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Martinino A, Bucaro A, Cardella F, Wazir I, Frongillo F, Ardito F, Giovinazzo F. Liver transplantation vs liver resection in HCC: promoting extensive collaborative research through a survival meta-analysis of meta-analyses. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1366607. [PMID: 38567152 PMCID: PMC10986178 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1366607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background HCC is a major global health concern, necessitating effective treatment strategies. This study conducts a meta-analysis of meta-analyses comparing liver resection (LR) and liver transplantation (LT) for HCC. Methods The systematic review included meta-analyses comparing liver resection vs. liver transplantation in HCC, following PRISMA guidelines. Primary outcomes included 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). AMSTAR-2 assessed study quality. Citation matrix and hierarchical clustering validated the consistency of the included studies. Results A search identified 10 meta-analyses for inclusion. The median Pearson correlation coefficient for citations was 0.59 (IQR 0.41-0.65). LT showed better 5-year survival and disease-free survival in all HCC (OR): 0.79; 95% CI: 0.67-0.93, I^2:57% and OR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.25-0.75, I^2:96%). Five-year survival in early HCC and ITT was 0.63 (95% CI: 0.50-0.78, I^2:0%) and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.39-0.92, I^2:0%). Salvage LT vs. Primary LT did not differ between 5-year survival and disease-free survival (OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.33-1.15, I^2:0% and 0.93; 95% CI: 0.82-1.04, I^2:0%). Conclusion Overall, the study underscores the superior survival outcomes associated with LT over LR in HCC treatment, supported by comprehensive meta-analysis and clustering analysis. There was no difference in survival or recurrence rate between salvage LT and primary LT. Therefore, considering the organ shortage, HCC can be resected and transplanted in case of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Bucaro
- General Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Cardella
- Surgical Oncology of Gastrointestinal Tract Unit, Vanvitelli University, Naples, Italy
| | - Ishaan Wazir
- Vardhaman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Francesco Frongillo
- General Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ardito
- Hepatobilairy and General Surgery Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Giovinazzo
- General Surgery and Liver Transplant Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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2
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Drefs M, Schoenberg MB, Börner N, Koliogiannis D, Koch DT, Schirren MJ, Andrassy J, Bazhin AV, Werner J, Guba MO. Changes of long-term survival of resection and liver transplantation in hepatocellular carcinoma throughout the years: A meta-analysis. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2024; 50:107952. [PMID: 38237275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2024.107952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) still is one of the most detrimental malignant diseases in the world. As two curative surgical therapies exist, the discussion whether to opt for liver resection (LR) or transplantation (LT) is ongoing, especially as novel techniques to improve outcome have emerged for both. The aim of the study was to investigate how the utilization and outcome of the respective modalities changed through time. METHODS We searched Medline and PubMed for relevant publications comparing LT and LR in HCC patients during the time period from 1990 to 2022, prior to March 31, 2023. A total of 63 studies involving 19,804 patients - of whom 8178 patients received a liver graft and 11,626 underwent partial hepatectomy - were included in this meta-analysis. RESULTS LT is associated with significantly better 5-year overall survival (OS) (64.83%) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) (70.20%) than LR (OS: 50.83%, OR: 1.79, p < 0.001; RFS: 34.46%, OR: 5.32, p < 0.001). However, these differences are not as evident in short-term intervals. Older cohorts showed comparable disparities between the outcome of the respective modalities, as did newer cohorts after 2005. This might be due to the similar improvement in survival rates that were observed for both, LT (15-23%) and LR (12-20%) during the last 30 years. CONCLUSION LT still outperforms LR in the therapy of HCC in terms of long-term survival rates. Yet, LR outcome has remarkably improved which is of major importance in reference to the well-known limitations that occur in LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Drefs
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany.
| | - Markus B Schoenberg
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany; Medical Centers Gollierplatz and Nymphenburg, Munich, Germany
| | - Nikolaus Börner
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Dionysios Koliogiannis
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik T Koch
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Malte J Schirren
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Andrassy
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Alexandr V Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Munich, Germany
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, Germany; Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Munich, Germany
| | - Markus O Guba
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany; Transplantation Center Munich, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany
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Dong SC, Bai DS, Wang FA, Jin SJ, Zhang C, Zhou BH, Jiang GQ. Radiofrequency ablation is an inferior option to liver resection for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma ≤ 5 cm without cirrhosis: A population-based study with stratification by tumor size. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2023; 22:605-614. [PMID: 35977873 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 10%-20% of all individuals who develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) do not have cirrhosis. Comparisons are rarely reported regarding the effectiveness of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and liver resection (LR) in survival of HCC without cirrhosis and stratification by tumor size ≤ 5 cm. METHODS We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and identified 1505 patients with a solitary HCC tumor ≤ 5 cm who underwent RFA or LR during 2004-2015. Patients were classified into non-cirrhosis and cirrhosis groups and each group was categorized into three subgroups, according to tumor size (≤ 30 mm, 31-40 mm, 41-50 mm). RESULTS In patients without cirrhosis, LR showed better 5-year HCC cancer-specific survival than RFA in all tumor size subgroups (≤ 30 mm: 82.51% vs. 56.42%; 31-40 mm: 71.31% vs. 46.83%; 41-50 mm: 74.7% vs. 37.5%; all P < 0.05). Compared with RFA, LR was an independent protective factor for HCC cancer-specific survival in multivariate Cox analysis [≤ 30 mm: hazard ratio (HR) = 0.533, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.313-0.908; 31-40 mm: HR = 0.439, 95% CI: 0.201-0.957; 41-50 mm: HR = 0.382; 95% CI: 0.159-0.916; all P < 0.05]. In patients with cirrhosis, for both tumor size ≤ 30 mm and 31-40 mm groups, there were no significant survival differences between RFA and LR in multivariate analysis (all P > 0.05). However, in those with tumor size 41-50 mm, LR showed significantly better 5-year HCC cancer-specific survival than RFA in both univariate (54.72% vs. 23.06%; P < 0.001) and multivariate analyses (HR = 0.297; 95% CI: 0.136-0.648; P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS RFA is an inferior treatment option to LR for patients without cirrhosis who have a solitary HCC tumor ≤ 5 cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-Chen Dong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China; Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Clinical College, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China
| | - Dou-Sheng Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Fu-An Wang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Sheng-Jie Jin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Bao-Huan Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Guo-Qing Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China.
