop a perioperative anti-HBV treatment protocol.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search of PubMed was performed, the key words were "perioperative" "antiviral therapy", "hepatocellular carcinoma" and "chronic hepatitis B". All of the information was collected.

RESULTS

Relevant documents showed that reactivation of HBV replication played a direct role in the late recurrence of HCC after surgical resection. The well control of viral load before and after operation significantly increased tumor-free survival. Many drugs are used in antiviral therapy including interferon alpha and nucleoside analogues. Foscarnet, two-agent or even multiagent of nucleoside analogues is necessary for perioperative antiviral treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B related HCC.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV reactivation after HCC surgery induces hepatitis flare and hepatocarcinogenesis, thus lifelong and vigorous control of HBV is very important in patients with chronic hepatitis B and HBV-related HCC. A uniform guideline is necessary to rapidly reduce HBV DNA to a lower level in perioperation.

Antiviral therapy decreases viral reactivation in patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing hepatectomy: a randomized controlled trial

This prospective randomized controlled trial investigated whether antiviral therapy decreases the risk of perioperative viral reactivation in patients with hepatitis B virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing liver resection were screened. Eighty-four patients with low viral load were randomly assigned to receive either antiviral treatment with telbivudine or no therapy. The primary outcome was reactivation of viral replication. Secondary outcomes included liver function recovery and postoperative liver insufficiency. A total of 15 patients developed HBV reactivation during the perioperative period, of which 8 (57.1%) were within the first week after hepatectomy. The incidence of viral reactivation during the perioperative period was 2.5% (1/40) in the antiviral-treated group, compared with 31.8% (14/44) in the control group [HR 0.07 (95%CI 0.01-0.65); P = 0.001]. Liver function recovery was achieved in 82.5% (33/40) patients in the antiviral group on day 30 after hepatectomy, compared with 91.0% (40/44) in the nonantiviral group [HR 1.23 (95%CI 0.98-2.55); P = 0.109]. A total of 7 patients (8.9%) had postoperative liver insufficiency in both groups, but there was no relevant difference between the two groups. Antiviral therapy with telbivudine can significantly decrease the perioperative reactivation of viral replication in patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing liver resection. Antiviral therapy is an appropriate option for all patients with viral replication undergoing liver resection. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, number ChiCTR-TRC-0900615).

Hepatitis B virus reactivation after radiofrequency ablation or hepatic resection for HBV-related small hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) happens after systemic chemotherapy, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or hepatic resection for HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. The incidence and risk factors of HBV reactivation after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From August 2006 to August 2011, 218 consecutive patients with HBV-related small HCC treated with RFA (n = 125) or hepatic resection (n = 93) were retrospectively studied. The incidence of HBV reactivation and risk factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

HBV reactivation developed in 20 (9.2%) patients after treatment. The incidence of HBV reactivation was significantly lower in the RFA group (5.6%, 7/125) than the hepatic resection group (14.0%, 13/93, P = 0.034). On univariate and multivariate analyses, no antiviral therapy (OR 11.7; 95% CI 1.52-90.8, P = 0.018) and treatment with RFA/hepatic resection (OR3.36; 95% CI 1.26-8.97, P = 0.016) were significant risk factors of HBV reactivation. On subgroup analysis, the incidence of HBV reactivation was lower in patients who received antiviral therapy than those who did not receive antiviral therapy in both the hepatic resection group (2.9% vs. 20.7%, P = 0.027) and the RFA group (0% vs. 7.6%, P = 0.188), although the difference was not significant in the latter group.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of HBV reactivation after RFA was relatively low when compared with hepatic resection. Prophylactic antiviral therapy is recommended, especially for patients who are going to receive hepatic resection for HBV-related HCC to decrease the incidence of post-treatment HBV reactivation.

Posthepatectomy HBV reactivation in hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma influences postoperative survival in patients with preoperative low HBV-DNA levels. Ann Surg. 2013;257:490-505. [PMID: 22868358 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e318262b218]

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to clarify the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation and its significance on long-term survival after partial hepatectomy in patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), who had preoperative low HBV-DNA level of less than 2000 IU/mL.

BACKGROUND

HBV reactivation is a frequent complication of systemic chemotherapy in hepatitis B surface antigen-positive patients. Surgery and anesthesia result in a generalized state of immunosuppression in the immediate postoperative period. Data on HBV reactivation and its significance after partial hepatectomy are unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients from January 2006 to December 2007 were retrospectively studied.

