1
|
Robinson TJ, Cummins K, Tsung A. Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Colorectal Liver Metastasis: Perspective and Review of Current Literature. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:1079-1090. [PMID: 38392074 PMCID: PMC10887848 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31020080] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of unresectable colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) has previously been limited to palliative chemotherapy. Traditionally, the role of liver transplant has not been associated with sufficient survival to justify a patient undergoing a major operation with the associated requirement for postoperative immunosuppression. With improvements in chemotherapy options, a certain subset of patients can experience stable disease for years, which has prompted investigation into the role of liver transplant in these patients. Several recent studies have shown promising results in well-selected patients, with posttransplant survival approaching that of liver transplant recipients for other diseases. Here, we present a review of the data and current protocols for liver transplant for unresectable CRLM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Allan Tsung
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia, 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA; (T.J.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Krendl FJ, Bellotti R, Sapisochin G, Schaefer B, Tilg H, Scheidl S, Margreiter C, Schneeberger S, Oberhuber R, Maglione M. Transplant oncology - Current indications and strategies to advance the field. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100965. [PMID: 38304238 PMCID: PMC10832300 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) was originally described by Starzl as a promising strategy to treat primary malignancies of the liver. Confronted with high recurrence rates, indications drifted towards non-oncologic liver diseases with LT finally evolving from a high-risk surgery to an almost routine surgical procedure. Continuously improving outcomes following LT and evolving oncological treatment strategies have driven renewed interest in transplant oncology. This is not only reflected by constant refinements to the criteria for LT in patients with HCC, but especially by efforts to expand indications to other primary and secondary liver malignancies. With new patient-centred oncological treatments on the rise and new technologies to expand the donor pool, the field has the chance to come full circle. In this review, we focus on the concept of transplant oncology, current indications, as well as technical and ethical aspects in the context of donor organs as precious resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix J. Krendl
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ruben Bellotti
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gonzalo Sapisochin
- Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benedikt Schaefer
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Herbert Tilg
- Department of Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stefan Scheidl
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christian Margreiter
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stefan Schneeberger
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rupert Oberhuber
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Manuel Maglione
- Department of Visceral, Transplant and Thoracic Surgery, Center for Operative Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Murphy J, Prasad R, Menon K. United Kingdom criteria for liver transplantation in the setting of isolated unresectable colorectal liver metastases. Colorectal Dis 2023; 25:489-494. [PMID: 36471645 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16446] [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: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM Studies have demonstrated that liver transplantation may be an effective treatment for isolated unresectable colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM). Published data suggest that 5-year survival may be as high as 80%; however, recurrent disease is commonplace. Consequently, the Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Colorectal Liver Metastases Fixed Term Working Unit recommended to the NHS Blood and Transplant Liver Advisory Group that while CRCLM is an appropriate indication for transplantation, selection criteria should be conservative and that it should be undertaken within a clinical service evaluation programme. The aim of this work is to outline the proposed UK selection criteria and follow-up process for CRCLM transplantation. METHOD Consensus statement by colorectal cancer/liver transplantation patient representatives, experts in colorectal cancer surgery/oncology, liver transplantation surgery, hepatology, hepatobiliary radiology, hepatobiliary pathology and nuclear medicine. RESULTS This study provides a comprehensive outline of the inclusion/exclusion criteria for referral in the UK. Furthermore, the referral framework is also explained. Pretransplant assessment criteria for listing/delisting are outlined. Finally, the oncology-specific outcome measures posttransplant are described. CONCLUSION It is anticipated this service will begin in December 2022. A series of educational events for the referrers and transplant units will be arranged throughout 2023 to highlight CRCLM as a newly accepted UK indication for transplantation. A national audit will be undertaken to identify patients currently on treatment who meet the criteria for transplant. Data will be collected in a national registry and reviewed on an ongoing basis to confirm the safety of this treatment and to determine if the inclusion criteria require revision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Murphy
