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van Dijk AM, Bruins Slot AS, Portincasa P, Siegerink SN, Chargi N, Verstraete CJR, de Bruijne J, Vleggaar FP, van Erpecum KJ. Systematic review with meta-analysis: Branched-chain amino acid supplementation in liver disease. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e13909. [PMID: 36394355 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary supplementation with branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) is often used in cirrhotic patients to improve nutritional status. We wanted to explore the evidence for BCAA supplementation in chronic liver disease. METHODS We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies with BCAA supplementation with the presence of a disease-control group (placebo or no intervention) using search terms 'liver cirrhosis', 'hepatocellular carcinoma', 'branched chain amino acids' and relevant synonyms. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I and RoB 2.0 tools. Meta-analyses were performed with a random-effects model. Results were reported following EQUATOR guidelines. RESULTS Of 3378 studies screened by title and abstract, 54 were included (34 randomized controlled trials, 5 prospective case-control studies, 13 retrospective case-control studies: in total 2308 patients BCAA supplementation, 2876 disease-controls). Risk of bias was high/serious for almost all studies. According to meta-analyses, long-term (at least 6 months) BCAA supplementation in cirrhotic patients significantly improved event-free survival (p = .008; RR .61 95% CI .42-.88) and tended to improve overall survival (p = .05; RR .58 95% CI .34-1.00). Two retrospective studies suggested the beneficial effects during sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma. Available studies reported no beneficial effects or contradictory results of BCAA after other specific therapeutic interventions (resection or radiological interventions for hepatocellular carcinoma, liver transplantation, paracentesis or variceal ligation). No convincing beneficial effects of BCAA supplementation on liver function, nutritional status or quality of life were found. No study reported serious side effects of BCAA. CONCLUSIONS Prophylactic BCAA supplementation appears safe and might improve survival in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M van Dijk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Dietetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Alexandra S Bruins Slot
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Clinica Medica "A. Murri", Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Sebastiaan N Siegerink
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Najiba Chargi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Cancer Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Carina J R Verstraete
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joep de Bruijne
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Frank P Vleggaar
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Karel J van Erpecum
- Department Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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The Role of Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation in Combination with Locoregional Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030926. [PMID: 36765884 PMCID: PMC9913329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation has been linked with favorable outcomes in patients undergoing surgical or palliative treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To date, there has been no systematic review investigating the value of BCAA supplementation in HCC patients undergoing locoregional therapies. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search of the literature was performed across five databases/registries using a detailed search algorithm according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. The search was conducted on March 23, 2022. RESULTS Sixteen studies with a total of 1594 patients were analyzed. Most patients were male (64.6%) with a mean age of 68.2 ± 4.1 years, Child-Pugh score A (67.9%) and stage II disease (40.0%). Locoregional therapy consisted of radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization or hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy. BCAA supplementation was in the form of BCAA granules or BCAA-enriched nutrient. Most studies reported improved albumin levels, non-protein respiratory quotient and quality of life in the BCAA group. Results pertaining to other outcomes including overall survival, recurrence rate, and Child-Pugh score were variable. Meta-analysis showed significantly higher levels of post-treatment serum albumin in the BCAA group (SMD = 0.54, 95% CI 0.20-0.87) but no significant differences in mortality rate (RR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.65-1.02) and AST (SMD = -0.13, 95% CI: -0.43-0.18). CONCLUSION BCAA supplementation is associated with higher post-treatment albumin levels. There are currently not sufficient data to support additional benefits. Further studies are needed to elucidate their value.