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Connor AA, Kodali S, Abdelrahim M, Javle MM, Brombosz EW, Ghobrial RM. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: The role of liver transplantation, adjunctive treatments, and prognostic biomarkers. Front Oncol 2022; 12:996710. [PMID: 36479082 PMCID: PMC9719919 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.996710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a primary epithelial cell malignancy of the liver with rising incidence rate globally. Its insidious presentation, heterogeneous and aggressive biology, and recalcitrance to current therapies results in unacceptably high morbidity and mortality. This has spurred research efforts in the last decade to better characterize it molecularly with translation to improved diagnostic tools and treatments. Much of this has been driven by patient advocacy. This has renewed interest in orthotopic liver transplantation (LT) with adjunctive therapies for iCCA, which was historically disparaged due to poor recipient outcomes and donor organ scarcity. However, the optimal use of LT as a treatment for iCCA care remains unclear. Here, we review the epidemiology of iCCA, the history of LT as a treatment modality, alternative approaches to iCCA local control, the evidence for peri-operative systemic therapies, and the potential roles of biomarkers and targeted agents. In doing so, we hope to prioritize areas for continued research and identify areas where multidisciplinary care can improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashton A. Connor
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Sudha Kodali
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maen Abdelrahim
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
- Section of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Department of Medical Oncology, Houston Methodist Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
- Cockrell Center Phase 1 Unit, Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutics, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Milind M. Javle
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - R. Mark Ghobrial
- Sherrie and Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, JC Walter Jr Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
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5
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Schoenberg MB, Bucher JN, Vater A, Bazhin AV, Hao J, Guba MO, Angele MK, Werner J, Rentsch M. Resection or Transplant in Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 114:519-526. [PMID: 28835324 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2017.0519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has an incidence of 5-10 per 100 000 persons per year in the Western world. In 20% of cases, surgical liver resection (LR) or liver transplantation (LT) can be performed. LT results in longer survival, as it involves resection not only of the tumor, but of pre - cancerous tissue as well. The optimal allocation of donor organs depends on the identification of patients for whom LR is adequate treatment. In this meta-analysis, we compare LT and LR for patients with early HCC and wellcompensated cirrhosis. METHODS A systematic review of the pertinent literature was followed by a subgroup analysis of the studies in which patients with early HCC and wellcompensated cirrhosis were followed up after either LR or LT. Overall survival at 1, 3, and 5 years, as well as morbidity and mortality, were compared in a random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS 54 studies with a total of 13 794 patients were included. Among patients with early HCC, the overall survival after LT became higher than the overall survival after LR 5 years after surgery (66.67% versus 60.35%, odds ratio 0.60 [0.45; 0.78], p <0.001); there was no significant difference 1 year or 3 years after surgery. Nor was there any significant difference in morbidity or mortality between the two types of treatment in this subgroup. These findings contrast with the results obtained in all of the studies, which documented significantly better survival 3 years after LT. CONCLUSION Three years after surgery, the survival rates and complication rates of patients with early HCC treated with either LR or LT are comparable. Resection should therefore be the preferred form of treatment if the prerequisites for it are met. In case of recurrent tumor, these patients can still be evaluated for liver transplantation. This strategy could improve the allocation of donor organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus B Schoenberg
- Markus B. Schoenberg and Julian N. Bucher shared first authorship; Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Munich, Campus Großhadern; Munich Transplant Center, University Hospital of Munich, Campus Großhadern; Liver Center Munich, University Hospital of Munich, Campus Großhadern
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6
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Lee K, Lee KB, Yi NJ, Suh KS, Jang JJ. Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation: Comparative Analysis with Partial Hepatectomy. J Pathol Transl Med 2016; 51:79-86. [PMID: 28013531 PMCID: PMC5282549 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2016.10.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Liver transplantation (LT) is the treatment of choice for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to investigate the recurrence rate of HCC after LT and prognostic factors for recurrence by comparing LT with non-transplanted resection. Methods The participants were 338 patients who underwent LT between 1996 and 2012 at Seoul National University Hospital (LT group) and 520 HCC patients who underwent partial hepatectomy between 1995 and 2006 (control group, non-LT group). Results In the LT group, 68 of 338 patients (19.8%) showed relapse, and the recurrence rate was lower than that in the non-LT group (64.9%, 357/520, p < .001). Stratification analysis by American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage showed that the stage I-II LT group had a lower recurrence rate than the non-LT group. Univariate comparative analysis demonstrated that multiplicity of tumor, tumor size, gross type, Edmondson- Steiner (ES) nuclear grade, extent of tumor, angioinvasion, AJCC stage, Milan criteria, University of California at San Francisco criteria on explant pathology (all p < .001), positive expression of cytokeratin 19 (p = .002), and preoperative α-fetoprotein (AFP) (p < .001) were predictors of tumor recurrence. In multivariate analysis, LT, preoperative AFP, multiplicity of tumor, extent of tumor, size of tumor, and ES nuclear grade were independent prognostic factors. Conclusions LT might have a protective effect against the late recurrence of stage I-II HCC compared to non-LT, and the prognostic factors for recurrence were similar to previously well-known prognostic factors for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyuho Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Bun Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Nam-Joon Yi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung-Suk Suh
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ja-June Jang
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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7
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Chung H, Chapman WC. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: how far have we come and what is the future? Hepat Oncol 2014; 1:309-321. [DOI: 10.2217/hep.14.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY: Liver transplantation is the best treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in the setting of chronic liver disease, completely removing malignancy and underlying diseased liver tissue. Technical aspects of liver transplantation have improved over the years, along with outcomes. But challenges continue in the areas of expanding existing indications for transplant with limited organ supply, calling for optimization of patient selection and the development of alternative or adjunctive treatment options. Expansion of existing transplant criteria will help identify patients most likely to have good outcomes. Locoregional and systemic treatments showing therapeutic promise are being investigated for use in achieving acceptable oncologic effect. Improvements in post-transplant treatment and continued attempts to enlarge the donor pool will continue to provide avenues for further improvements in outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haniee Chung
- Washington University in St Louis, 660 S Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - William C Chapman
- Washington University in St Louis, 660 S Euclid Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
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8
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Xu XS, Liu C, Qu K, Song YZ, Zhang P, Zhang YL. Liver transplantation versus liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2014; 13:234-41. [PMID: 24919605 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(14)60037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation (LT) and liver resection (LR) are currently considered the standard treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the outcomes of LT and LR are still inconclusive. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies. Surgical safety indices such as treatment-related morbidity and mortality, and efficacy indices such as overall and tumor-free survival outcomes were evaluated. Weighted mean differences and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random-effects model. RESULTS Seventeen studies were included in this meta-analysis. LT achieved significantly higher rates of surgery-related morbidity (OR=1.47; 95% CI: 1.02-2.13) and mortality (OR=2.12; 95% CI: 1.11-4.05). Likewise, the 1-year survival rate was lower in LT (OR=0.86; 95% CI: 0.61-1.20). However, the 3- and 5-year survival rates were significantly higher in LT than in LR and the ORs were 1.12 (95% CI: 0.96-1.30) in 3 years and 1.84 (95% CI: 1.49-2.28) in 5 years. Furthermore, the tumor-free survival rate in LT was significantly higher than that in LR in 1, 3, 5 years after surgery, with the ORs of 1.72 (95% CI: 1.24-2.41), 3.75 (95% CI: 2.94-4.78) and 5.64 (95% CI: 4.35-7.31), respectively. CONCLUSIONS One-year morbidity and mortality are higher in LT than in LR for patients with HCC. However, long-term survival and tumor-free survival rates are higher in patients treated with LT than those treated with LR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Sen Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China.
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9
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Earl TM, Chapman WC. Transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: the North American experience. Recent Results Cancer Res 2013; 190:145-64. [PMID: 22941019 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-16037-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in North America has undergone substantial change since its inception. Transplantation for large tumors led to near universal tumor recurrence and despite its theoretical benefit, complete liver replacement for primary hepatic malignancy was all but abandoned outside of clinical trials. With the publication of the Milan criteria interest was renewed and results of transplant for HCC began to mirror those for non-malignant indications. The adoption of MELD-based allocation led to a substantial increase in the number of transplants for HCC as MELD priority points were given to patients who met the restrictive criteria. As results of transplantation improved, several groups have pushed the boundaries of Milan and found similar results. To further possibility of transplantation for patients with tumors outside of criteria, locoregional therapies have been utilized to downstage these tumors. As the number of patients awaiting a deceased donor allograft continues to increase while the number of available deceased donor organs remains relatively constant, the roles of living donor transplantation, adjuvant, and neoadjuvant therapy will continue to evolve.