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Digestive Diseases and Surgery Institute, Cleveland Clinic London, London, UK
| | - Raj Prasad
- Liver Transplantation and HPB Surgery, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Krishna Menon
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cui X, Geng XP, Zhou DC, Yang MH, Hou H. Advances in liver transplantation for unresectable colon cancer liver metastasis. World J Gastrointest Surg 2021; 13:1615-1627. [PMID: 35070067 PMCID: PMC8727191 DOI: 10.4240/wjgs.v13.i12.1615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that 50% of patients with colorectal cancer will develop liver metastasis. Surgical resection significantly improves survival and provides a chance of cure for patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM). Increasing the resectability of primary unresectable liver metastasis provides more survival benefit for those patients. Considerable surgical innovations have been made to increase the resection rate and decrease the potential risk of hepatic failure postoperation. Liver transplantation (LT) has been explored as a potential curative treatment for unresectable CRLM. However, candidate selection criteria, chemotherapy strategies, refined immunity regimens and resolution for the shortage of grafts are lacking. This manuscript discusses views on surgical indication, peritransplantation anti-tumor and anti-immunity therapy and updated advances in LT for unresectable CRLM. A literature review of published articles and registered clinical trials in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov was performed to identify studies related to LT for CRLM. Some research topics were identified, including indications for LT for CRLM, oncological risk, antitumor regimens, graft loss, administration of anti-immunity drugs and solutions for graft deficiency. The main candidate selection criteria are good patient performance, good tumor biological behavior and chemosensitivity. Chemotherapy should be administered before transplantation but is not commonly administered posttransplantation for preventive purposes. Mammalian target of rapamycin regimens are recommended for their potential oncological benefit, although there are limited cases. In addition to extended criterion grafts, living donor grafts and small grafts combined with two-stage hepatectomy are efficient means to resolve organ deficiency. LT has been proven to be an effective treatment for selected patients with liver-only CRLM. Due to limited donor grafts, high cost and poorly clarified oncological risks, LT for unresectable CRLM should be strictly performed under a well-organized study plan in selected patients. Some vital factors, like LT indication and anti-tumor and anti-immune treatment, remain to be confirmed. Ongoing clinical trials are expected to delineate these topics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Cui
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, Anhui Province, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Geng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, Anhui Province, China
| | - Da-Chen Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, Anhui Province, China
| | - Ming-Hao Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, Anhui Province, China
| | - Hui Hou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230601, Anhui Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tasoudis PT, Ziogas IA, Alexopoulos SP, Fung JJ, Tsoulfas G. Role of liver transplantation in the management of colorectal liver metastases: Challenges and opportunities. World J Clin Oncol 2021; 12:1193-1201. [PMID: 35070738 PMCID: PMC8716993 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i12.1193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is the most common site of colorectal cancer metastasis. Complete resection of the metastatic tumor is currently the only treatment modality available with a potential for cure. However, only 20% of colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) are considered resectable at the time of presentation. Liver transplantation (LT) has been proposed as an alternative oncologic treatment for patients with unresectable CRLM. This review summarizes the published experiences of LT in the setting of unresectable CRLM from the previous decades and discusses the challenges and future horizons in the field. Contemporary experiences that come mostly from countries with broader access to liver grafts are also explored and their promising findings in terms of overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) are outlined along with their study design and methods. The rationale of establishing specific patient selection criteria and the dilemmas around immunosuppressive regimens in patients undergoing LT for CRLM are also highlighted. Additionally, this review describes the findings of studies comparing LT vs chemotherapy alone and LT vs portal vein embolization plus resection for CRLM in terms of OS and DFS. Last but not least, we present current perspectives and ongoing prospective trials that try to elucidate the role of LT for CRLM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ioannis A Ziogas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - Sophoclis P Alexopoulos
- Department of Surgery, Division of Hepatobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, United States
| | - John J Fung
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago Medicine Transplant Institute, Chicago, IL 60637, United States
| | - Georgios Tsoulfas
