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Poudel S, Gupta S, Saigal S. Basics and Art of Immunosuppression in Liver Transplantation. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2024; 14:101345. [PMID: 38450290 PMCID: PMC10912712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2024.101345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation is one of the most challenging areas in the medical field. Despite that, it has already been established as a standard treatment option, especially in decompensated cirrhosis and selected cases of hepatocellular carcinoma and acute liver failure. Complications due to graft rejection, including mortality and morbidity, have greatly improved over time due to better immunosuppressive agents and management protocols. Currently, immunosuppression in liver transplant patients makes use of the best possible combinations of effective agents to achieve optimal immunosuppression for long-term graft survival. Induction agents are no longer used routinely, and the aim is to provide minimal immunosuppression in the maintenance phase. Currently available immunosuppressive agents are mainly classified as biological and pharmacological agents. Though the protocols may vary among the centers and over time, the basics of effective use usually remain similar. Most protocols use the combination of multiple agents with different mechanisms of action to reduce the dose and minimize the side effects. Along with the improvement in operative and perioperative techniques, this art of immunosuppression has contributed to the recent progress made in the outcomes of liver transplants. In this review, we will discuss the various types of immunosuppressive agents currently in use, the different protocols of immunosuppression used, and the art of optimal use for achieving maximum immunosuppression without increasing toxicity. We will also discuss the practical aspects of various immunosuppression regimens, including drug monitoring, and briefly discuss the concepts of immunosuppression minimization and withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shekhar Poudel
- Fellow Transplant Hepatology, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Subhash Gupta
- Liver Transplant and Gastrointestinal Surgery, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjiv Saigal
- Principal Director and Head, Transplant Hepatology, Centre for Liver and Biliary Sciences, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, India
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Todeschini L, Cristin L, Martinino A, Mattia A, Agnes S, Giovinazzo F. The Role of mTOR Inhibitors after Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:5574-5592. [PMID: 37366904 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30060421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation is a treatment option for nonresectable patients with early-stage HCC, with more significant advantages when Milan criteria are fulfilled. An immunosuppressive regimen is required to reduce the risk of graft rejection after transplantation, and CNIs represent the drugs of choice in this setting. However, their inhibitory effect on T-cell activity accounts for a higher risk of tumour regrowth. mTOR inhibitors (mTORi) have been introduced as an alternative immunosuppressive approach to conventional CNI-based regimens to address both immunosuppression and cancer control. The PI3K-AKT-mTOR signalling pathway regulates protein translation, cell growth, and metabolism, and the pathway is frequently deregulated in human tumours. Several studies have suggested the role of mTORi in reducing HCC progression after LT, accounting for a lower recurrence rate. Furthermore, mTOR immunosuppression controls the renal damage associated with CNI exposure. Conversion to mTOR inhibitors is associated with stabilizing and recovering renal dysfunction, suggesting an essential renoprotective effect. Limitations in this therapeutic approach are related to their negative impact on lipid and glucose metabolism as well as on proteinuria development and wound healing. This review aims to summarize the roles of mTORi in managing patients with HCC undergoing LT. Strategies to overcome common adverse effects are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letizia Todeschini
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Cristin
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | | | - Amelia Mattia
- General Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Agnes
- General Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Giovinazzo
- General Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
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3
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Akbulut S, Tamer M, Saritas S, Unal O, Akyuz M, Unsal S, Kucukakcali Z, Karabulut E, Usta S, Yilmaz S. Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence in Patients With Hepatocellular Cancer Who Have Undergo Liver Transplantation: A Case Control Study. Transplant Proc 2023:S0041-1345(23)00164-1. [PMID: 37080874 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2023.02.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to compare the adherence to immunosuppressive medication use in patients who underwent liver transplantation (LT) due to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and non-HCC reasons. METHODS The study population was determined as 242 patients with HCC and 1290 patients with non-HCC who had LT performed in our institute between March 2002 and November 2021; all these patients were contacted by phone in March 2022. The sample size was calculated using the MedCalc software program, and the number of patients required in each group was determined as 111 patients. Furthermore, we used the sample.int function, a random integer generator in the R (version 4.1.2) software program. Whereas demographic and clinical parameters were determined as independent variables, the immunosuppressive medication adherence scale (IMAS) score was determined as a dependent variable. Patients were evaluated by the IMAS. This 11-item IMAS scale evaluates the lowest compliance score as 11 and the highest as 55. RESULTS Out of a total number of 221 patients, 161 (72%) were men and 60 (27.1%) were women, with a median age of 58 years (IQR: 14); one patient in the non-HCC group was excluded due to lack of data. Among the HCC and non-HCC groups, significant differences were found in terms of the variables of age (P = .003), IMAS score (P < .001), sex (P = .001), working status (P = .004), chronic diseases (P = .008), tacrolimus alone (P < .001), tacrolimus plus everolimus (P < .001), and often medication changes (P < .001). A statistically significant correlation was found between the IMAS score and whether the patients had HCC (P < .001) and frequently changing immunosuppressive drugs (P = .023). CONCLUSION This study showed that patients with frequent drug changes or non-HCC etiology had better adherence to immunosuppressive drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Akbulut
- Department of Surgery and Liver Transplant Institute, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey; Department of Public Health, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey; Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey.