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10
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Zhang Q, Chen X, Zang Y, Zhang L, Chen H, Wang L, Niu Y, Ren X, Shen Z, Shang L. The survival benefit of liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma patients with hepatitis B virus infection and cirrhosis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e50919. [PMID: 23236406 PMCID: PMC3517605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0050919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A precise predictive survival model of liver transplantation (LT) with antiviral prophylaxis for hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis has not been established. The aim of our study was to identify predictors of outcome after LT in these patients based on tumor staging systems, antitumor therapy pre-LT, and antiviral prophylaxis in patients considered to be unfit by Milan or UCSF criteria. METHODS From 2002 to 2008, 917 LTs with antiviral prophylaxis were performed on patients with HBV-cirrhosis, and 313 had concurrent HCC. RESULTS Stratified univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that independent predictors for poor survival were tumor size >7.5 cm (P = 0.001), tumor number >1 (P = 0.005), vascular invasion (P = 0.001), pre-LT serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level ≥1000 ng/ml (P = 0.009), and pre-LT aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level ≥120 IU/L (P = 0.044). Pre-LT therapy for HCC was an independent predictor of better survival (P = 0.028). Based on CLIP and TNM tumor staging systems, HCC patients with HBV-cirrhosis who met the following criteria: solitary tumor ≤7.5 cm, or ≤4 multifocal nodules, the largest lesion ≤5 cm and total tumor diameter ≤10 cm, or more nodules with the largest lesion ≤3 cm, and pre-LT serum AFP level <1000 µg/L and AST level <120 IU/L without vascular invasion and lymph node metastasis who were unfit for UCSF, had survival rates of 89% at 5 years. There was a 47% 5-year survival rate for patients with HCC exceeding the revised criteria. CONCLUSIONS The current criteria for LT based on tumor size, number and levels of AFP and AST may be modestly expanded while still preserving excellent survival after LT. The expanded criteria combined with antiviral prophylaxis and pre-LT adjuvant therapy for HCC may be a rational strategy to prolong survival after LT for HCC patients with HBV-associated cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Xinguo Chen
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Yunjin Zang
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Li Zhang
- First Department of Surgery, Shaanxi Provincial Corps Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Xi'an, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Letian Wang
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Yujian Niu
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuyun Ren
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
| | - Zhongyang Shen
- Institute of Liver Transplantation, General Hospital of Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (ZS); (LS)
| | - Lei Shang
- Department of Health Statistics, Faculty of Preventive Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- * E-mail: (ZS); (LS)
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11
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Rahman A, Assifi MM, Pedroso FE, Maley WR, Sola JE, Lavu H, Winter JM, Yeo CJ, Koniaris LG. Is resection equivalent to transplantation for early cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma? A meta-analysis. J Gastrointest Surg 2012; 16:1897-909. [PMID: 22836922 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-012-1973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether liver resection or liver transplantation is optimal therapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains undefined. A meta-analysis was conducted to answer this question. STUDY DESIGN This study performed a systematic review of the published literature between January 2000 and April 2012. RESULTS Nine retrospective studies, totaling 2,279 patients (989 resected and 1,290 transplanted), met the selection criteria. Older patients with larger tumors and less severe cirrhosis were identified in the resection group. At 1 year, resection demonstrated significantly higher overall [odds ratio (OR) = 1.54; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.19-1.98; p = 0.001], but equivalent disease-free survival (OR = 0.93; 95 % CI, 0.53-1.63; p = 0.80). At 5 years, there was no difference in overall survival (OR = 0.86; 95 % CI, 0.61-1.21; p = 0.38), but a higher disease-free survival in transplanted patients was observed (OR = 0.39; 95 % CI, 0.24-0.63; p < 0.001). When limiting our analysis to studies conducted in an intent-to-treat fashion, there was no difference in 5 year overall survival (OR = 1.18; 95 % CI, 0.92-1.51; p = 0.19), but a significantly higher disease-free survival (OR = 0.76; 95 % CI, 0.57-1.00; p = 0.05) in transplanted patients. At 10 years, transplantation had higher overall and disease-free survival rates. CONCLUSION Liver transplantation in patients with HCC results in increased late disease-free and overall survival when compared with liver resection. Nonetheless, the benefit of liver transplantation is offset by higher short-term mortality, donor organ availability, and long transplant wait times associated with more patient deaths. Understanding these differences in survival is helpful in guiding treatment. However, a properly controlled prospective trial is needed to define how best to treat HCC patients who are candidates for either therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atiq Rahman
- DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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12
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Dhir M, Lyden ER, Smith LM, Are C. Comparison of outcomes of transplantation and resection in patients with early hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. HPB (Oxford) 2012; 14:635-45. [PMID: 22882201 PMCID: PMC3461390 DOI: 10.1111/j.1477-2574.2012.00500.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Surgical decision making for patients with early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and well-compensated cirrhosis remains controversial. The aim of the current study was to conduct a meta-analysis of published reports to compare survival outcomes after transplantation and resection, respectively, in patients with early HCC [i.e. HCC falling within the Milan Criteria (a solitary lesion measuring ≤5 cm or fewer than three lesions with a largest diameter of ≤3 cm, and absence of macroscopic vascular invasion or extrahepatic disease)] and well-compensated cirrhosis. METHODS A total of 990 abstracts were identified through a PubMed-based search. Ten articles comparing transplantation and resection in patients with early HCC were included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis was performed using stata 9.2 statistical software. RESULTS Outcomes were analysed for a total of 1763 patients with early HCC. The 5-year overall survival (OS) for all patients was 58% (transplantation: 63%; resection: 53%). Meta-analysis of all 10 studies revealed a survival advantage for transplantation [odds ratio (OR) 0.581, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.359-0.939; P = 0.027]. Analysis of only those reports that utilized an 'intention-to-treat' strategy failed to demonstrate a survival advantage for either treatment approach (OR 0.600, 95% CI 0.291-1.237; P = 0.166). CONCLUSIONS The current study demonstrates a favourable outcome in patients with early HCC treated by either transplantation or resection. Although transplantation was noted to have a survival advantage in some settings, resection continues to be a viable treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashaal Dhir
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Eppley Cancer CenterOmaha, NE, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Lyden
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public HealthOmaha, NE, USA
| | - Lynette M Smith
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public HealthOmaha, NE, USA
| | - Chandrakanth Are
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Eppley Cancer CenterOmaha, NE, USA,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical CenterOmaha, NE, USA
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13
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Merchant N, David CS, Cunningham SC. Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Transplantation versus Resection: The Case for Liver Resection. Int J Hepatol 2011; 2011:142085. [PMID: 21994848 PMCID: PMC3170737 DOI: 10.4061/2011/142085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/27/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The optimal surgical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma on well-compensated cirrhosis is controversial. Advocates of liver transplantation cite better long-term survival, lower risk of recurrence, and the ability of transplantation to treat both the HCC and the underlying liver cirrhosis. Transplantation, however, is not universally available to all appropriate-risk candidates because of a lack of sufficient organ donors and in addition suffers from the disadvantages of requiring a more complex pre- and postoperative management associated with risks of inaccessibility, noncompliance, and late complications. Resection, by contrast, is much more easily and widely available, avoids many of those risks, is by many accounts as effective at achieving similar long-term survival, and still allows for safe, subsequent liver transplantation in cases of recurrence. Here, arguments are made in favor of resection being easier, safer, simpler, and comparably effective in the treatment of HCC relative to transplantation, and therefore being the optimal initial treatment in cases of hepatocellular carcinoma on well-compensated cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant Merchant
- Department of Surgery, Saint Agnes Hospital, 900 Caton Avenue, Mailbox #207, Baltimore, MD 21229, USA
| | - Calvin S. David
- Department of Surgery, Saint Agnes Hospital, 900 Caton Avenue, Mailbox #207, Baltimore, MD 21229, USA
| | - Steven C. Cunningham
- Department of Surgery, Saint Agnes Hospital, 900 Caton Avenue, Mailbox #207, Baltimore, MD 21229, USA,*Steven C. Cunningham:
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14
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Koschny R, Schmidt J, Ganten TM. Beyond Milan criteria--chances and risks of expanding transplantation criteria for HCC patients with liver cirrhosis. Clin Transplant 2010; 23 Suppl 21:49-60. [PMID: 19930317 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0012.2009.01110.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is, apart from resection, one important curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in liver cirrhosis, and especially attractive because it eliminates both the tumor and the underlying liver disease. The application of restrictive inclusion criteria for OLT in HCC patients resulted in favorable long-term recurrence-free survival. These criteria, however, exclude a subgroup of patients which, despite advanced tumor size, demonstrate an acceptable outcome. As a consequence, expansion of the strict Milan criteria has been discussed. However, this will also deteriorate the average outcome of OLT in HCC patients. Considering that we run short of donor organs, more sophisticated prediction models for survival after OLT for HCC patients are needed to identify patients who benefit best from OLT. Neoadjuvant treatment that is frequently applied as a bridging technique for patients on the waiting list for OLT could provide useful information on tumor behavior to better predict the risk of post-OLT tumor recurrence. This might also allow expansion of the Milan criteria to patients with good response to downstaging methods without negatively affecting post-OLT survival. Furthermore, alternative scoring systems have been suggested to identify HCC patients that might still benefit from resection instead of OLT, and molecular tools are being explored to provide predictive information on HCC biology. This review discusses the advantages and risks of extended inclusion criteria for OLT and the currently available data on alternative prediction models and bridging methods in HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Koschny