- Department of Transplant Surgery, Aristotle University School of Medicine, Thessaloniki 54622, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lang SA, Bednarsch J, Czigany Z, Joechle K, Kroh A, Amygdalos I, Strnad P, Bruns T, Heise D, Ulmer F, Neumann UP. Liver transplantation in malignant disease. World J Clin Oncol 2021; 12:623-645. [PMID: 34513597 PMCID: PMC8394155 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i8.623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation for malignant disease has gained increasing attention as part of transplant oncology. Following the implementation of the Milan criteria, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was the first generally accepted indication for transplantation in patients with cancer. Subsequently, more liberal criteria for HCC have been developed, and research on this topic is still ongoing. The evident success of liver transplantation for HCC has led to the attempt to extend its indication to other malignancies. Regarding perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, more and more evidence supports the use of liver transplantation, especially after neoadjuvant therapy. In addition, some data also show a benefit for selected patients with very early stage intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a very rare but nonetheless established indication for liver transplantation in primary liver cancer. In contrast, patients with hepatic angiosarcoma are currently not considered to be optimal candidates. In secondary liver tumors, neuroendocrine cancer liver metastases are an accepted but comparability rare indication for liver transplantation. Recently, some evidence has been published supporting the use of liver transplantation even for colorectal liver metastases. This review summarizes the current evidence for liver transplantation for primary and secondary liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sven Arke Lang
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Jan Bednarsch
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Zoltan Czigany
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Katharina Joechle
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Andreas Kroh
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Iakovos Amygdalos
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Pavel Strnad
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Tony Bruns
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Daniel Heise
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Florian Ulmer
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Ulf Peter Neumann
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen 52074, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Giannis D, Sideris G, Kakos CD, Katsaros I, Ziogas IA. The role of liver transplantation for colorectal liver metastases: A systematic review and pooled analysis. Transplant Rev (Orlando) 2020; 34:100570. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2020.100570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
8
|
Liver transplantation for non-resectable colorectal liver metastasis: where we are and where we are going. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2020; 405:255-264. [PMID: 32333096 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-020-01883-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Almost 50% of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) will develop liver metastasis (LM). Although their only long-term curative treatment is surgery, less than half of these patients can be eventually resected. Therefore, palliative chemotherapy is offered as a definitive option, though with poor results. Recently, the University of Oslo group has published encouraging results in the treatment of these patients with liver transplantation (LT), whereby worldwide interest in this option has been renewed. METHODS A literature review of LT for patients with unresectable colorectal metastasis was performed. This included information regarding patient selection, complications, overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS), immunosuppression, chemotherapy, and description of the ongoing trials. RESULTS Improvements in OS and DFS have been observed in consecutive published prospective trials, as patient selection has been refined. Papers reporting OS of patients who randomly presented similar selection criteria also exhibited good results. CONCLUSION LT within the available therapeutic options in patients with CRC-LM seems to be a compelling alternative in carefully selected patients. The ongoing trials will provide valuable information regarding selection criteria, immunosuppressive therapy and different modalities of adjuvant chemotherapy, which are, to our knowledge, the vital platform of LT in CRC-LM. Although some of the developing techniques involve living donors, graft availability for these patients remains a matter of major concern.
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world. About two third of patients with CRC will develop distant recurrence at some point in time. Liver is the most common site where distant metastasis takes place. While the overall survival (OS) of patients with metastatic CRC was poor about 3 decades ago, there has been tremendous improvement in this area in the recent years. With the advent of effective systemic chemotherapy and biologic agents and better understanding of the biological behaviour of the tumour, aggressive treatment strategies such as metastatectomy of the liver metastases (or lung metastases) are now acceptable. More importantly, it has transformed the way how stage IV CRCs are being managed. From predominantly palliative as the primary aim, a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach is now the mainstay of treatment with very successful outcomes. Combination of systemic therapies with liver resection has been shown to be effective in providing promising survival benefits. In addition, other adjunctive modalities in targeting the liver metastases such as ablation, combining resection and ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), hepatic artery perfusion, etc. have also been demonstrated variable outcome in treating colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). Very recently, transplant oncologists have also explored using liver transplantation as a treatment modality for unresectable CRLM, which has demonstrated very good long-term survival in well selected cases. The new paradigm in the treatment of metastatic CRC has dawned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfred Wei Chieh Kow