RESULTS

HBV reactivation happened in 19.1% of patients in 1 year. There were 28 patients whose HBV reactivation was detected after the diagnosis of HCC recurrence. On multivariate analysis, hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positivity, preoperative HBV-DNA above the lower limit of quantification (≥200 IU/mL), Ishak inflammation score of greater than 3, preoperative transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), operation time of more than 180 minutes, blood transfusion, and without prophylactic antiviral therapy were significantly associated with an increased risk of HBV reactivation. HBV reactivation negatively influenced postoperative hepatic functions. The posthepatectomy liver failure rate in patients with HBV reactivation was significantly higher than in those without reactivation (11.8% vs 6.4%; P = 0.002). The 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate and overall survival (OS) rates after resection in patients with HBV reactivation were significantly lower than those without reactivation (34.1% vs 46.0%; P = 0.009, and 51.6% vs 67.2%; P < 0.001, respectively). HBeAg positivity, detectable preoperative HBV-DNA level, high Ishak inflammation score, preoperative TACE, long operation time, and blood transfusion were independent risk factors for HBV reactivation, whereas prophylactic antiviral therapy was a protective factor. HBV reactivation, HBeAg positivity, HBV-DNA level of 200 IU/mL or more, tumor diameter greater than 5 cm, presence of satellite nodules, presence of portal vein tumor thrombus, blood transfusion, and resection margin less than 1.0 cm were independent risk factors for DFS. A HBV-DNA level of 200 IU/mL or more, an Ishak fibrosis score of 4 or greater, a tumor diameter greater than 5 cm, the presence of satellite nodules, the presence of portal vein tumor thrombus, a resection margin less than 1.0 cm, no prophylactic antiviral therapy, and HBV reactivation were independent risk factors for OS.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV reactivation was common after partial hepatectomy for HBV-related HCC with a preoperative low HBV-DNA level of less than 2000 IU/mL. Routine prophylactic antiviral treatment should be given before partial hepatectomy.

Effects of antiviral therapy on hepatitis B virus reactivation and liver function after resection or chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

How hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection react to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment remains unclear, and the roles of anti-HBV therapy were seldom reported in HCC.

AIMS

To evaluate changes of HBV replication and liver function after hepatectomy or transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for HCC, also the short-term effects of anti-viral therapy were analyzed.

METHODS

Totally, 590 HBsAg (+) HCC patients were recruited into two groups: only surgical resection, and only TACE, and subgrouped according to anti-HBV therapy or none. Clinical data were analyzed for statistical significance and risk factors for adverse events.

RESULTS

In the no antiviral therapy groups, rates of HBV reactivation were 15.7% and 17.5% in patients who underwent hepatectomy and TACE, respectively, while the rates of deterioration of liver function were 4.1% and 8.1%, respectively. In contrast, in the antivirus group, the rates of reactivation were 0% and 1.5% after hepatectomy and TACE respectively, while the liver function deterioration rates were 2.4% and 1.5%, respectively. For patients who underwent hepatectomy, no antiviral therapy, and long hepatic inflow occlusion times increased the risk of HBV reactivation. For TACE, no antivirus and HBeAg negativity were the risk factors for reactivation. HBV reactivation was significantly correlated to liver function exacerbation after hepatectomy, while HBV reactivation, baseline ALT (alanine aminotransferase), and α-fetoprotein levels were significantly correlated to liver function exacerbation after TACE.

CONCLUSIONS

HBV reactivation can occur after hepatectomy or TACE. Anti-HBV therapy can reduce the risk of reactivation, thus reducing the risk of liver failure especially in patients undergoing TACE.

Clinical and virological responses to clevudine therapy of hepatocelluar carcinoma patients with chronic hepatitis B

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The clinical effects of clevudine have been reported in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infections (CHIs). In this investigation, we assessed whether clevudine induced biochemical and virological improvements in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with CHI.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients who received 30 mg clevudine for more than 24 weeks between 2007 and 2009 at the National Cancer Center Hospital, Korea, were enrolled. Among these cases, 39 had HCC (CHI/HCC group) and 15 did not (CHI group).