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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15
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Cunningham SC, Tsai S, Marques HP, Mira P, Cameron A, Barroso E, Philosophe B, Pawlik TM. Management of Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Well-Compensated Cirrhosis. Ann Surg Oncol 2009; 16:1820-31. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-009-0364-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Revised: 12/19/2008] [Accepted: 12/20/2008] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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16
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Bellavance EC, Lumpkins KM, Mentha G, Marques HP, Capussotti L, Pulitano C, Majno P, Mira P, Rubbia-Brandt L, Ferrero A, Aldrighetti L, Cunningham S, Russolillo N, Philosophe B, Barroso E, Pawlik TM. Surgical management of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma: resection or transplantation? J Gastrointest Surg 2008; 12:1699-708. [PMID: 18709418 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-008-0652-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The surgical management of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with well-compensated cirrhosis is controversial. The purpose of the current study was to compare the outcome of patients with well-compensated cirrhosis and early stage hepatocellular carcinoma treated with initial hepatic resection versus transplantation. METHODS Between 1985 and 2008, 245 patients underwent hepatic resection, and 134 patients underwent liver transplantation for early stage hepatocellular carcinoma. All patients had well-compensated cirrhosis. Prognostic factors were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analyses; survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Compared with transplantation, patients undergoing resection had larger tumors and a higher incidence of microscopic vascular invasion. Transplantation was associated with better 5-year disease-free and overall survival compared with resection. Hepatitis status, presence of microscopic vascular invasion, and tumor size were predictors for recurrence, while the presence of microscopic vascular invasion and tumor size conferred an increased risk of death. The disease-free survival advantage with transplantation was more pronounced in hepatitis C patients compared with non-hepatitis and hepatitis B patients. The overall survival advantage with transplantation persisted in cases of solitary lesions < or = 3 cm, but was attenuated in patients with a MELD score < or = 8. CONCLUSION In well-compensated cirrhotic patients with early stage hepatocellular carcinoma, transplantation was associated with longer disease-free and overall survival. Patients undergoing resection did, however, have tumors with more advanced pathologic features. Patients best suited for initial resection as the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma were those with a MELD score </= 8 without evidence of hepatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Bellavance
- Department of Surgery, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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17
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Bhoori S, Schiavo M, Russo A, Mazzaferro V. First-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma: resection or transplantation? Transplant Proc 2007; 39:2271-3. [PMID: 17889160 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2007.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Bhoori
- Gastroenterology, Liver Surgery and Transplantation Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Foundation IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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18
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Ko HK, Ko GY, Yoon HK, Sung KB. Tumor response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after living donor liver transplantation. Korean J Radiol 2007; 8:320-7. [PMID: 17673843 PMCID: PMC2627154 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2007.8.4.320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the tumor response and patient survival rate following transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (r-HCC) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Materials and Methods Twenty-eight patients with r-HCC underwent one or more cycles of TACE after LDLT (mean, 2.5 cycles). After a mixture of iodized oil and anti-cancer drugs was injected via the arteries feeding the tumors, these vessels were embolized with a gelatin sponge. Tumor response was determined by follow-up CT imaging on all patients four weeks after each TACE procedure. Patient survival was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve. Results After TACE, targeted tumor reduced in size by 25% or more in 19 of the 28 study patients (67.9%). However, intrahepatic recurrence or extrahepatic metastasis occurred in 21 of the 28 patients (75.0%) during the 3-month follow-up period and in 26 of the 28 patients (92.9%) during the 6-month period following TACE. Extrahepatic metastasis was noted in 18 of the 28 patients (64.3%). The 1-, 3- and 5-year survival rates following TACE were 47.9, 6.0 and 0%, respectively, with a mean survival of nine months in all patients. There were no significant complications related to TACE. Conclusion TACE produces an effective tumor response for targeted r-HCC after LDLT. However, the survival rate of patients with r-HCC after LDLT is poor due to extrahepatic metastasis and intrahepatic recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heung Kyu Ko
- Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, University of Yonsei College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea.
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19
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Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: University Hospital Essen Experience and Metaanalysis of Prognostic Factors. J Am Coll Surg 2007; 205:661-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2007.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2007] [Accepted: 05/22/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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20
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Bozorgzadeh A, Orloff M, Abt P, Tsoulfas G, Younan D, Kashyap R, Jain A, Mantry P, Maliakkal B, Khorana A, Schwartz S. Survival outcomes in liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma, comparing impact of hepatitis C versus other etiology of cirrhosis. Liver Transpl 2007; 13:807-13. [PMID: 17539001 DOI: 10.1002/lt.21054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is on the rise worldwide as the most common primary hepatic malignancy. In the US approximately one half of all HCC is related to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The relationship between the primary disease and HCC recurrence after liver transplantation is unknown. We hypothesized that the primary hepatic disease underlying the development of cirrhosis and HCC would be associated with the risk of recurrent HCC after transplantation. A retrospective review was conducted of all primary liver transplants performed at the University of Rochester Medical Center from May 1995 through June 2004. The pathology reports from the native livers of 727 recipients were examined for the presence of HCC. There were 71 liver transplant recipients with histopathological evidence of HCC. These patients were divided in two groups on the basis of HCV status. Group 1 consisted of 37 patients that were both HCV and HCC positive, and Group 2 consisted of 34 patients that were HCC positive but HCV negative. Patient characteristics were analyzed, as well as number of tumors, tumor size, presence of vascular invasion, lobe involvement, recipient demographics, donor factors, pretransplantation HCC therapy, rejection episodes, and documented HCC recurrence and treatment. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups, with the exception of recipient age and the presence of hepatitis B coinfection. The tumor characteristics of both groups were similar in numbers of tumors, Milan criteria status, vascular invasion, incidental HCC differentiation, and largest tumor size. The HCV positive population had a far lower patient survival rate with patient survival in Group 1 at 1, 3, and 5 years being 81.1%, 57.4%, and 49.3% respectively, compared with 94.1%, 82.8%, and 76.4% in Group 2 (p = 0.049). Tumor-free survival in Group 1 at 1, 3, and 5 years was 70.3%, 43%, and 36.8% respectively, vs. 88.1%, 73%, and 60.8% in Group 2. In a subgroup analysis, tumor-free survival was further examined by stratifying the patients on the basis of Milan criteria. Group 1 patients outside of Milan criteria had a statistically lower tumor-free survival. By contrast, there was no statistical difference in tumor-free survival in Group 2 patients stratified according to Milan criteria. Cox regression analysis identified HCV and vascular invasion as significant independent predictors of tumor-free survival. Our results suggest that Milan selection criteria may be too limiting and lose their predictive power when applied to patients without HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Bozorgzadeh
- Department of Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
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21
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Difference in tumor invasiveness in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma fulfilling the Milan criteria treated by resection and transplantation: impact on long-term survival. Ann Surg 2007. [PMID: 17197965 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Some previous studies demonstrated better survival after transplantation for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with resection, but the influence of differences in tumor invasiveness between transplanted and resected patients has not been studied. This study compared the tumor characteristics of patients with HCC within the Milan criteria treated by resection or transplantation, and elucidated their impact on long-term survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS Tumor characteristics and long-term survival of 204 cirrhotic patients with resection and 43 cirrhotic patients with transplantation for HCC within the Milan criteria were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine the prognostic factors of survival in all patients with resection or transplantation. RESULTS Tumors in the transplanted group were associated with lower incidence of high-grade tumors, microscopic venous invasion, and microsatellite nodules. The overall 5-year survival was better in the transplantation group than the resection group (81% vs. 68%, P = 0.017). However, there were no significant differences in survival between the two groups when stratified according to presence or absence of venous invasion. Multivariate analysis showed that hepatitis C virus serology, tumor size, tumor number, and microscopic venous invasion, but not resection or transplantation, were of prognostic significance. CONCLUSIONS There were significant differences in tumor invasiveness in HCC treated by transplantation and resection as a result of selection bias, even in patients with the tumors fulfilling the Milan criteria. When the different tumor invasiveness was taken into account, there was no significant difference in the long-term survival after resection or transplantation.