| | - Murat Tamer
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Inonu University Faculty of Nursing, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Serdar Saritas
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Inonu University Faculty of Nursing, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Unal
- Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Inonu University Faculty of Nursing, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Musap Akyuz
- Department of Surgical Nursing, Inonu University Faculty of Nursing, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Selver Unsal
- Department of Nursing Service, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Kucukakcali
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ertugrul Karabulut
- Department of Surgery and Liver Transplant Institute, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Sertac Usta
- Department of Surgery and Liver Transplant Institute, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Sezai Yilmaz
- Department of Surgery and Liver Transplant Institute, Inonu University Faculty of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
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Zhang G, Duan B, Li G. mTORi-based immunosuppression reduces HCC recurrence at the expense of increased adverse side effects: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Transplant 2022; 36:e14823. [PMID: 36124430 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Sirolimus and everolimus are mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) that can reduce relapse rates following liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy of mTORi and calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) in reducing HCC recurrence and survival adverse effects (AEs) in HCC patients after LT. Systematic literature searches were conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases up to October 2021. The primary outcomes of interest were tumor recurrence rates and overall survival. The secondary outcomes were the characterization and incidence of AEs. A total of 38 trials involving 10,607 participants was included in the analysis. The incidence of recurrence and overall mortality was significantly lower in the mTORi than in the CNI group (relative ratio [RR]: .78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: .68-.89 and RR: .76, 95% CI: .67-.86, respectively). The incidence of some AEs and complications such as acne, anemia, abnormal healing, dyslipidemia, depression, diarrhea, edema, headache/migraine, hypercholesterolemia, incisional hernia, infection, leukopenia, mouth ulceration, pyrexia, proteinuria, pruritis, rash, and thrombocytopenia were higher in the mTORi than in the CNI group. mTORi reduced the recurrence incidence and overall 5-year mortality rate but increased many other incidences of AEs compared with that by CNI. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the risks and benefits of mTORi use when managing patients undergoing LT for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gongming Zhang
- Beijing You'an Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Binwei Duan
- Beijing You'an Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guangming Li
- Beijing You'an Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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5
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Yan X, Huang S, Yang Y, Lu Z, Li F, Jiang L, Jiang Y, Liu J. Sirolimus or Everolimus Improves Survival After Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:1063-1077. [PMID: 34919773 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The effects of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors (sirolimus [SRL] and everolimus [EVL]) on survival in liver transplantation (LT) recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain the subject of intense research. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the potential survival benefits of mTOR inhibitors (mTORis). Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies investigating effects of SRL or EVL on LT recipients for HCC. The primary outcomes were 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS), and the secondary outcomes were 1-, 2-, and 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) and adverse effects. Pooled relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by a fixed or random effects model with Mantel-Haenszel weighting. Subgroup analyses were performed according to crucial clinical characteristics. We also conducted sensitivity analyses to assess the reliability of our findings. A total of 17 studies were included. OS was improved in both RCTs (1 year: RR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.00-1.08; 2 years: RR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.02-1.16; 3 years: RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04-1.24; 5 years: RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.02-1.26) and cohort studies (1 year: RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.06-1.20; 2 years: RR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.16-1.32; 3 years: RR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.15-1.34; 5 years: RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.10-1.24), with a lower risk of renal toxicity (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.93). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year RFS were also improved. Current evidence indicates that SRL- or EVL-based immunosuppression improves OS and RFS with a lower risk of renal toxicity compared with mTORi-free immunosuppression. Nevertheless, results must be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Yan
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Songhan Huang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ziwen Lu
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Feiyu Li
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Liyong Jiang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yong Jiang
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Center of Organ Transplantation, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong Province, China
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Nashan B, Schemmer P, Braun F, Schlitt HJ, Pascher A, Klein CG, Neumann UP, Kroeger I, Wimmer P. Early Everolimus-Facilitated Reduced Tacrolimus in Liver Transplantation: Results From the Randomized HEPHAISTOS Trial. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:998-1010. [PMID: 34525259 PMCID: PMC9291476 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Everolimus-facilitated reduced-exposure tacrolimus (EVR + rTAC) at 30 days after liver transplantation (LT) has shown advantages in renal preservation. This study evaluated the effects of early initiation of EVR + rTAC in de novo LT recipients (LTRs). In HEPHAISTOS (NCT01551212, EudraCT 2011-003118-17), a 12-month, multicenter, controlled study, LTRs were randomly assigned at 7 to 21 days after LT to receive EVR + rTAC or standard-exposure tacrolimus (sTAC) with steroids. The primary objective was to demonstrate superior renal function (assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) with EVR + rTAC versus sTAC at month 12 in the full analysis set (FAS). Other assessments at month 12 included the evaluation of renal function in compliance set and on-treatment (OT) patients, efficacy (composite endpoint of graft loss, death, or treated biopsy-proven acute rejection [tBPAR] and individual components) in FAS, and safety. In total, 333 patients (EVR + rTAC, 169; sTAC, 164) were included in the FAS. A high proportion of patients was nonadherent in maintaining tacrolimus trough levels (EVR + rTAC, 36.1%; sTAC, 34.7%). At month 12, the adjusted least square mean eGFR was numerically higher with EVR + rTAC versus sTAC (76.2 versus 72.1 mL/minute/1.73 m2 , difference: 4.1 mL/minute/1.73 m2 ; P = 0.097). A significant difference of 8.3 mL/minute/1.73 m2 (P = 0.03) favoring EVR + rTAC was noted in the compliance set. Incidence of composite efficacy endpoint (7.7% versus 7.9%) and tBPAR (7.1% versus 5.5%) at month 12 as well as incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs were comparable between groups. A lower proportion of patients discontinued EVR + rTAC than sTAC treatment (27.2% versus 34.1%). Early use of everolimus in combination with rTAC showed comparable efficacy, safety, and well-preserved renal function versus sTAC therapy at month 12. Of note, renal function was significantly enhanced in the compliance set.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Nashan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Visceral TransplantationUniversity Medical Center Hamburg‐EppendorfHamburgGermany,Present address:
Organ Transplantation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of ChinaAnhui Provincial HospitalHefeiChina
| | - Peter Schemmer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant SurgeryUniversity Hospital HeidelbergHeidelbergGermany,Present address:
General, Visceral and Transplant SurgeryDepartment of SurgeryMedical University of GrazGrazAustria
| | - Felix Braun
- Department of General, Visceral, Thoracic, Transplant and Pediatric SurgeryUniversity Medical Center Schleswig‐HolsteinKielGermany
| | - Hans J. Schlitt
- Department of SurgeryUniversity Hospital RegensburgRegensburgGermany
| | - Andreas Pascher
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant SurgeryCharité–Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany,Present address:
Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation SurgeryUniversity Hospital MünsterMünsterGermany
| | - Christian G. Klein
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation SurgeryUniversity Hospital EssenEssenGermany
| | - Ulf P. Neumann
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant SurgeryUniversity Hospital AachenAachenGermany,Present address:
Department of GeneralVisceral and Transplant SurgeryUniversity Hospital AachenAachenGermany,Present address:
Department of General SurgeryMaastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC)Maastrichtthe Netherlands
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Shestakov AN, Supurgibekov MB, Shpakova EA, Sharkov DE. Optimization of the Everolimus Intermediate Preparation Process: Impurity Identification Followed by One-Pot Transformation to the Desired Product. Org Process Res Dev 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.1c00456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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8
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Saparbay J, Assykbayev M, Abdugafarov S. Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma of a Renal Allograft. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2021; 22:e933168. [PMID: 34620815 PMCID: PMC8515495 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.933168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Female, 30-year-old
Final Diagnosis: Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma
Symptoms: Pain
Medication: —
Clinical Procedure: —
Specialty: Transplantology
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamilya Saparbay
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, National Research Oncology Center, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Mels Assykbayev
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, National Research Oncology Center, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Saitkarim Abdugafarov
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, National Research Oncology Center, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
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Han B, Ding H, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Wang J, Zhang Y, Gu J. Potential Role of Adjuvant Lenvatinib in Improving Disease-Free Survival for Patients With High-Risk Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Liver Transplantation: A Retrospective, Case Control Study. Front Oncol 2020; 10:562103. [PMID: 33365268 PMCID: PMC7750628 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.562103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Although liver transplantation (LT) is one of the most effective treatments for the patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the high-risk patients suffer from a high ratio of tumor recurrence after LT. Lenvatinib, as a novel targeted drug, has shown an excellent effect in the treatment of advanced HCC, but there is no study on its effect in preventing HCC recurrence in the patients undergoing transplantation. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the role of adjuvant lenvatinib in preventing recurrence of high-risk LT recipients with HBV-related HCC. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed 23 high-risk patients consisting of lenvatinib group (n=14) and control group (n=9) with HBV-related HCC who underwent LT in our center. Disease-free survival (DFS) and HCC recurrence of the two groups were compared. The adverse events (AEs) and drug tolerance of lenvatinib were evaluated. RESULTS The median DFS in lenvatinib group was 291 (95%CI 204-516) days, significantly longer than 182 (95%CI 56-537) days in control group (P=0.04). Three patients in lenvatinib group (21.4%) and five patients in control group (55.6%) had short-term HCC recurrence (P=0.11). All patients in lenvatinib group could tolerate oral lenvatinib for at least three cycles except six cases (42.9%) of dose reduction and 1 case of interruption (14.3%). Thirteen patients (92.9%) taking lenvatinib experienced AEs. The most common AEs were hypertension (64.3%) and proteinuria (42.9%), and the most serious AEs were Grade 3 for 4 cases (28.5%) according to common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) version 5.0. Additionally, no influence of lenvatinib on the dosage and blood concentration of FK506 was observed. CONCLUSIONS Adjuvant lenvatinib had a potential benefit on prolonging the DFS and reducing the recurrence of high-risk HBV-related HCC patients following liver transplantation with an acceptable drug safety and patient tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Han Ding
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichi Zhang
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinyang Gu