RESULTS

In relation to the CHI group, the CHI/HCC group was older (55.5 years.) and had a higher liver cirrhosis rate (79.5%) (p<0.05). Median changes in serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels from baseline at weeks 12, 24, and 36 of treatment in the CHI/HCC group were not significantly different from those of the CHI group (-2.3, -2.7, -2.6 vs -1.7, -1.8, -2.4, respectively). HBV DNA <2,000 copies/mL was achieved in 76.5% of the CHI/HCC group at 24 weeks. Rates of ALT normalization in the CHI/HCC and CHI groups were 62.5% and 66.7%, respectively (p>0.05). Liver function was preserved with clevudine treatment in patients displaying response or stable disease under anti-cancer therapy. Four patients (7.4%) developed viral resistance during clevudine therapy. Among these, one was naïve, and three had previously received antiviral therapy. One CHI/HCC patient (1.9%) discontinued clevudine treatment due to symptomatic myopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings clearly indicate that clevudine has comparable antiviral and biochemical effects in patients with CHI and with CHI/HCC and preserves the underlying liver function in HBV-related HCC patients.

[Practice guidelines for management of hepatocellular carcinoma 2009]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cancer in Korea, typically has a poor prognosis, and constitutes the majority of primary hepatic malignancies. It is the number one cause of death among people in their 50s in Korea. The five-year survival rate of liver cancer is poor; at 18.9%. Efforts to increase the survival rate through early diagnosis of HCC and optimal treatments are keenly needed. Western guideline for the management of HCC were developed, but these guidelines are somewhat unsuitable for Korean patients. Thus, the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group (KLCSG) and the National Cancer Center (NCC), Korea jointly produced the Clinical Practice Guidelines for HCC for the first time in Korea in 2003. Owing to medical advances over the following six years, diagnosis and treatment of HCC has changed considerably. As more national and foreign data are accumulated, KLCSG and NCC, Korea recently revised the Clinical Practice Guidelines for HCC. Forty or more specialists in the field of hepatology, general surgery, radiology and radiation oncology participated, and meticulously reviewed national and foreign papers, and collected opinions through advisory committee conferences. These multidisciplinary, evidence-based guidelines summarized diagnosis, surgical resection, liver transplantation, local treatments, transarterial chemoembolization, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, preemptive antiviral treatments, and response evaluation of HCC. These Korean guidelines are expected to be useful for clinical management of and research on HCC.

Efficacy of lamivudine on hepatitis B viral status and liver function in patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) depends on the tumour extent and underlying liver function. Antiviral therapy with nucleoside/nucleotide analogues has been shown to be effective in improving the liver function of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. We assessed whether lamivudine could induce biochemical and virological improvements in patients with hepatitis B virus-related HCC.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Of 148 CHB patients treated with 100 mg/day lamivudine for at least 6 months, 80 had HCC (CHB/HCC group) and 68 did not (CHB group). Biochemical and virological parameters were serially monitored.

RESULTS

Compared with the CHB group, the CHB/HCC group was older, had higher male predominance, bilirubin levels and liver cirrhosis rate, and lower albumin and hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positivity (P<0.05 each). The two groups showed similar cumulative rates of alanine aminotransferase normalization, HBV DNA seroconversion, HBeAg loss and viral breakthrough during 12 months of lamivudine treatment. After 12 months, the CHB/HCC group showed, relative to baseline, increased albumin levels (3.51+/-0.5 vs. 3.72+/-0.5 mg/ml) and decreased ascites scores (1.63+/-0.7 vs. 1.45+/-0.6) and Child-Pugh scores (6.92+/-1.9 vs. 6.02+/-1.38) (P<0.05 each).

CONCLUSION

Lamivudine had comparable antiviral effects both in patients with CHB and CHB/HCC, and improved underlying liver function in the latter group. Treatment of HBV may increase the chance of curative treatments in patients with HBV-related HCC.

[Management of hepatitis B virus reactivation during chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy]

Reactivation of viral hepatitis B is a well-known complication in patients receiving chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy; its incidence reaches 50%. This reactivation is associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Prophylactic treatment of viral reactivation with lamivudine resulted in lowering the incidence of this risk and improving prognosis in recent studies. Patients with hematological malignancies and other cancers require a precise assessment of their hepatitis B status and adequate management. There is not yet a consensus about the appropriateness of prophylactic treatment of occult hepatitis B infection or of pretreatment virologic assessment, especially measurement of viral DNA.