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22
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Poon RTP, Fan ST, Lo CM, Liu CL, Wong J. Difference in tumor invasiveness in cirrhotic patients with hepatocellular carcinoma fulfilling the Milan criteria treated by resection and transplantation: impact on long-term survival. Ann Surg 2007; 245:51-8. [PMID: 17197965 PMCID: PMC1867937 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000225255.01668.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Some previous studies demonstrated better survival after transplantation for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with resection, but the influence of differences in tumor invasiveness between transplanted and resected patients has not been studied. This study compared the tumor characteristics of patients with HCC within the Milan criteria treated by resection or transplantation, and elucidated their impact on long-term survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS Tumor characteristics and long-term survival of 204 cirrhotic patients with resection and 43 cirrhotic patients with transplantation for HCC within the Milan criteria were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine the prognostic factors of survival in all patients with resection or transplantation. RESULTS Tumors in the transplanted group were associated with lower incidence of high-grade tumors, microscopic venous invasion, and microsatellite nodules. The overall 5-year survival was better in the transplantation group than the resection group (81% vs. 68%, P = 0.017). However, there were no significant differences in survival between the two groups when stratified according to presence or absence of venous invasion. Multivariate analysis showed that hepatitis C virus serology, tumor size, tumor number, and microscopic venous invasion, but not resection or transplantation, were of prognostic significance. CONCLUSIONS There were significant differences in tumor invasiveness in HCC treated by transplantation and resection as a result of selection bias, even in patients with the tumors fulfilling the Milan criteria. When the different tumor invasiveness was taken into account, there was no significant difference in the long-term survival after resection or transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie T P Poon
- Centre for the Study of Liver Disease and Department of Surgery, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
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23
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Moon DB, Lee SG, Hwang S. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: single nodule with Child-Pugh class A sized less than 3 cm. Dig Dis 2007; 25:320-8. [PMID: 17960067 DOI: 10.1159/000106912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS/AIMS Hepatic resection (HR) has been the standard therapy for patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with preserved liver function in Child A cirrhosis. However, the underlying cirrhosis is responsible for high recurrence and long-term complications of portal hypertension and liver failure. Currently, liver transplantation (LT) has proven to be a good alternative to HR. We studied to determine whether LT could be an alternative initial therapy or not in HCC patients with less than 3 cm-sized, single nodule with Child A cirrhosis. METHODS From January 1995 to December 2005, there were 100 HR and 17 LT (living donor LT 15, deceased donor LT 2) patients. Clinicopathologic characteristics were reviewed and survival rates between LT and HR groups were compared. The applicability of salvage LT at the time of recurrence was also evaluated. RESULTS There was no difference in age, sex, etiology and in-hospital mortality between the two groups. LTs were not performed for the patients with preserved liver function, that is, BCLC stage A1. Most initial recurrences after HR occurred in liver (37/39), but only one recurrence after LT occurred in lung. Overall survival differences between LT and HR were not significant. However, disease-free survival after LT and HR were significantly different (p = 0.047). Potential candidates for salvage LT were 37 patients including hepatic failure (n = 10), and its applicability on recurrence was 69.2% (27/39). CONCLUSION HR is still a good option for the selected patients because of lower cost and no requirement of donors. However, primary LT can be a treatment of choice for single, small HCC of Child A cirrhosis in the presence of portal hypertension because of excellent disease-free survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deok-Bog Moon
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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24
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Wong LL, Tanaka K, Lau L, Komura S. Pre-transplant treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: assessment of tumor necrosis in explanted livers. Clin Transplant 2004; 18:227-34. [PMID: 15142041 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0012.2004.00164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although liver transplantation (LT) is likely the most effective therapy for localized hepatocellular cancer (HCC), limited donor livers have resulted in prolonged waiting times for transplant. Pre-transplant therapy such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be needed to sustain patients who are waiting. Records, imaging studies, and pathology to identify tumor necrosis on 15 explanted livers with HCC were reviewed. Forty-nine nodules were removed from 15 explanted livers. Five nodules in three livers that received no pre-transplant therapy were excluded from the study. Of the remaining 44 nodules in 12 patients, 29 (66%) had 75% or more tumor necrosis. Fifteen nodules in five patients had <75% necrosis and these were due to local/non-local recurrences or perhaps suboptimal treatment with RFA, TACE or cisplatin gel injection. Mean waiting time for LT was 162.5 d. Nine of 13 patients had a different number of nodules when listed as were seen at explant, although stage changed in only three patients. One patient died 48 months post-LT (recurrent HCC), while the remaining patients are alive 2-55 months post-LT. We conclude that pre-transplant treatments for HCC are generally effective in achieving tumor necrosis. Factors involved in eventual extent of HCC seen at LT may include adequacy of treatment, accuracy of imaging techniques, local/non-local recurrences, and time waiting for transplant. We now need to determine if tumor necrosis can allow patients to wait longer for transplant and eventually affect long-term outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda L Wong
- Transplant Institute and Department of Surgery, St Francis Medical Center, Honolulu, HI, USA.
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25
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma, a common malignancy globally, has been increasing in incidence in the United States, mostly due to the rising incidence of Hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection. The prognosis of patients with this cancer has been poor and even tumor resection has rarely been curative. However, orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been associated with long-term survival benefit and cures, provided rigorous patient-selection criteria were adhered to. Liver cirrhosis is the most common precursor for HCC, and attempts have been made to prevent the progression from liver cirrhosis to HCC. Post resection adjuvant therapies have included interferon, polyprenoic acid, and adoptive immunotherapy. Finding effective systemic treatments for non-resectable HCC has been challenging and quite frustrating. The presence of liver cirrhosis and the associated volume expansion, electrolyte imbalances, decreased liver synthetic and metabolic reserve, and portal hypertension has made the design of systemic therapy for HCC a major challenge. Additionally staging of HCC using the Tumor Node Metastases (TNM) system, but ignoring the underlying liver disease made it extremely difficult to compare results of different trials. However by and large it would seem, that the more aggressive chemotherapy agents and combinations were associated with median survival times of 3-5 months. Considering the vascular nature of HCC it may be reasonable to combine tolerable chemotherapy with newly released agents with angiogenesis inhibiting properties. Thus, systemic therapy of HCC is a work in progress that calls for additional trials of tolerable newer agents and combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Cusnir
- University of Maryland, Greenebaum Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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26
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Marsh JW, Geller DA, Finkelstein SD, Donaldson JB, Dvorchik I. Role of liver transplantation for hepatobiliary malignant disorders. Lancet Oncol 2004; 5:480-8. [PMID: 15288237 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(04)01527-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The role of liver transplantation for hepatobiliary malignant disorders remains controversial and will remain so until several crucial issues are resolved, the main difficulty being the shortage of organ donors. Furthermore, a consensus needs to be reached within the transplantation community on the tumour stage at which each disorder is too advanced to be salvaged by liver transplantation. Despite these limitations, there are generally accepted criteria that define when transplantation can, and should, be offered for hepatobiliary malignant disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Wallis Marsh
- Thomas E Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA 15213, USA.
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27
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Wong LL, Tsai N, Limm W, Wong L. Liver transplant for hepatocellular cancer: a treatment for the select few. Clin Transplant 2004; 18:205-10. [PMID: 15016137 DOI: 10.1046/j.1399-0012.2003.00157.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) is increasing in incidence and liver transplant (LT) is likely the best treatment for long-term survival and decreased recurrence in those with localized disease. Optimal treatment for HCC is limited by advanced stage at presentation and available donors. We retrospectively reviewed 232 cases of HCC from 1993 to 2002 referred to our medical center, which also has the only transplant program in the state. Demographic data, risk factors, stage, previous treatment, candidacy for LT, and outcome were noted. Stage distribution was as follows: stage I - nine patients, II - 115 patients, III - 31 patients, and IV - 76 patients. Mean age was 61.1 yr and 62 patients were over the age of 70 yr. Thirty-five patients (15.1%) were offered LT evaluation. Nineteen patients (8.2%) eventually underwent LT, five are currently on a transplant waiting list, three were on a list but removed due to death or progression of disease, six were evaluated but not listed, and two refused evaluation. Five patients were transplanted because implementation of the Model of End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) system for organ allocation. Of 19 patients who underwent LT, 14 are still alive 3-52 months post-transplant, three developed recurrent HCC, and two died of lung cancer. Although LT may be the best treatment for HCC, a relatively small number of patients (15%) will qualify for this therapy. About half of those who qualify will actually undergo LT. This further emphasizes the need for other strategies such as vaccination, chemoprevention, and early detection to improve survival from HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda L Wong
- Department of Surgery, Transplant Center, Honolulu, HI, USA.
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28
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Jaeck D, Bachellier P, Oussoultzoglou E, Weber JC, Wolf P. Surgical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma. Post-operative outcome and long-term results in Europe: an overview. Liver Transpl 2004; 10:S58-63. [PMID: 14762841 DOI: 10.1002/lt.20041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A multicenter retrospective review of 1467 patients treated by liver resection (LR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Europe over a 13-year period showed a mean mortality rate of 10.6%, which was correlated with the extent of LR, the etiology of cirrhosis and the study period with an improvement during the last years. Improved 5-year overall survival (20-51%) and disease-free survival (20-33%) reached similar rates in cirrhotic than in non-cirrhotic patients. Overall results were similar to those reported in Asian series as far as patients and tumor characteristics were comparable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jaeck
- Centre de Chirurgie Viscérale et de Transplantation, Hôpital Universitaire de Hautepierre, Avenue Molière, Strasbourg Cedex, France.