- Department of Transplantation, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of General Surgery, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Tejedor-Tejada J, Alonso-Martín C, Almohalla-Álvarez C, Valenzuela EF, Muñoz RN, Delgado LS, Martín CM, Sánchez-Martín F, García-Pajares F, Sánchez-Antolín G. Immunosuppressive Treatment With mTOR Inhibitors for Malignancies After Liver Transplantation: Long-Term Survival Retrospective Analysis. Transplant Proc 2020; 52:1507-1510. [PMID: 32213292 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2020.02.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunosuppressive calcineurin inhibitors have been associated with an increased risk of post-transplant malignancies. The mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) is an alternative immunosuppressive regimen with an antineoplastic effect. The aim of the study was to determine the long-term survival of mTORi-treated recipients with de novo or recurring tumors after liver transplantation (LT). METHODS This retrospective analysis included mTORi-treated LT recipients between March 2013 and March 2019. We analyzed long-term survival and mTORi indications in an oncology setting in patients with de novo and recurrent malignancies after LT. Overall survival (OS) rate was compared from the Spanish Liver Transplant Registry (SLTR) data using the Kaplan-Meier method. High-risk hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was defined as microvascular invasion or satellite lesions as described in the liver explant. RESULTS A total of 237 patients underwent LT during the study period; 111 patients underwent mTORi-based immunosuppression (48%, cancer was the main indication): 24.5% high-risk HCC; 24.4% HCC recurrence; 14.3% cholangiocarcinoma; and 36.7% de novo malignancies. The 1- and 5-year OS rates after LT in the mTORi group were 83% and 65%, respectively (SLTR group, 85% and 72.6%, respectively); 30.6% patients received mTORi monotherapy, and 38.7% patients had an early switch to mTORi in the first 3 months after oncologic diagnosis. mTORi monotherapy or oncologic treatment strategies had a nonsignificant association with prognosis. The OS rate was higher when the mTORi switch occurred early, 83% and 67%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS mTORi-based immunosuppression may be a preferred option in patients transplanted with tumors. The OS rate was comparable to data from the SLTR. An mTORi early switch improves OS rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Tejedor-Tejada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain.
| | - Carmen Alonso-Martín
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Carolina Almohalla-Álvarez
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Esteban Fuentes Valenzuela
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Nájera Muñoz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Laura Sánchez Delgado
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Carlos Maroto Martín
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Fátima Sánchez-Martín
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Félix García-Pajares
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Gloria Sánchez-Antolín
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Liver Transplantation Unit, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, Valladolid, Spain
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11
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Saparbay J, Tanaka Y, Tanimine N, Ohira M, Ohdan H. Everolimus enhances TRAIL‐mediated anti‐tumor activity of liver resident natural killer cells in mice. Transpl Int 2019; 33:229-243. [DOI: 10.1111/tri.13536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jamilya Saparbay
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery Applied Life Sciences Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hiroshima Japan
| | - Yuka Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery Applied Life Sciences Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hiroshima Japan
| | - Naoki Tanimine
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery Applied Life Sciences Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hiroshima Japan
- Department of Surgery Center for Transplantation Sciences Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA USA
| | - Masahiro Ohira
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery Applied Life Sciences Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hiroshima Japan
- Division of Regeneration and Medicine Medical Center for Translational and Clinical Research Hiroshima University Hospital Hiroshima Japan
| | - Hideki Ohdan
- Department of Gastroenterological and Transplant Surgery Applied Life Sciences Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences Hiroshima University Hiroshima Japan
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Grigg SE, Sarri GL, Gow PJ, Yeomans ND. Systematic review with meta-analysis: sirolimus- or everolimus-based immunosuppression following liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 49:1260-1273. [PMID: 30989721 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcineurin-inhibitor immunosuppressants (tacrolimus and ciclosporin) have been associated with an exposure-related increase in tumour recurrence following liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Conversely, mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors (sirolimus and everolimus) have been suggested to reduce recurrence rates and improve survival in this patient group. AIM To clarify the potential benefit of mTOR-inhibitors in HCC transplant patients by comparing recurrence and survival outcomes with calcineurin-inhibitor-based immunosuppression. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. The inclusion criteria were observational or interventional studies reporting the effect of early-initiated (<6 months post-transplant) mTOR-inhibitor-based immunosuppression on survival or tumour recurrence in patients transplanted with HCC, compared to a control of calcineurin-inhibitor-based therapy. RESULTS Meta-analysis demonstrated that compared with calcineurin-inhibitor controls, recurrence-free-survival was significantly increased with mTOR-inhibitor-based therapy at 1-year (Risk-Ratio (RR): 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01-1.18) and 3-years (RR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.01-1.21) post-transplant, with a nonsignificant increase at 5-years (RR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.99-1.35). Overall survival was improved at 1-year (RR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02-1.12), 3-years (RR: 1.1, 95% CI: 1.02-1.19), and 5-years (RR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08-1.29). Recurrence-rate was lower in the mTOR-inhibitor arm (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.56-0.82), with no significant increase in acute rejection (RR: 1.1, 95% CI: 0.94-1.28). CONCLUSIONS mTOR-inhibitor-based immunosuppression may be a preferable option in patients transplanted with HCC. It improves recurrence-free-survival over at least three years and reduces the recurrence rate compared with standard calcineurin-inhibitor-based therapy, with no significant increase in the rate of acute rejection. Future research should clarify the effect in higher vs lower risk cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam E Grigg
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Gino L Sarri
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Paul J Gow
- Liver Transplant Unit, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Vic., Australia
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13
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Abstract
Liver transplantation is the definitive treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease. Liver transplantation is also the optimal treatment for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially in the setting of chronic liver disease. Unfortunately, due to the worldwide shortage of organs, this treatment is not available for all patients with HCC. Strict selection criteria have been developed in order to obtain optimal results. A surgical perspective of the preoperative selection, perioperative management, and postoperative care of patients is reviewed in depth and provides an overview for obtaining optimal long-term results from liver transplantation for HCC. With rigorous selection and patient management, excellent long-term outcomes can be obtained with liver transplantation for patients with HCC.
