Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary tumor of the liver and is considered an aggressive tumor with mean survival estimated between 6 and 20 months. Hepatitis B and C are the most common etiologies. Pathological, laboratory and radiologic imaging all aid in diagnosis but much controversy exists in the utilization of any given modality. Many treatment options exist for management of HCC, each has its own limitation. Liver transplantation offers the most reasonable expectation for curative treatment while simultaneously removing the burden of the diseased liver. Still, advancements in the field have thus far not yet matched its potential, although new immunosuppressive and chemotherapy regimen may allow transplantation to push the envelope once again.

Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma; heptatoma; liver transplantation.

Figure 1

A. Prevelence of Hepatitis B (http://www.hepbnet.org/about.asp); B. Prevelence of Hepatitis C (http://relief.unboundmedicine.com/relief/ub/view/cdc-yellow-book/204050/all/Hepatitis_C)