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29
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Gondolesi GE, Roayaie S, Muñoz L, Kim-Schluger L, Schiano T, Fishbein TM, Emre S, Miller CM, Schwartz ME. Adult living donor liver transplantation for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: extending UNOS priority criteria. Ann Surg 2004; 239:142-9. [PMID: 14745320 PMCID: PMC1356205 DOI: 10.1097/01.sla.0000109022.32391.eb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION For patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in particular, living donor liver transplant (LDLT) improves access to transplant. We report our results in 36 patients with HCC who underwent LDLT with a median follow-up >1 year. METHODS Underlying diagnoses included: hepatitis C (24), hepatitis B (9), cryptogenic cirrhosis (1), hemochromatosis (1), and primary biliary cirrhosis (1). Patients with tumors >or= 5 cm received IV doxorubicin intraoperatively and 6 cycles of doxorubicin at 3-week intervals. Patients were followed with CT scan and alpha-fetoprotein levels every 3 months for 2 years posttransplant. Mean waiting time, pretransplant treatment, tumor variables, and survival were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analysis were done to analyze tumor variables; Kaplan-Meier and log rank were used to compare survivals. P < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Mean wait for LDLT was 62 days, compared with 459 days in 50 patients with HCC transplanted with cadaveric organs during the same time period (P = 0.0001). At median follow-up of 450 days, there have been 10 deaths due to non-tumor-related causes and 3 deaths from recurrence; recurrence has also been observed in 3 other patients. On univariate and multivariate analysis, bilobar distribution was the only significant tumor variable (P = 0.03, log rank = 0.02). Fifty-three percent of patients exceeded UNOS priority criteria. One- and two-year patient survivals were 75% and 60%, respectively. Freedom from recurrence at 365 and 730 days was 82% and 74%, respectively. Overall and in patients with HCC > 5 cm (n = 12), there were no statistically significant differences in survival or in freedom from recurrence between recipients of living donor and cadaveric grafts. CONCLUSION Although one third of patients had tumors > 5 cm, the incidence of recurrence as well as patient survival and freedom from recurrence are comparable to results after cadaveric transplant. LDLT allows timely transplantation in patients with early or with large HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel E Gondolesi
- Recanati/Miller Transplantation Institutes, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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30
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Abstract
1. Recurrence of hepatitis C infection is universal and immediate after liver transplantation. 2. Graft and patient survival is reduced in liver transplantation recipients with recurrent hepatitis C virus infection compared with hepatitis C virus-negative recipients. 3. The natural history of chronic hepatitis C is accelerated after liver transplantation compared with nontransplantation chronic hepatitis C; 20% to 40% of patients progress to allograft cirrhosis within 5 years, compared with less than 5% of nontransplantation patients. 4. The rate of fibrosis progression is not uniform and may change over time. 5. The rate of progression from cirrhosis to decompensation is accelerated after liver transplantation. The rate of decompensation is >40% at 1 year and >60% at 3 years, compared with <5% and <10%, respectively, in immunocompetent patients. 6. The rate of progression from decompensation to death is also accelerated after liver transplantation. The 3-year survival is <10% after the onset of hepatitis C virus-related allograft failure, compared with 60% after decompensation in immunocompetent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Gane
- New Zealand Liver Transplant Unit, Auckland Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
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31
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Donckier V, Van Laethem JL, Van Gansbeke D, Ickx B, Lingier P, Closset J, El Nakadi I, Feron P, Boon N, Bourgeois N, Adler M, Gelin M. New considerations for an overall approach to treat hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients. J Surg Oncol 2003; 84:36-44; discussion 44. [PMID: 12949989 DOI: 10.1002/jso.10281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing numbers of cases and organ shortage justify reconsidering the global therapeutic approach for hepatocelluar carcinoma in cirrhotic patients. METHODS Recent literature was reviewed, focused on new therapeutic technologies such as radiofrequency. RESULTS For small tumors, liver transplantation offers theoretically the best chance for cure. However, organ shortage may eliminate this advantage, because of tumor progression while waiting for a graft. For small tumors, arising on compensated cirrhosis, resection or radiofrequency ablation may provide efficient local tumor control without precluding subsequent transplantation in case of tumor recurrence and/or cirrhosis decompensation. CONCLUSIONS For small tumors and compensated cirrhosis, resection or radiofrequency could represent acceptable first line treatments. In addition to permit safe and immediate tumor control, this strategy would allow a preferential redistribution of grafts to patients with decompensated cirrhosis in whom transplantation is the only possibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Donckier
- Medicosurgical Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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32
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Fernández JA, Robles R, Marin C, Sánchez-Bueno F, Ramirez P, Pons JA, Garre MC, Pérez D, Parrilla A, Navalón JC, Parrilla P. Can we expand the indications for liver transplantation among hepatocellular carcinoma patients with increased tumor size? Transplant Proc 2003; 35:1818-20. [PMID: 12962807 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-1345(03)00723-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Due to the scarcity of donors and the fact that size is the main prognostic factor, Milan criteria have been used since 1996 to select hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients for liver transplantation. In 2001 UCSF criteria showed that including layer tumors did not reduce the survival results. The objective of this paper was to evaluate whether HCC tumor sizes exceeding the Milan criteria adversely influence survival rates. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between May 1988 and July 2001, 53 patients were transplanted due to HCC and cirrhosis. The etiology of cirrhosis was HCV in 23 cases and HBV in 6. In 11 cases the HCC were incidental by discovered namely, a mean/ diameter of 1.8 cm (versus 2.6 cm in nonincidental HCC). Sixty-two percent of tumors met the Milan criteria, and 68% the USCF criteria. RESULTS The actuarial survival was 79% at 1 year and 62% at 5 years. The survival of patients with incidental HCC was 82% at 1 year and 82% at 5 years, which is better than the survival of those with nonincidental HCC (78% at 1 year and 57% at 5 years, P<.05). According to Milan criteria, the survival patients with early tumors was 82% at 1 year and 68% at 5 years, and for advanced tumors (NS), 75% and 54%, respectively. Comparison of early versus advanced tumors according to UCSF criteria showed survivals of 84% versus 64% at 1 year (P<.05) and 67% versus 48% at 5 years (P<.05), respectively. CONCLUSION Increasing the HCC size among LT according to the California criteria did not reduce survival rates compared with the Milan criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Fernández
- Department of Surgery, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, El Palmar S/N (Murcia), Spain.