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Achieving Complete Remission of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Significant Predictor for Recurrence-Free Survival after Liver Transplantation. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 2019:5796074. [PMID: 30729099 PMCID: PMC6341263 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5796074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation (LT) is a curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the underlying primary liver disease; however, tumor recurrence is still a major issue. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess predictors and risk factors for HCC recurrence after LT in patients within and outside the Milan criteria with a special focus on the impact of different bridging strategies. METHODS All patients who underwent LT for HCC between 07/2002 and 09/2016 at the University Hospital of Muenster were consecutively included in this retrospective study. Database research was performed and a multivariable regression analysis was conducted to explore potential risk factors for HCC recurrence. RESULTS A total of 82 patients were eligible for the statistical analysis. Independent of bridging strategy, achieving complete remission (CR) was significantly associated with a lower risk for tumor recurrence (p = 0.029; OR = 0.426, 95% CI 0.198-0.918). A maximal diameter of lesion < 3 cm was also associated with lower recurrence rates (p = 0.040; OR = 0.140, 95% CI 0.022-0.914). Vascular invasion proved to be an independent risk factor for HCC recurrence (p = 0.004; OR = 11.357, 95% CI 2.142-60.199). CONCLUSION Achieving CR prior to LT results in a significant risk reduction of HCC recurrence after LT independent of the treatment modalities applied.
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15
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Afroz F, Jonkman E, Hua J, Kist A, Zhou Y, Sokoya EM, Padbury R, Nieuwenhuijs V, Barritt G. Evidence that decreased expression of sinusoidal bile acid transporters accounts for the inhibition by rapamycin of bile flow recovery following liver ischemia. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 838:91-106. [PMID: 30179613 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Rapamycin is employed as an immunosuppressant following organ transplant and, in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, to inhibit cancer cell regrowth following liver surgery. Preconditioning the liver with rapamycin to induce the expression of antioxidant enzymes is a potential strategy to reduce ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. However, pre-treatment with rapamycin inhibits bile flow, especially following ischemia. The aim was to investigate the mechanisms involved in this inhibition. In a rat model of segmental hepatic ischemia and reperfusion, acute administration of rapamycin by intravenous injection did not inhibit the basal rate of bile flow. Pre-treatment of rats with rapamycin for 24 h by intraperitoneal injection inhibited the expression of mRNA encoding the sinusoidal influx transporters Ntcp, Oatp1 and 2 and the canalicular efflux transporter Bsep, and increased expression of canalicular Mrp2. Dose-response curves for the actions of rapamycin on the expression of Bsep and Ntcp in cultured rat hepatocytes were biphasic, and monophasic for effects on Oatp1. In cultured tumorigenic H4IIE liver cells, several bile acid transporters were not expressed, or were expressed at very low levels compared to hepatocytes. In H4IIE cells, rapamycin increased expression of Ntcp, Oatp1 and Mrp2, but decreased expression of Oatp2. It is concluded that the inhibition of bile flow recovery following ischemia observed in rapamycin-treated livers is principally due to inhibition of the expression of sinusoidal bile acid transporters. Moreover, in tumorigenic liver tissue the contribution of tumorigenic hepatocytes to total liver bile flow is likely to be small and is unlikely to be greatly affected by rapamycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhana Afroz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Els Jonkman
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jin Hua
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alwyn Kist
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Yabin Zhou
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Elke M Sokoya
- Department of Human Physiology, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert Padbury
- The HPB and Liver Transplant Unit, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Greg Barritt
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Flinders Medical Centre and School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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Satapathy SK, Das K, Kocak M, Helmick RA, Eason JD, Nair SP, Vanatta JM. No apparent benefit of preemptive sorafenib therapy in liver transplant recipients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma on explant. Clin Transplant 2018; 32:e13246. [PMID: 29577449 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sorafenib has shown survival benefits in patients with advanced HCC; however, limited data are available on its role in OLT recipients with advanced HCC in the explant. AIM Evaluate the role of preemptive sorafenib therapy on HCC recurrence and survival after OLT with advanced HCC on explant pathology. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the outcome after OLT of all HCC recipients with advanced HCC in the explant pathology from 04/2006 to 12/2012 based on preemptive treatment with sorafenib. RESULTS During the observation period, 217 HCC recipients underwent OLT; 50 explants revealed advanced HCC. After exclusion of 5 patients who were lost to follow-up, 45 LT recipients were finally included for analysis. Recipients were grouped as sorafenib Gr (N = 25) and nonsorafenib Gr (N = 20). Both recurrence-free survival (RFS) (P = .67) and overall survival were similar between groups (P = .53) on Kaplan-Meier analysis. Additionally, sorafenib use was neither associated with HCC recurrence-free survival (HR 0.74, 95% CI [0.32-1.70]; P = .48) nor overall survival (HR 0.92, 95% CI [0.39-2.15], P = .84) on multivariate Cox proportional hazard model with sorafenib use as time-varying covariates. CONCLUSION Preemptive treatment with sorafenib in OLT recipients with high-risk features in explant does not improve HCC recurrence-free or overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjaya K Satapathy