- Division of Hepatopancreaticobiliary Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Department of Surgery, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Surgery, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lerut J, Iesari S, Vandeplas G, Fabbrizio T, Ackenine K, Núñez MEI, Komuta M, Coubeau L, Ciccarelli O, Bonaccorsi-Riani E. Secondary non-resectable liver tumors: A single-center living-donor and deceased-donor liver transplantation case series. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2019; 18:412-422. [PMID: 31521538 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the last decades, deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) has gained a place in the therapeutic algorithm of well-selected patients harbouring non-resectable secondary liver tumors. Living-donor LT (LDLT) might represent a valuable means to further expand this indication for LT. METHODS Between 1985 and 2016, twenty-two adults were transplanted because of neuroendocrine (n = 18, 82%) and colorectal metastases (n = 4, 18%); 50% received DDLT and 50% LDLT. In LDLT, 4 (36%) right and 7 (64%) left grafts were used; the median graft-to-recipient-weight ratios (GRWR) were 1.03% (IQR 0.86%-1.30%) and 0.59% (IQR 0.51%-0.91%), respectively. Median post-LT follow-up was 64 months (IQR 17-107) in the DDLT group and 40 months (IQR 35-116) in the LDLT group. DDLT and LDLT recipients were compared in terms of overall survival, graft survival, postoperative complications and recurrence. RESULTS The 1- and 5-year actuarial patient survivals were 82% and 55% after DDLT, 100% and 100% after LDLT, respectively (P < 0.01). One- and 5-year actuarial graft survivals were 73% and 36% after DDLT, 91% and 91% after LDLT (P < 0.01). The outcomes of right or left LDLT were comparable. Donor hepatectomy proved safe, and one donor experienced a Clavien IIIb complication. Bilirubin peak was significantly lower after left hepatectomy compared with that after right hepatectomy [1.3 (IQR 1.2-2.2) vs. 3.3 (IQR 2.3-5.2) mg/dL; P = 0.02]. CONCLUSIONS The more recent LDLT series compared favorably to our DDLT series in the treatment of secondary liver malignancies. The absence of portal hypertension and the use of smaller left grafts make recipient and donor surgeries safe. The safety of the procedures and lack of interference with the scarce allograft pool are expected to lead to a more frequent use of LDLT in the field of transplant oncology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Lerut
- Pôle de Chirurgie Expérimentale et Transplantation, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique [IREC], Université catholique de Louvain [UCL], Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Samuele Iesari
- Pôle de Chirurgie Expérimentale et Transplantation, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique [IREC], Université catholique de Louvain [UCL], Brussels, Belgium; Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Gaetan Vandeplas
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tiziana Fabbrizio
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kevin Ackenine
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Mina Komuta
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurent Coubeau
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olga Ciccarelli
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eliano Bonaccorsi-Riani
- Starzl Abdominal Transplant Unit, University Hospitals Saint-Luc, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liver transplantation for unresectable malignancies: Beyond hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Surg Oncol 2019; 45:2268-2278. [PMID: 31387755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2019.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Indications for liver transplantation have expanded over the past few decades owing to improved outcomes and better understanding of underlying pathologies. In particular, there has been a growing interest in the field of transplant oncology in recent years that has led to considerable developments which have pushed the boundaries of malignant indications for liver transplantation beyond hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this article, we review and summarise the published evidence for liver transplantation in non-HCC primary and metastatic liver malignancies and highlight ongoing clinical trials that address unresolved questions therein. We also examine the current technical, immunological and oncological challenges that face liver transplantation in this growing field and explore potential approaches to overcome these barriers.
Collapse
|
12
|
Recent advances in liver transplantation for cancer: The future of transplant oncology. JHEP Rep 2019; 1:377-391. [PMID: 32039389 PMCID: PMC7005652 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver transplantation is widely indicated as a curative treatment for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. However, with recent therapeutic advances, as well as efforts to increase the donor pool, liver transplantation has been carefully expanded to patients with other primary or secondary malignancies in the liver. Cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal and neuroendocrine liver metastases, and hepatic epithelioid haemangioendothelioma are amongst the most relevant new indications. In this review we discuss the fundamental concepts of this ambitious undertaking, as well as the newest indications for liver transplantation, with a special focus on future perspectives within the recently established concept of transplant oncology.