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33
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Mela M, Mancuso A, Burroughs AK. Review article: hepatocellular carcinoma: indications for liver transplantation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2003; 17 Suppl 2:130-7. [PMID: 12786624 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.17.s2.16.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The role of liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma has evolved over the years and currently is one of the curative therapies for small tumours. The survival rates are similar with those for nonmalignant liver disease after transplantation. The treatment of small tumours eligible for both resection and transplantation depends on the experience of the transplant centre and the waiting time for a liver graft. With waiting times for liver transplant becoming gradually longer, prioritization of the tumour patients has been suggested. Adjuvant therapies may delay the tumour progression while patients wait for a transplant. The living donor and the domino liver transplantation are useful alternatives given the shortage of organs but the experience is still limited in the Western world and the selection for the domino livers is fairly restricted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mela
- Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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34
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a very prevalent malignancy worldwide, with increasing incidence in the United States. Despite many available treatment options, the prognosis remains poor. Surgical resection or liver transplantation still represents the only potentially curative treatments for HCC. Until more effective systemic therapies are available, different localized treatment approaches will continue to be applied in the management of this disease. Although systemic chemotherapy has been disappointing, increased understanding of the tumor biology in HCC coupled with new drug development may lead to newer agents with novel mechanisms of action that are more efficacious. The poor treatment outcome and dismal prognosis make prevention of HCC an important strategy in controlling this aggressive type of malignancy. Vaccine programs for HBV are ongoing. Efforts are underway to develop a vaccine for HCV. Interferon therapy appears to decrease the risk of developing HCC in patients with hepatitis, especially those with HCV. A number of other approaches for decreasing risk in these patients as well as in those with alcoholic-related cirrhosis are currently being evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew X Zhu
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana-Farber/Partners Cancer Care, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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35
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Bigourdan JM, Jaeck D, Meyer N, Meyer C, Oussoultzoglou E, Bachellier P, Weber JC, Audet M, Doffoël M, Wolf P. Small hepatocellular carcinoma in Child A cirrhotic patients: hepatic resection versus transplantation. Liver Transpl 2003; 9:513-20. [PMID: 12740796 DOI: 10.1053/jlts.2003.50070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic resection (HR) is the treatment of choice for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a noncirrhotic liver, whereas liver transplantation (LT) offers better results in patients with impaired hepatic function (Child B and C). However, it is still debated whether HR or LT is the best strategy for patients with Child A cirrhosis. We conducted a retrospective study on 37 consecutive patients with Child A cirrhosis and small HCC, treated between 1991 and 1999. Seventeen of these patients, who underwent LT, were compared with 20 patients who underwent HR, and prognostic factors for survival and tumor recurrence were analyzed. The primary endpoints were the intention-to-treat, 3- and 5-year survival, and 3- and 5-year recurrence-free survival. Three- and 5-year patient survival rate both were significantly (P =.04) higher in the LT group (87% and 71%, respectively) than in the HR group (67 and 36% respectively). Similarly, the 3- and 5- year recurrence-free survival rates were 87% and 80% for the LT group, and 52% and 40% for the HR group (P =.03). Absence of microscopic vascular invasion was the only other prognostic factor correlated with significantly better recurrence-free survival (P =.02). Therefore, we concluded that in patients with Child A cirrhosis and small HCC, liver transplantation resulted in better overall and disease-free survival than HR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marc Bigourdan
- Centre de Chirurgie Viscérale et de Transplantation (Hôpital de Hautepierre), Strasbourg, France
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36
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Chui AKK, Rao ARN, Wong J, Ng SSM, Chan HLY, Chan FKL, Mi R, Lau WY. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients-a single-center experience. Transplant Proc 2003; 35:379-80. [PMID: 12591449 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-1345(02)03821-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A K K Chui
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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37
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Abstract
Today there is an array of therapeutic modalities available for the patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, surgery, be it resection or transplantation, offers the only hope of long-term disease-free survival. Unfortunately, because the majority of HCC in Asia is associated with cirrhosis, surgical resection is restricted to only a small proportion of these patients. However, in selected candidates resection may offer a 5-year survival of up to 70%. With the clinical application of adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation, an increasing number of patients with small HCC and decompensating cirrhosis are undergoing transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Tan
- The liver centre, Singapore.
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38
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Abstract
Liver transplantation is an established treatment modality for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), creating a potential for disease-free, long-term survival. In Asia, due to a severe shortage of donors, resection remains the treatment of choice for patients with HCC and good liver functional reserve. The use of marginal donors, split liver grafts and grafts from living donors are potential solutions that are best performed in experienced liver transplant centres to ensure an optimal outcome. Ethical issues relating to living donor liver transplantation have yet to be fully addressed. The roles of therapies to limit tumour progression during the waiting period, such as transarterial chemoembolization, need to be further investigated in the setting of a prospective trial and their benefits better defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth S W Mak
- Liver Transplant Unit, National University Hospital, Singapore.
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39
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Molmenti EP, Klintmalm GB. Liver transplantation in association with hepatocellular carcinoma: an update of the International Tumor Registry. Liver Transpl 2002; 8:736-48. [PMID: 12200772 DOI: 10.1053/jlts.2002.34879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is an epithelial tumor derived from hepatocytes that accounts for more than 80% of all primary hepatic tumors. The severity of the underlying disease is almost always the key factor in deciding whether to consider liver resection or transplantation as its treatment. Data in our registry corresponding to almost 800 patients from transplant centers throughout the world showed that patient survival after liver transplantation was significantly affected by histologic grade, tumor size >5 cm, and the presence of positive nodes. Recurrence-free survival showed a correlation with tumor size >5 cm, positive nodes, bilobar spread, and vascular invasion. At the present time, 59% of patients in our registry are alive, 84% of whom are free of tumor. Of those who died, half did so without evidence of tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto P Molmenti
- Baylor University Medical Center, Transplantation Services, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
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40
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Figueras J, Ramos E, Ibáñez L, Valls C, Serrano T, Rafecas A, Casanovas T, Fabregat J, Xiol X, Torras J, Baliellas C, Jaurrieta E, Casais L. [Surgical treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Long term results]. Med Clin (Barc) 2002; 118:410-4. [PMID: 11943103 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-7753(02)72404-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surgical treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma remains controversial due to a lack of prospective randomized studies. MATERIAL AND METHOD Between January 1990 and December 2000, 121 liver transplantations (group 1) and 52 hepatectomies (group 2) were performed for hepatocellular carcinoma. Each surgical treatment was carried out depending on patients' and tumor's characteristics. RESULTS Patients from group 1 had a more advanced tumoral grade, with higher involvement of two lobes (19 vs 4%; p = 0.015) and higher number of nodules (1.9 DE [2] vs 1.2 [0.6]; p = 0.001); yet the mean tumor size was lower (3 cm [1.5] vs 4.2 [3.2]; p = 0.006). Operative mortality (4% vs 2%; p = 0.66) and 5- and 10-years survival (68% and 42% vs 63% and 45%; p = 0.23) were similar between both groups. Nevertheless, 5- and 10-years recurrence rates (10.6% and 10.6% vs 50% and 65.5%; p < 0.0001) were more favourable in group 1. Prognostic factors of recurrence included microscopic vascular invasion (RR = 12.12; CI, 2.02-75.52) and alpha-fetoprotein levels higher than 300 ng/mL (RR = 7.12; 95% CI, 1.08-47.02) in group 1, and the pT3-4 stage (RR = 3.86; 95% CI, 1.06-14.03) in group 2. Mean time on waiting lists for liver transplantation was 3.06 (2.66) months and it has increased significantly in last years, especially among blood group 0 patients. However, this fact has not been associated with a worsening of survival rates (p = 0.98). CONCLUSIONS After a good patient selection, either liver transplantation or hepatectomy achieve excellent long term survival rates in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, though the former allows a better control of the tumoral disease. The increase of mean time on waiting lists for liver transplantation during the last years has not led to a worsening of survival results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Figueras
- Servicio de Cirugía General, Ciudad Sanitaria y Universitaria de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.
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41
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Prince MI, Hudson M. Liver transplantation for chronic liver disease: advances and controversies in an era of organ shortages. Postgrad Med J 2002; 78:135-41. [PMID: 11884694 PMCID: PMC1742293 DOI: 10.1136/pmj.78.917.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since liver transplantation was first performed in 1968 by Starzl et al, advances in case selection, liver surgery, anaesthetics, and immunotherapy have significantly increased the indications for and success of this operation. Liver transplantation is now a standard therapy for many end stage liver disorders as well as acute liver failure. However, while demand for cadaveric organ grafts has increased, in recent years the supply of organs has fallen. This review addresses current controversies resulting from this mismatch. In particular, methods for increasing graft availability and difficulties arising from transplantation in the context of alcohol related cirrhosis, primary liver tumours, and hepatitis C are reviewed. Together these three indications accounted for 42% of liver transplants performed for chronic liver disease in the UK in 2000. Ethical frameworks for making decisions on patients' suitability for liver transplantation have been developed in both the USA and the UK and these are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Prince
- Freeman Hospital Liver Unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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42
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Abstract
The incidence of hepatocellular cancer is increasing in the United States and is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Traditionally, the gold standard treatment for hepatocellular cancer has been surgical resection, but most patients were not suitable candidates due to advanced disease. Other treatments include locally ablative techniques (cryosurgery, radiofrequency ablation and various injection therapies), chemotherapeutic options and rarely, radiation therapies. In the 1980s, liver transplant emerged as the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease and also became an option for patients with hepatocellular cancer. When comparing liver transplant with resection in retrospective studies, liver transplant patients had better survival and reduced recurrence. However, not all patients with hepatocellular cancer will be candidates for liver transplant. Size, stage, and histological grade of tumor all affect prognosis after transplant. Use of chemotherapeutic treatments and locally ablative techniques may be beneficial prior to liver transplant, but larger controlled studies are needed. Liver transplant is the most effective treatment for hepatocellular cancer in the subgroup of smaller tumors, but ultimately we are limited by the number of available donors. Future goals in this area include increasing the donor pool and determining optimal management to allow patients to wait for an appropriate donor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda L Wong
- Transplant Institute, Department of Surgery, St. Francis Medical Center, 2226 Liliha St., Suite 402, Honolulu, Hawaii 96817, USA.