Antiviral prophylaxis for chemotherapy-induced reactivation of chronic hepatitis B virus infection

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers are at considerable risk of reactivation of HBV infection when undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy. Complications of HBV reactivation, including asymptomatic elevation of HBV DNA levels, acute hepatitis, acute liver failure, and delays or dose reductions in chemotherapy, are avoidable with appropriate prophylactic oral antiviral therapy. This article reviews evidence for and presents a grade A recommendation supporting primary prophylaxis among HBV carriers with lamivudine. The dose and duration of prophylaxis, risk of lamivudine resistance, and future directions of prophylactic therapy for HBV reactivation during chemotherapy are discussed. Recommendations are suggested based on expert opinion for prophylaxis with the combination of lamivudine plus adefovir or with entecavir as alternative antiviral strategies that substantially reduce or avoid the risk of HBV antiviral drug resistance.

A study into the risk of exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver resection is commonly performed for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in well-compensated cirrhotic and noncirrhotic patients. Data concerning exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B (ECHB) post-liver resection are scant. To determine the incidence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of ECHB in patients who underwent hepatic resection for HCC. The methods consisted of a retrospective review of consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection who had undergone liver resection for HCC from January 2002 to December 2004. Seventy-seven patients underwent 82 liver resections; the mean age was 58.0 +/- 12.1 years; 87% male; 20% hepatitis B e-antigen positive. Incidence of all causes of postoperative hepatitis was 25.6% (n = 21), and ECHB was 8.5% (n = 7). Both groups had their peak alanine aminotransferases, 231.0 IU/L (74-1,400) and 312 IU/L (147-1,400), respectively, observed at day 84 postresection. Three patients died as a result of ECHB within 4 months postsurgery. One- and 2-year survival rates were poorest for the ECHB group at 42.9 and 21.4%, compared with those with postoperative hepatitis due to other causes at 60.3 and 45.2% and those without postoperative hepatitis at 87.7 and 73.5% (p < 0.001). Liver resection for HCC in patients with chronic HBV infection carries a risk for ECHB, and affected patients have poorer clinical outcomes. There is a need for close monitoring of these patients preoperatively and in the early postoperative period.

Systematic review: lamivudine prophylaxis for chemotherapy-induced reactivation of chronic hepatitis B virus infection

BACKGROUND

Reactivation of hepatitis B virus infection in asymptomatic hepatitis B surface antigen carriers undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy is a well-documented and potentially fatal complication. Data supporting the use of lamivudine for primary prophylaxis have emerged, but its use remains controversial and is not standardized.

AIM

To review current randomized-controlled trials, randomized trials and prospective case series to provide a clinically applicable, evidence-based recommendation.

METHODS

The published literature was identified using a MEDLINE/PubMed search with secondary review of cited publications, and inclusion of all prospective studies.

RESULTS

In nine prospective trials and one randomized-controlled trial, the rate of hepatitis among subjects receiving lamivudine prophylaxis ranged from 0% to 20% (16 of 173, 9.2%), compared with 33-67% among controls. Of patients receiving prophylaxis, 0-24% (15 of 173, 8.7%) developed hepatitis B virus reactivation, compared with 29-56% of controls. Three reactivation-related mortalities were reported (one receiving prophylaxis, two controls). No patients withdrew secondary to toxicity or development of lamivudine-resistant mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

The available data show a four- to sevenfold decrease in the rate of hepatitis and hepatitis B virus reactivation in patients who receive lamivudine prophylaxis. It is thus recommended that all hepatitis B surface antigen carriers receive lamivudine, or a comparable anti-viral agent, as prophylaxis from the initiation of chemotherapy until at least 1 year following its completion.

Risk of hepatitis B exacerbation is low after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization therapy for patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma: report of a prospective study

OBJECTIVES

Systemic chemotherapy may lead to immune suppression and possible reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV), suggesting prophylactic antiviral therapy in cancer patients with HBV. Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not a systemic chemotherapy, but has been partially associated with HBV reactivation. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether TACE aggravates HBV hepatitis in patients with HBV-related HCC.

METHODS

Eighty-nine patients with HBV-related HCC were studied prospectively. Patients treated with TACE were enrolled in the case group (n = 69), and patients in follow-up or awaiting treatment were enrolled in the control group (n = 20). TACE was performed with doxorubicin (20-60 mg) and lipiodol (2-20 mL).