Collapse
|
13
|
Dueland S, Line PD, Hagness M, Foss A, Andersen MH. Long-term quality of life after liver transplantation for non-resectable colorectal metastases confined to the liver. BJS Open 2018; 3:180-185. [PMID: 30957065 PMCID: PMC6433324 DOI: 10.1002/bjs5.50116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Liver transplantation for patients with non‐resectable colorectal liver metastases offers increased survival, with median overall survival of more than 5 years. The aim of this study was to compare quality of life before and up to 3 years after liver transplantation for colorectal liver metastases. Methods Quality of life was assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ‐C30 questionnaire version 3.0. The patients received the questionnaire before and up to 3 years after liver transplantation. Results Some 23 patients were included in the analysis. Three months after liver transplantation they reported reduced quality of life (global health status scale), physical function and role function, and increased dyspnoea. At 6 months, global health status, physical function and role function had returned to pretransplant values. Three years after liver transplantation all symptom and function scores were comparable to baseline values. Patients with high scores for fatigue, pain and appetite loss at baseline had reduced 3‐year overall survival. Conclusion Patients with non‐resectable colorectal liver‐only metastases receiving liver transplantation had good long‐term quality of life. Patients with high symptom scores before transplantation had reduced 3‐year overall survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Dueland
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - P-D Line
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| | - M Hagness
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - A Foss
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway
| | - M H Andersen
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital Oslo Norway.,Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo Oslo Norway
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Braunschmid T, Kührer I, Mittlböck M, Westerhoff M, Kappel-Latif S, Brammen L, Krishnadath KK, Phillips WA, Gnant M, Kandioler D. TP53 is not a prognostic marker-clinical consequences of a generally disregarded fact. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1434:46-53. [PMID: 30112858 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Technological progress within the last 15-20 years has significantly increased our knowledge about the molecular basis of cancer development, tumor progression, and treatment response. As a consequence, a vast number of biomarkers have been proposed, but only a small fraction of them have found their way into clinical use. The aim of this paper is to describe the specific demands a clinically relevant biomarker should meet and how biomarkers can be tested stepwise. We name this procedure the "triple-R principle": robustness, reproducibility, and relevance. The usefulness of this principle is illustrated with the marker TP53. Since it is mutated in a broad spectrum of cancer entities, TP53 can be considered a very promising marker. Thus, TP53 has been studied in detail but there is still no explicit consensus about its clinical value. By considering our own experience and reviewing the literature, we demonstrate that a major problem of current biomarker research is disregard of whether the biomarker is prognostic or predictive. As an example, it is demonstrated that TP53 is not a prognostic marker, but rather a purely predictive marker, and that disregard of this fact has made this otherwise strong biomarker appear as not being clinically useful so far.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene Kührer
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martina Mittlböck
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Westerhoff
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Sonja Kappel-Latif
- Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lindsay Brammen
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kausilia K Krishnadath
- Department of Translational Gastroenterology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Michael Gnant
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Kandioler
- Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Importance of 18F-FDG PET/CT to select patients with nonresectable colorectal liver metastases for liver transplantation. Nucl Med Commun 2018; 39:621-627. [DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000000843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
16
|
The New Era of Transplant Oncology: Liver Transplantation for Nonresectable Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases. Can J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 2018:9531925. [PMID: 29623268 PMCID: PMC5829429 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9531925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most incident cancer worldwide. Most of CRC patients will develop distant metastases, mainly to the liver, and liver resection is the only potential chance for cure. On the other hand, only a small proportion of patients with hepatic CRC metastasis are candidates for upfront liver resection. Liver transplantation (LT) is an attractive option for patients with nonresectable CRC liver metastases (NRCLM) without extrahepatic involvement. Initial experiences with LT for NRCLM achieved very poor outcomes, with a 5-year overall survival (OS) lower than 20%. However, these initial studies did not have a standardized patient selection or neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapies. With recent advances in the surgical and medical oncology fields, the landscape has changed. Recent studies from Norway have shown an encouraging 5-year OS of 50% when transplanting patients with NRCLM. Nevertheless, the main concern when expanding the indications for LT is organ shortage. To manage this organ shortage, strategies utilizing live donor liver transplantation are gaining favor. A few ongoing trials are assessing the impact of LT in NRCLM patient survival. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review the current status of LT for NRCLM.