- Transplantation, Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute/University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Kanak Das
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Mehmet Kocak
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ryan A Helmick
- Transplantation, Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute/University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - James D Eason
- Transplantation, Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute/University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Satheesh P Nair
- Transplantation, Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute/University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jason M Vanatta
- Transplantation, Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute/University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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17
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Thorat A, Jeng LB, Yang HR, Yeh CC, Hsu SC, Chen TH, Poon KS. Assessing the role of everolimus in reducing hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after living donor liver transplantation for patients within the UCSF criteria: re-inventing the role of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. Ann Hepatobiliary Pancreat Surg 2017; 21:205-211. [PMID: 29264583 PMCID: PMC5736740 DOI: 10.14701/ahbps.2017.21.4.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds/Aims The protective effect of everolimus (EVR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who receive liver transplantation in terms of reducing the recurrence has not been sufficiently investigated in clinical trials. In this second stage of our ongoing study, we intend to analyze the effects of EVR as an immunosuppressant, when it is started in the early phase after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), on HCC recurrence in patients with HCC within the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) criteria. Methods From January 2011 to June 2013, a total of 250 patients underwent LDLT for HCC at our institute. The patients with HCC within the UCSF criteria were included in the study and divided in two groups depending upon the postoperative immunosuppression. Group A: HCC patients that received EVR+TAC based immunosuppressive regimen (n=37). Group B: HCC patients that received standard TAC based immunosuppressive regimen without EVR (n=29). The target trough level for EVR was 3 to 5 ng/ml while for TAC it was 8–10 ng/ml. Results For group A patients, the mean trough level of the EVR was 3.47±1.53 ng/ml (range, 1.5–11.2) with a daily dose of 1.00±0.25 mg/day. For group A and B, the average TAC trough levels were 6.97±3.98 ng/ml (range, 2.50 to 11.28 ng/ml) and 6.93±2.58 (range, 2–16.30), respectively. The 1-year, 3-year and 4-year overall survival achieved for Group A patients was 94.95%, 86.48% and 86.48%, respectively while for Group B patients it was 82.75%, 68.96%, and 62.06%, respectively (p=0.0217). Conclusions EVR use in liver transplant recipients in the early stage after transplantation reduces the HCC recurrence rates in HCC patients within the UCSF criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Thorat
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Long-Bin Jeng
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Horng-Ren Yang
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chieh Yeh
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chao Hsu
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Te-Hung Chen
- Organ Transplantation Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Surgery, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kin-Shing Poon
- Department of Anaesthesiology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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18
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to develop a "Model Of Recurrence After Liver transplant" (MORAL) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). BACKGROUND The Milan criteria are used to allocate livers to patients with HCC requiring liver transplantation (LT) but do not include objective measures of tumor biology. Biological markers including the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) have been associated with recurrence risk. METHODS Prospective cohort study of adults undergoing LT for HCC between January 2001 and December 2012. RESULTS A total of 339 patients were included. On multivariable Cox regression analysis, 3 preoperatively available factors were independent predictors of worse recurrence-free survival (RFS), namely, an NLR ≥ 5 (P < 0.0001, hazard ratio, HR: 6.2), AFP > 200 (P < 0.0001, HR: 3.8), and Size >3 cm (P < 0.001, HR: 3.2). The Pre-MORAL score was constructed from the hazard ratios and assigning patients points in an additive fashion, with a minimum of 0 points (no factors) and a maximum of 13 points (all 3 factors). The highest risk patients in the Pre-MORAL had a 5-year RFS of 17.9% compared with 98.6% for the low risk group (P < 0.0001). The post-MORAL was constructed similarly using the 4 postoperatively available independent predictors of worse RFS, grade 4 HCC's (P < 0.0001, HR: 5.6), vascular invasion (P = 0.019, HR: 2.0), size >3 cm (P < 0.0001, HR: 3.2) and number >3 (P = 0.048, HR: 1.8). The pre- and post-MORAL were superior to Milan at predicting recurrence with c-statistics of 0.82 and 0.87, compared with 0.63, respectively. We then combined the scores to produce a combo-MORAL, with a c-statistic of 0.91 for predicting recurrence. CONCLUSIONS The MORAL score provides a simple, highly accurate tool for predicting recurrence and risk-stratification pre- and postoperatively.