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43
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Vitellas KM, Kangarlu A, Bova JG, Bennett WF, Vaswani K, Chakeres DW, Spigos D. Canine abdominal MRI at 8 Tesla: initial experience with conventional gradient-recalled echo and rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement (RARE) techniques. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2001; 25:856-63. [PMID: 11711795 DOI: 10.1097/00004728-200111000-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this manuscript, we present our initial experience with MRI of the abdomen at 8 T of canine subjects both alive and dead. Our hypothesis is that abdominal imaging at 8 T should be possible and should demonstrate unique information. To our knowledge, this is the first description of imaging characteristics of the abdomen at such field strengths using a human MR scanner. METHOD An 8 T, 80 cm magnet housed in our department since 1998 was used for our study. GRE and rapid acquisition by relaxation enhancement (RARE) pulse sequences were selected to give reasonable slice profiles with relatively low power. Three dogs were imaged alive and after being killed. RESULTS Our initial results show excellent signal-to-noise ratio and good RF penetration. Structures in the center of the abdomen were well visualized. Homogeneous signal was noted throughout each image without dielectric resonance artifact. Magnetic susceptibility artifacts were most severe on the GRE sequences. On the GRE sequences, the images appeared relatively T2 weighted. Signal voids were seen due to gas in the lung and bowel and susceptibility artifact at subcutaneous fat-muscle boundaries. The liver and spleen showed similar signal intensity, hypointense to subcutaneous muscle at low TE values. There was little internal anatomy of the liver or spleen visible except for the vessels. The kidney, in contrast, demonstrated very good internal structure with visualization of the cortex and medulla. Linear signal voids were depicted in the expected location of normal renal vascular anatomy on the GRE sequences. On the RARE sequences, the images also appeared T2 weighted. Magnetic susceptibility artifacts at subcutaneous fat-muscle boundaries were absent. Signal voids were noted in vessels with blood flow and gas. The liver and spleen were of similar signal intensity and slightly hypointense to muscle. The kidney and pancreas were of higher signal intensity than liver and subcutaneous muscle. The gallbladder wall demonstrated a striated pattern of two layers, with an inner hypointense and an outer hyperintense layer on the RARE sequence. The gastric wall demonstrated a striated pattern of five layers on the RARE sequence. CONCLUSION Images of the dog abdomen with the world's first ultra high field 8 T magnet show robust image quality and excellent spatial resolution. Image contrast is greatest on the RARE sequence, and susceptibility artifact is strongest on the GRE sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Vitellas
- Department of Radiology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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44
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Abstract
In the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, the range of indications for percutaneous ablation techniques is becoming wider than surgery and intra-arterial therapies. Indeed, whereas for some years only patients with up to three small lesions were treated, with the introduction of the single-session technique under general anesthesia, even patients with more advanced disease are now being treated. Although it is understood that partial resection assures the highest local control, the survival rates after surgery are roughly comparable with percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI). The explanation is due to a balance among advantages and disadvantages of the two therapies. PEI survival curves are better than curves of resected patients who present adverse prognostic factors, and this means that surgery needs a better selection of the patients. Indications for both therapies are reported. Single-session radiofrequency (RF) ablation seems to offer better results in terms of local control and safety than transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) in multifocal tumours. An open question remains the choice between PEI and other new ablation procedures. In our department, we use RF, PEI and segmental TACE, according to the features of the disease. In the treatment of colorectal liver metastases, the initial survival curves of thermal ablation techniques are promising. However, they are size and site dependent, so partial resection remains the gold standard. An interesting indication seems to be the treatment of breast liver metastases in selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Livraghi
- Department of Radiology, Ospedale Civile di Vimercate, Via Cesare Battisti 23, I-20059 Vimercate/, Milan, Italy.
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45
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Abstract
Many improvements have been made in the treatment of primary liver tumors, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma. Partial hepatectomy still remains the mainstay of therapy for resectable tumors, and it offers the potential of a cure. Total hepatectomy and liver transplantation may be applicable in selected patients. Palliative resection and tumor debulking operations are beneficial for some malignant tumors. Local ablative therapy can be tried on patients with small tumors who are not suitable candidates for open resectional surgery because of serious associated medical diseases or because of poor liver function. For patients with advanced malignancy, new treatment modalities in the form of hepatic artery transcatheter treatment or systemic therapy are on the horizon. Some of these treatment options show very promising results. Properly conducted randomized studies are required to evaluate these new treatment modalities, as well as those older treatment modalities for which there is insufficient data to determine their actual role in the management of patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Y Lau
- Department of Surgery, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories.
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46
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Regalia E, Coppa J, Pulvirenti A, Romito R, Schiavo M, Burgoa L, Mazzaferro V. Liver transplantation for small hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhosis: analysis of our experience. Transplant Proc 2001; 33:1442-4. [PMID: 11267365 DOI: 10.1016/s0041-1345(00)02546-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Regalia
- Department of Surgery-Liver Transplantation Unit, National Cancer Institute, (Istituto Nazionale Tumori), Milan, Italy
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47
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Roayaie S, Haim MB, Emre S, Fishbein TM, Sheiner PA, Miller CM, Schwartz ME. Comparison of surgical outcomes for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis B versus hepatitis C: a western experience. Ann Surg Oncol 2000; 7:764-70. [PMID: 11129425 DOI: 10.1007/s10434-000-0764-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We reviewed our experience in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and chronic hepatitis to determine if differences exist in preoperative status and postoperative survival between those with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. METHODS We reviewed the records of 240 consecutive patients with HCC who underwent hepatic resection or liver transplantation at Mount Sinai Hospital between February 1990 and February 1998. Patients who tested negative for hepatitis B antigen and hepatitis C antibody (74 patients) as well as those who tested positive for both (2 patients) were excluded. Age as well as preoperative platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), albumin, and total bilirubin were measured in all patients. The presence of encephalopathy or ascites also was noted. Explanted livers and resection specimens were examined for size, number, and differentiation of tumors as well as the presence of vascular invasion and cirrhosis in the surrounding parenchyma. RESULTS One hundred twenty-one patients with HCC tested positive for HCV, and 43 tested positive for HBV. A significantly higher proportion of patients with HCV required transplant for the treatment of their HCC when compared to those with HBV. In the resection group, patients with HCV were significantly older that those with HBV. They also had significantly lower mean preoperative platelet counts and albumin levels and higher mean PT and total bilirubin levels. Resected patients with HCV had significantly less-differentiated tumors and a higher incidence of vascular invasion and cirrhosis when compared to those with HBV. There was no statistical difference in the multicentricity and size of tumors between the two groups. The 5-year disease-free survival was significantly higher for HBV patients treated with resection when compared to those with HCV (49% vs. 7%, P = .0480). Patients with HCC and HCV had significantly longer 5-year disease-free survival with transplant when compared to resection (48% vs. 7%, P = .0001). Transplanted patients with HBV and HCC had preoperative status, pathological findings, and survival similar to those of patients with HCV. CONCLUSIONS Based on preoperative liver function and tumor location, a much higher proportion of HCC patients with HBV were candidates for resection. Significant differences in preoperative status, tumor characteristics and disease-free survival exist between HCC patients with chronic HBV and HCV infection who have not yet reached end-stage liver disease. Serious consideration should be given to transplanting resectable HCC with concomitant HCV, especially in cases with small tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Roayaie
- The Recanati-Miller Transplantation Institute, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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48
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Abstract
1. Curative treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) depends on early diagnosis. 2. The cure rate for operable HCC occurring in the absence of cirrhosis is only 10% to 25%. 3. Features of HCC in patients with cirrhosis that are associated with a 5-year survival rate of 75% after liver transplantation include (1) solitary tumor less than 5 cm; (2) 3 or fewer tumors, each less than 3 cm; and (3) absence of vascular invasion. 4. Advanced cirrhosis limits the widespread application of partial hepatectomy to patients with HCC. 5. Neoadjuvant therapy has not yet been proven to improve patient outcome for early-stage HCC that is promptly treated by transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Wall
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University of Western Ontario, London Health Sciences Centre-University Campus, London, Ontario, Canada.
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49
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Hoshida Y, Shiratori Y, Omata M. Difficulties in conducting controlled trials in radical therapies for nonadvanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2000; 32:877-80. [PMID: 11041691 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2000.17918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
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50
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