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Surgical resection is the only curative modality for colorectal liver metastases (CLM) and 5-year overall survival after resection is about 40%. Nonresectable CLM is not curable and 5-year overall survival is currently about 10%. Before 1995, several liver transplantations for CLMs were performed, but outcome was poor (5-year survival rate: 18%). Liver transplantation for CLMs was abandoned and CLMs were even considered a contraindication to the procedure. Since then, the survival rate after liver transplantation in general has improved by almost 30%. In a prospective pilot study of liver transplantation for nonresectable CLM, a 5-year overall survival rate of 60% was demonstrated, however 19 of 21 patients experienced recurrence of disease. Here, current knowledge and ongoing research in this field is reviewed, and the potential role for liver transplantation as one of several treatment modalities for CLM discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morten Hagness
- Section for Transplantation Surgery, Department of Transplantation Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Postboks 4950 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
- Oslo Biotechnology Center, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Liver transplantation is a validated treatment of primary hepatobiliary tumours. Over the last decade, a renewed interest for liver transplantation as a curative treatment of colorectal liver metastasis (CR-LM) and neuro-endocrine metastasis (NET-LM) has developed. RECENT FINDINGS The ELTR and UNOS analyses showed that liver transplantation may offer excellent disease-free survival (ranging from 30 to 77%) in case of NET-LM, on the condition that stringent selection criteria are implemented. The interest for liver transplantation in the treatment of CR-LM has been fostered by the Norwegian SECA study. Five-year A 5-year survival rate of 60% could be reached. Despite the high recurrence rate (90%), one-third of patients were disease free following pulmonary surgery for metastases. SUMMARY Liver transplantation will take a more prominent place in the therapeutic algorithm of CR-LM and NET-LM. Larger experiences are necessary to improve knowledge about tumour biology and to refine selection criteria. A multimodal approach adding neo and adjuvant medical treatment to the transplant procedure will be key to bring this oncologic transplant project into the clinical arena. The preserved liver function in these patients will allow a more deliberate access to split liver and living donation for these indications.
Collapse
|
19
|
Hibi T, Shinoda M, Itano O, Kitagawa Y. Current status of the organ replacement approach for malignancies and an overture for organ bioengineering and regenerative medicine. Organogenesis 2014; 10:241-9. [PMID: 24836922 DOI: 10.4161/org.29245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant achievements in the organ replacement approach for malignancies over the last 2 decades opened new horizons, and the age of "Transplant Oncology" has dawned. The indications of liver transplantation for malignancies have been carefully expanded by a strict patient selection to assure comparable outcomes with non-malignant diseases. Currently, the Milan criteria, gold standard for hepatocellular carcinoma, are being challenged by high-volume centers worldwide. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy and liver transplantation for unresectable hilar cholangiocarcinoma has been successful in specialized institutions. For other primary and metastatic liver tumors, clinical evidence to establish standardized criteria is lacking. Intestinal and multivisceral transplantation is an option for low-grade neoplasms deemed unresectable by conventional surgery. However, the procedure itself is in the adolescent stage. Solid organ transplantation for malignancies inevitably suffers from "triple distress," i.e., oncological, immunological, and technical. Organ bioengineering and regenerative medicine should serve as the "triple threat" therapy and revolutionize "Transplant Oncology."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taizo Hibi
- Department of Surgery; Keio University School of Medicine; Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shinoda
- Department of Surgery; Keio University School of Medicine; Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Itano
- Department of Surgery; Keio University School of Medicine; Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Kitagawa
- Department of Surgery; Keio University School of Medicine; Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this pilot study was to investigate the potential for long-term overall survival (OS) after liver transplantation for colorectal liver metastases (CLMs). BACKGROUND Patients with nonresectable CLMs have poor prognosis, and few survive beyond 5 years. CLMs are currently considered an absolute contraindication for liver transplantation, although liver transplantation for primary and some secondary liver malignancies shows excellent outcome in selected patients. Before 1995, several liver transplantations for CLMs were performed, but outcome was poor (5-year survival rate: 18%) and liver transplantation for CLMs was abandoned. Since then, the survival rate after liver transplantation in general has improved by almost 30%. On the basis of this, a 5-year survival rate of about 50% after liver transplantation for CLMs could be anticipated. METHODS In a prospective pilot study, liver transplantation for nonresectable CLMs was performed (n = 21). Main inclusion criteria were liver-only CLMs, excised primary tumors, and at least 6 weeks of chemotherapy. RESULTS Kaplan-Meier estimates of the OS rate at 1, 3, and 5 years were 95%, 68%, and 60%, respectively. Metastatic recurrence of disease was common (mainly pulmonary). However, a significant proportion of the recurrences were accessible for surgery, and at follow-up (after median of 27 months; range, 8-60), 33% had no evidence of disease. Hepatic tumor load before liver transplantation, time from primary surgery to liver transplantation, and progressive disease on chemotherapy were identified as significant prognostic factors. CONCLUSIONS OS exceeds by far reported outcome for chemotherapy, which is the only treatment option available for this patient group. Furthermore, OS is comparable with liver resection for resectable CLMs and survival after repeat liver transplantation for nonmalignant diseases. Selection strategies based on prognostic factors may further improve the outcome (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01311453).