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19
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Mehta N, Heimbach J, Harnois DM, Sapisochin G, Dodge JL, Lee D, Burns JM, Sanchez W, Greig PD, Grant DR, Roberts JP, Yao FY. Validation of a Risk Estimation of Tumor Recurrence After Transplant (RETREAT) Score for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence After Liver Transplant. JAMA Oncol 2017; 3:493-500. [PMID: 27838698 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.5116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance Several factors are associated with increased hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after liver transplantation (LT), but no reliable risk score has been established to determine the individual risk for HCC recurrence. Objective We aimed to develop and validate a Risk Estimation of Tumor Recurrence After Transplant (RETREAT) score for patients with HCC meeting Milan criteria by imaging. Design, Setting, and Participants Predictors of recurrence were tested in a development cohort of 721 patients who underwent LT between 2002 and 2012 at 3 academic transplant centers (University of California-San Francisco; Mayo Clinic, Rochester; and Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville) to create the RETREAT score. This was subsequently validated in a cohort of 341 patients also meeting Milan criteria by imaging who underwent LT at the University of Toronto transplant center using the C concordance statistic and net reclassification index. Main Outcomes and Measures Characteristics associated with post-LT HCC recurrence. Results A total of 1061 patients participated in the study; 77.8% (825) were men, and the median (IQR) age was 58.2 (53.3-63.9) years in the development cohort and 56.4 (51.7-61.0) years in the validation cohort (P < .001). In the development cohort of 721 patients (542 men), median α-fetoprotein (AFP) level at the time of LT was 8.3 ng/mL; 9.4% had microvascular invasion (n = 68), and 22.1% were beyond Milan criteria on explant (n = 159) owing to understaging by pretransplantation imaging. Cumulative probabilities of HCC recurrence at 1 and 5 years were 5.7% and 12.8%, respectively. On multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, 3 variables were independently associated with HCC recurrence: microvascular invasion, AFP at time of LT, and the sum of the largest viable tumor diameter and number of viable tumors on explant. The RETREAT score was created using these 3 variables, with scores ranging from 0 to 5 or higher that were highly predictive of HCC recurrence (C statistic, 0.77). RETREAT was able to stratify 5-year post-LT recurrence risk ranging from less than 3% with a score of 0 to greater than 75% with a score of 5 or higher. The validation cohort (n = 340; 283 men) had significantly higher microvascular invasion (23.8% [n = 81], P < .001), explant beyond Milan criteria (37.3% [n = 159], P < .001), and HCC recurrence at 5 years (17.9% [n = 159], P = .03). RETREAT showed good model discrimination (C statistic, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.77-0.86) and superior recurrence risk classification compared with explant Milan criteria (net reclassification index, 0.40; P = .001) in the validation cohort. Conclusions and Relevance We have developed and validated a simple and novel prognostic score that may improve post-LT HCC surveillance strategies and help identify patients who may benefit from future adjuvant therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Mehta
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco
| | - Julie Heimbach
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Denise M Harnois
- Department of Transplantation, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer L Dodge
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California-San Francisco
| | - David Lee
- Department of Transplantation, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Justin M Burns
- Department of Transplantation, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - William Sanchez
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Paul D Greig
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David R Grant
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John P Roberts
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California-San Francisco
| | - Francis Y Yao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco5Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California-San Francisco
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20
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Modification of immunosuppressive therapy as risk factor for complications after liver transplantation. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol 2017. [PMID: 28624108 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpg.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Management of complications post-liver transplantation (LT) includes immunosuppressive manipulations with the aim to reduce the overall burden of immunologic suppression and compensate for renal, cardiovascular, metabolic toxicities, and for the increased oncologic risk. Two approaches can be implemented to reduce immunosuppression-related adverse events: upfront schedules tailored to the pretransplant individual patient's risk profile versus downstream modifications in the event of immunosuppression-related complications. Upfront strategies are supported by evidence originating from prospective randomized trials and consist of triple/quadruple schedules whereby calcineurin inhibitors (CNI)-exposure is reduced with combination of anti-CD25 monoclonal antibodies, antimetabolites and corticosteroids. Quadruple regimens allow for staggering of CNI introduction and higher renal function in the early term, but their superiority in the long term has not yet been established. A more recent upfront schedule contemplates early (4 weeks) introduction of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor (mTORi) everolimus and allows for reduction of CNI up to 4 years posttransplantation. Incorporation of mTORi has the potential to prolong time to recurrence for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. However, as suggested by the available evidence, downstream immunosuppressive manipulations are more frequently adopted in clinical practice. These encompass CNI replacement and immunosuppression withdrawal. Switching CNI to mTORi monotherapy is the option most commonly adopted to relieve renal function and compensate for posttransplant malignancies. Its impact is dependent on interval from transplantation and underlying severity of renal impairment. Introduction of mTORi is associated with longer overall survival for patients with extrahepatic posttransplant malignancies, but results are awaited for recurrences of hepatocellular carcinoma. Immunosuppression withdrawal seems feasible (70%) in very long term survivors (>10 years), but is not associated with reversal of immunosuppression-related complications. Awaiting novel immunosuppressive drug categories, integration of upfront strategies with the aim to reduce CNI-exposure and a low threshold for adjustment in the posttransplant course are both advisable to improve long-term outcomes of LT.
