Multidisciplinary management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Background/aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a disease with a poor prognosis. Several different therapies have been recommended for use as adjuvant treatment for this disease. One of the most promising therapies is targeted locoregional immuno-chemotherapy.

Materials and methods: From 1990 to 1996, 91 patients who were eligible for liver resection were treated in a prospective randomized study. Forty-two patients received resection alone (Group A) and 49 received resection plus chemoembolization and targeted locoregional immuno-chemotherapy (Group B).

Results: The mortality rate for these two groups was significantly different (13% vs 4%) favoring Group B. Overall survival was also significantly different (18 months vs 36.3 months) again favoring Group B.

Conclusions: Although prognosis is still miserable for HCC, the approach of targeted locoregional immuno-chemotherapy can offer new hope of improved resectability and survival.