Collapse
|
21
|
Surgical options for initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases. HPB SURGERY : A WORLD JOURNAL OF HEPATIC, PANCREATIC AND BILIARY SURGERY 2012; 2012:454026. [PMID: 23082042 PMCID: PMC3469091 DOI: 10.1155/2012/454026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Although the frontiers of liver resection for colorectal liver metastases have broadened in recent decades, approximately 75% of these patients present with unresectable metastases at the time of their diagnosis. In the past, these patients underwent only palliative treatment, without the chance of a cure. In the previous two decades, several therapeutic strategies have been developed that render resectable those metastases that were initially unresectable, thus offering the chance of long-term survival and even a cure to these patients. The oncosurgical modalities that are available include liver resection following portal vein ligation/embolization, “two-stage” liver resection, one-stage ultrasonically guided liver resection, hepatectomy following conversion chemotherapy, and liver resection combined with thermal ablation. Moreover, in recent years, certain authors have recommended the revisiting of the concept of liver transplantation in highly selected patients with unresectable colorectal liver metastases and favorable prognostic factors. By employing such therapies, the number of patients with colorectal liver metastases who undergo a potentially curative treatment could increase to 40%. The safety profile of these approaches is acceptable (morbidity rates as high as 45%, mortality rates of less than 5%). Furthermore, the 5-year survival rates (approximately 30%) are significantly increased over those that were achieved with palliative treatment.
Collapse
|
22
|
Andersen MH, Dueland S, Hagness M, Vidnes T, Finstad ED, Wahl AK, Foss A. Quality of life following liver transplantation in patients with liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma. Scand J Caring Sci 2012; 26:713-9. [PMID: 22452269 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2012.00984.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study quality of life (QoL) in patients with liver metastases from colorectal carcinoma (CRC) following liver transplantation (Ltx). METHODS Ten patients participated in a prospective explorative pilot study. Inclusion criteria were nonresectable liver-only metastases determined by CT/MRI-, PET/CT- scans and colonoscopy, and ECOG 0-1. Primary outcome was QoL assessed by the EORTC-C30 questionnaires at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 12 months after Ltx. RESULTS The patients' age ranged from 50 to 63 years. Nine of 10 patients were observed for 12 months. One patient did not return the form at 6 months and died shortly after because of recurrence of the malignant disease. Compared to baseline, Ltx resulted in sustained excellent global health status scale (score of 100) in one patient, improved scores in 4 and unchanged scores in 3 patients at 12 months. The majority of the patients also reported good functional scores at follow-ups. Although two patients had marked symptoms both before and after Ltx, the patients in general reported low levels of pain and fatigue before and after surgery. CONCLUSION The present study indicates that CRC patients with liver-only metastases who receive Ltx have good QoL and have mostly minor symptoms the first year after Ltx.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marit Helen Andersen
- Division of Cancer Medicine, Surgery and Transplant, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Long-Term Survival After Living-Donor Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Colorectal Metastases to the Liver: Case Report. Transplant Proc 2011; 43:4013-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2011.09.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2011] [Revised: 09/04/2011] [Accepted: 09/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
24
|
Tsoulfas G, Pramateftakis MG, Kanellos I. Surgical treatment of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2011; 3:1-9. [PMID: 21267397 PMCID: PMC3026051 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v3.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2010] [Revised: 12/09/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most frequent cancers in Western societies with an incidence of around 700 per million people. About half of the patients develop metastases from the primary tumor and liver is the primary metastatic site. Improved survival rates after hepatectomy for metastatic colorectal cancer have been reported in the last few years and these may be the result of a variety of factors, such as advances in systemic chemotherapy, radiographic imaging techniques that permit more accurate determination of the extent and location of the metastatic burden, local ablation methods, and in surgical techniques of hepatic resection. These have led to a more aggressive approach towards liver metastatic disease, resulting in longer survival. The goal of this paper is to review the role of various forms of surgery in the treatment of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsoulfas
- Georgios Tsoulfas, Manousos Georgios Pramateftakis, Ioannis Kanellos, Department of Surgery, Aristoteleion University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54622, Greece