RESULTS

Three (4.3%) patients in the TACE group and 2 (10%) patients in the control group showed HBV reactivation (p= 0.334). A twofold or more increase in serum HBV DNA was detected in 21 (30.4%) patients in the TACE group and 4 (20%) patients in the control group (p= 0.361). Exacerbation of viral hepatitis B was found in 4 (5.8%) patients in the TACE group and no patients in the control group, but the difference between the two rates was not statistically significant (p= 0.271). Three of the four reactivated patients showed spontaneous recovery within 1 month, and one showed tumor-progression-related exacerbation.

CONCLUSIONS

One session of TACE using doxorubicin and lipiodol does not significantly aggravate HBV hepatitis in patients with HBV-related HCC.

Effect of the presence of hepatitis B e antigen on prognosis after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B

We examineded the clinical effects of serum hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) positivity on clinicopathologic findings and prognosis after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis B. A series of 56 patients who underwent curative resection were divided into two groups: 25 HBeAg-positive patients (group 1) and 31 HBeAg-negative patients (group 2). The mean age was significantly lower in group 1 than in group 2 (p = 0.0021), and the proportion of patients with symptoms was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (p = 0.037). There were no significant differences in other clinical findings between the two groups, including laboratory test results, coexisting medical conditions, and operative methods. Although tumor size, degree of differentiation of the main tumor, and the prevalence of vascular invasion did not differ between the groups, the prevalence of intrahepatic metastasis and the proportion of patients with active hepatitis were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (p = 0.009 and p = 0.043, respectively). Tumor-free and cumulative survival rates were significantly lower in group 1 than in group 2 (p = 0.022 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Multivariate analysis of various possible risk factors demonstrated serum HBeAg positivity to be an independent risk factor for recurrence [risk ratio (RR) 2.49; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12-5.49; p = 0.032] and an independent unfavorable factor for the survival time (RR 7.58; 95% CI 2.10-27.8; p = 0.0020). We concluded that the prognosis after liver resection for HCC is worse for HBeAg-positive patients than for HBeAg-negative patients.

A 15-year retrospective study of hepatic resection for stage IV-A hepatocellular carcinoma shows value in hepatitis B negative patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to identify the risk factors of survival and recurrence after curative hepatic resection for stage IV-A hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

Sixty-five patients with stage IV-A HCC who underwent curative hepatic resection and discharged from hospital were enrolled in this retrospective study. Prognostic factors were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Clinicopathologic features and survival with stage IV-A HCC were compared with those of 290 patients with stage I to III HCC who underwent curative hepatic resection during the same period.

RESULTS

Disease-free and overall survival for patients with stage IV-A HCC was significantly lower than for those with stage I to III HCC. Positive hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen was an independent prognostic factor of poor disease-free and overall survivals in patients with stage IV-A HCC. There were no significant differences in the disease-free and overall survivals between non-HBV-related stage IV-A HCC and stage I to III HCC.

CONCLUSIONS

Even for patients with highly advanced HCC, curative hepatic resection may be a feasible therapeutic option for those with non-HBV-related HCC.

Virologic and biochemical changes and prognosis after liver resection for hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

During the natural course of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, clearance of HB e antigen (HBeAg) and HB surface antigen (HBsAg) occurs with remission of liver disease. We investigated the effects of postoperative changes in virologic and biochemical parameters on the prognosis after liver resection for HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

We investigated the relationship between postoperative changes in virologic and biochemical parameters and the incidence of intrahepatic recurrence and the outcome during a 3-year period following surgery in 30 HCC patients with HBsAg.

RESULTS

The incidence of intrahepatic recurrence of HCC was significantly higher in patients with acute postoperative exacerbation of hepatitis (p = 0.0084), a sustained high serum concentration of HBV DNA (> or = 5.0 mEq/ml, p = 0.001), and sustained expression of HBsAg after surgery (p = 0.0421). A high serum concentration of HBV DNA was significantly associated with a shorter survival time (p = 0.0447) and the cause of death was recurrence of HCC.

CONCLUSION

Patients with acute postoperative exacerbation of hepatitis, sustained HBsAg expression, and sustained high serum concentrations of HBV DNA after surgery may require more intensive postoperative monitoring for HCC recurrence.