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21
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Tarantino G, Magistri P, Ballarin R, Di Francia R, Berretta M, Di Benedetto F. Oncological Impact of M-Tor Inhibitor Immunosuppressive Therapy after Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Review of the Literature. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:387. [PMID: 27818634 PMCID: PMC5073152 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) represents the fifth most common malignancy and the third cancer-related cause of death worldwide. Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viral infections and alcohol abuse are the principal etiological factors for HCC. Liver transplantation (LT) is oncologically the preferable approach to HCC, as it can remove all the intrahepatic tumor foci, and also the oncogenic cirrhotic liver. The use of mTOR inhibitors (mTORi) for immunosuppression after LT for HCC has been proposed due to rapamycin antitumor activity. We decided to review the literature to clarify the oncological role of mTORi after liver transplantation for HCC, analyzing both present condition and future perspectives. Material and Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library Central. The search was limited to studies in humans and to those reported in the English language in the period of time between January 2005 and December 2015. Results: The literature search yielded 93 articles; after duplicates were removed, 77 titles and abstracts were reviewed. Most relevant data and papers are herein reported and discussed. Conclusions: So far, the use of mTORi is encouraging in terms of oncological outcomes for patients underwent LT for HCC, both for prevention and treatment of HCC recurrence although definitive data are still awaited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Tarantino
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena, Italy
| | - Paolo Magistri
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio EmiliaModena, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza - University of RomeRome, Italy
| | - Roberto Ballarin
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena, Italy
| | - Raffaele Di Francia
- Hematology, National Cancer Institute, Fondazione "G. Pascale" Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Di Benedetto
- Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena, Italy
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Holdaas H, De Simone P, Zuckermann A. Everolimus and Malignancy after Solid Organ Transplantation: A Clinical Update. J Transplant 2016; 2016:4369574. [PMID: 27807479 PMCID: PMC5078653 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4369574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignancy after solid organ transplantation remains a major cause of posttransplant mortality. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor class of immunosuppressants exerts various antioncogenic effects, and the mTOR inhibitor everolimus is licensed for the treatment of several solid cancers. In kidney transplantation, evidence from registry studies indicates a lower rate of de novo malignancy under mTOR inhibition, with some potentially supportive data from randomized trials of everolimus. Case reports and small single-center series have suggested that switch to everolimus may be beneficial following diagnosis of posttransplant malignancy, particularly for Kaposi's sarcoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer, but prospective studies are lacking. A systematic review has shown mTOR inhibition to be associated with a significantly lower rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence versus standard calcineurin inhibitor therapy. One meta-analysis has concluded that patients with nontransplant HCC experience a low but significant survival benefit under everolimus monotherapy, so far unconfirmed in a transplant population. Data are limited in heart transplantation, although observational data and case reports have indicated that introduction of everolimus is helpful in reducing the recurrence of skin cancers. Overall, it can be concluded that, in certain settings, everolimus appears a promising option to lessen the toll of posttransplant malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hallvard Holdaas
- Section of Nephrology, Department of Transplant Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postboks 4950 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Paolo De Simone
- Hepatobiliary Surgery & Liver Transplantation, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 5412 Pisa, Italy
| | - Andreas Zuckermann
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Dumortier J, Dharancy S, Calmus Y, Duvoux C, Durand F, Salamé E, Saliba F. Use of everolimus in liver transplantation: The French experience. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2016; 30:161-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Herzer K, Strassburg CP, Braun F, Engelmann C, Guba M, Lehner F, Nadalin S, Pascher A, Scherer MN, Schnitzbauer AA, Zimmermann T, Nashan B, Sterneck M. Selection and use of immunosuppressive therapies after liver transplantation: current German practice. Clin Transplant 2016; 30:487-501. [PMID: 26855333 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, immunosuppression (IS) after liver transplantation (LT) has become increasingly diversified as the choice of agents has expanded and clinicians seek to optimize the balance of immunosuppressive potency with the risk of adverse events in individual patients. Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are the primary agents used for patients undergoing liver transplantation. Other therapeutic agents like interleukin-2 receptor antagonists are not universally administered, but can be considered for the delay or reduction in CNI exposure. An early addition of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or the mTOR inhibitor everolimus also allows for the reduction in the CNI dose. To reduce the risk of malignancy, in particular of skin tumors, as well as to prevent the deterioration of renal function, everolimus-based therapy may be advantageous. Apart from patients with autoimmune hepatitis, steroids are withdrawn within 3-6 months after transplantation. Overall, immunosuppression can only be standardized in a limited proportion of patients due to specific clinical requirements and risk factors. Future studies should attempt to refine accurate individualization of the immunosuppressive regimen in specific difficult-to-treat patient subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Herzer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Felix Braun
- Department for Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Cornelius Engelmann
- Department for Gastroenterology and Rheumatology, Section Hepatology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Markus Guba
- Department for Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Frank Lehner
- Department for Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Silvio Nadalin
- Department for General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Andreas Pascher
- Department of Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Charite-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcus N Scherer
- Department for General-, Visceral- and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Andreas A Schnitzbauer
- Clinic for General and Visceral Surgery, Frankfurt University Hospitals, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Tim Zimmermann
- Department for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Björn Nashan
- Department for Hepatobiliary Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martina Sterneck
- University Transplant Center, University Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Fahrner R, Dondorf F, Ardelt M, Dittmar Y, Settmacher U, Rauchfuß F. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma - factors influencing outcome and disease-free survival. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12071-12082. [PMID: 26576092 PMCID: PMC4641125 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i42.12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Liver transplantation can be a curative treatment in selected patients. However, there are several factors that influence disease-free survival after transplantation. This review addresses the pre-, intra- and postoperative factors that influence the risk of tumor recurrence after liver transplantation.
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Bodzin AS, Finn RS, Busuttil RW. Adjuvant chemotherapy after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2015; 14:234-5. [PMID: 26063022 DOI: 10.1016/s1499-3872(15)60371-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam S Bodzin
- Department of Surgery, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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