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Foss A, Adam R, Dueland S. Liver transplantation for colorectal liver metastases: revisiting the concept. Transpl Int 2010; 23:679-85. [PMID: 20477993 DOI: 10.1111/j.1432-2277.2010.01097.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Liver transplantation (Lt) for colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases is no more considered due to the poor outcome observed up to the 1990s. According to the European Liver Transplant Registry (ELTR), 1- and 5-year patient survival following Lt for CRC liver metastases performed prior to 1995 was 62% and 18%, respectively. However, 44% of graft loss or patient deaths were not related to tumor recurrence. Over the last 20 years there has been dramatic progress in patient survival after Lt, thus it could be anticipated that survival after Lt for CRC secondaries today would exceed from far, the outcome of the past experience. By utilizing new imaging techniques for proper patient selection, modern chemotherapy and aggressive multimodal treatment against metastases, long term survivors and even cure could be expected. Preliminary data from a pilot study show an overall survival rate of 94% after a median follow up of 25 months. While long term survival after the first Lt is 80% all indications confounded, 5-year survival after repeat Lt is no more than 50% to 55%. If patients transplanted for CRC secondaries can reach the latter survival rate, it could be difficult to discriminate them in the liver allocation system and live donation could be an option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aksel Foss
- Department of Transplantation, Oslo University Hospital - Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lim E, Thomson BNJ, Heinze S, Chao M, Gunawardana D, Gibbs P. Optimizing the approach to patients with potentially resectable liver metastases from colorectal cancer. ANZ J Surg 2008; 77:941-7. [PMID: 17931254 DOI: 10.1111/j.1445-2197.2007.04287.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Liver metastases are a common event in colorectal carcinoma. Significant advances have been made in managing these patients in the last decade, including improvements in staging and surgical techniques, an increasing armamentarium of chemotherapeutics and multiple local ablative techniques. While combination chemotherapy significantly improves median patient survival, surgical resection provides the only prospect of cure and is the focus of this review. Interpretation of published work in this field is challenging, particularly as there is no consensus to what is resectable disease. Of particular interest recently has been the use of neoadjuvant treatment for downstaging and downsizing disease in patients with initially unresectable liver metastases, in the hope of response leading to potentially curative surgery. This review summarizes the recent developments and consensus guidelines in the areas of staging, chemotherapy, local ablative techniques, radiation therapy and surgery, emphasizing the multidisciplinary approach to this disease and ongoing controversies in this field and examines the changing paradigms in the management of colorectal hepatic metastases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elgene Lim
- The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Klebig F, Fischer C, Petri S, Gerull H, Wagener C, Tschentscher P. Limitations in Molecular Detection of Lymph Node Micrometastasis From Colorectal Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 16:91-5. [PMID: 17525678 DOI: 10.1097/pdm.0b013e31803278ee] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer patients with lymph node metastasis have a shorter survival and may require adjuvant therapy after surgery of the primary tumor. It is supposed that a more reliable diagnosis can be achieved using tumor-specific DNA mutations for the detection of metastasizing cells. To design a practical approach for a molecular diagnosis of micrometastasis, we applied direct DNA sequencing to screen 48 early stage colorectal carcinomas for the most frequent mutations of the KRAS, P53, and APC tumor genes. KRAS mutations were detected as frequently as described earlier. In contrast, the frequency of P53 and APC hot spot mutations was unexpectedly low, compared with previous studies using other screening methods or including advanced tumor stages. Not more than 31% of early stage tumors showed a mutation in at least 1 of the selected hot spot codons. Applying mutant-enriched polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the mutation of the primary tumor was detected in lymph node DNA from 2 of the KRAS-positive patients. In 1 patient, the result was not verified by subtractive iterative PCR, a principally different molecular method with high sensitivity and specificity. Our data suggest that screening for suitable markers for a molecular detection of occult lymph node metastasis cannot be restricted to small-sized hot spot regions of a few tumor genes and possibly must include tumor-specific epigenetic changes. Furthermore, restriction enzyme-based methods such as mutant-enriched PCR are not suitable to detect any mutation with equal efficiency and they should be carefully controlled to avoid false-positive detection of marker mutations in lymph node DNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Klebig
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistrasse 52, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|