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Yu L, Paski SC, Dodge J, Bambha K, Biggins SW, Ioannou GN. Effect of dietary branched chain amino acids on liver related mortality: Results from a large cohort of North American patients with advanced HCV infection. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284739. [PMID: 37098004 PMCID: PMC10128927 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Branched chain amino acids (BCAA) supplementation may reduce the incidence of liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis. We aimed to determine whether long-term dietary intake of BCAA is associated with liver-related mortality in a well-characterized cohort of North American patients with advanced fibrosis or compensated cirrhosis. We performed a retrospective cohort study using extended follow-up data from the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial. The analysis included 656 patients who completed two Food Frequency Questionnaires. The primary exposure was BCAA intake measured in grams (g) per 1000 kilocalories (kcal) of energy intake (range 3.0-34.8 g/1000 kcal). During a median follow-up of 5.0 years, the incidence of liver-related death or transplantation was not significantly different among the four quartiles of BCAA intake before and after adjustment of confounders (AHR 1.02, 95% CI 0.81-1.27, P-value for trend = 0.89). There remains no association when BCAA was modeled as a ratio of BCAA to total protein intake or as absolute BCAA intake. Finally, BCAA intake was not associated with the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, encephalopathy or clinical hepatic decompensation. We concluded that dietary BCAA intake was not associated with liver-related outcomes in HCV-infected patients with advanced fibrosis or compensated cirrhosis. The precise effect of BCAA in patients with liver disease warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yu
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Shirley C Paski
- Division of Gastroenterology, Cedar Sinai School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Dodge
- Department of Surgery, Division of Transplant Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Kiran Bambha
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Scott W Biggins
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - George N Ioannou
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Chiang RS, Parish A, Niedzwiecki D, Kappus MR, Muir AJ. Impact of Malnutrition on Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Insertion. Dig Dis Sci 2020; 65:3332-3340. [PMID: 31965391 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-019-06038-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malnutrition is common in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with poor outcomes after hepatic resection and liver transplantation. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is performed for complications of cirrhosis. AIM To assess the impact of malnutrition on TIPS outcomes. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project: National Inpatient Sample database for TIPS procedures from 2005 to 2014. The primary end point was in-hospital mortality. The association of specific malnutrition diagnostic codes and race-ethnicity on mortality was evaluated with survey-weighted logistic regression adjusted for age, gender, admission type, insurance payer, hospital region, comorbidities, and length of stay (LOS). RESULTS From 2005 to 2014, an estimated 53,207 (95% CI 49,330-57,085) admissions with TIPS occurred. A diagnosis of malnutrition was present in 11%. In-hospital death post-TIPS occurred in 15.0% versus 10.7% (p value < 0.001) of patients with and without malnutrition, respectively. Patients with malnutrition had longer post-procedural LOS (median 6.7 vs. 2.9 days, p value < 0.001) and greater total hospital charges (median $144,752 vs. $79,781, p value < 0.001) and were more likely to be discharged to a skilled nursing facility (21.6% vs. 9.7%) than patients without malnutrition. Patients with malnutrition had increased odds of mortality (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07, 1.59) compared to patients with no malnutrition. CONCLUSION Malnutrition was associated with worse outcomes after TIPS. Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of malnutrition in post-procedure outcomes and the ability of interventions for nutritional optimization to improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Chiang
- Duke University School of Medicine, 2530 Erwin Road APT 254, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Alice Parish
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 2721, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Donna Niedzwiecki
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 2721, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Duke Cancer Institute-Biostatistics, Hock Plaza I, 2424 Erwin Rd, Suite 802, Room 8040, Durham, NC, 27705, USA
| | - Matthew R Kappus
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3923, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Andrew J Muir
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3923, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. .,Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Hachiya H, Aoki T, Iso Y, Shimizu T, Tago K, Park KH, Sakuraoka Y, Shiraki T, Mori S, Kubota K. Effects of branched-chain amino acids on postoperative tumor recurrence in patients undergoing curative resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: A randomized clinical trial. JOURNAL OF HEPATO-BILIARY-PANCREATIC SCIENCES 2020; 27:819-829. [PMID: 32949091 DOI: 10.1002/jhbp.830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE No effective postoperative adjuvant therapies have been established for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of oral administration of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) on the recurrence-free survival (RFS) after hepatic resection in HCC patients. METHODS In this randomized clinical trial, HCC patients undergoing curative resections were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the BCAA group or surgery-alone group. The BCAA group received BCAA (Livact® ) for up to 4 years. The primary endpoint was RFS. The secondary endpoint was overall survival (OS). Multivariate analysis was performed to detect the clinical characteristics significantly associated with RFS. RESULTS Between January 2010 and October 2014, 156 patients (75 in BCAA group and 81 in surgery-alone group) were enrolled in the study. Of these, two patients were excluded from the efficacy analysis. Comparison of the survival curves by the log rank test demonstrated no significant difference in the RFS (P = .579) or OS (P = .268) between the BCAA and the control group. Multivariate analysis revealed that the RFS was significantly associated with age and number of tumors. A beneficial effect of BCAA on the RFS was found in patients younger than 72 years old with a HbA1c level of < 6.4%. CONCLUSIONS Oral BCAA supplementation could not reduce the risk of recurrence after hepatic resection in HCC patients; however, the results suggested that BCAA supplementation may be beneficial for selected patients who were younger and had mildly impaired glucose tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Hachiya
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taku Aoki
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Iso
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takayuki Shimizu
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kazuma Tago
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kyung Hwa Park
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yuhki Sakuraoka
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takayuki Shiraki
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shozo Mori
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kubota
- Second Department of Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
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Cho E, Cho HA, Jun CH, Kim HJ, Cho SB, Choi SK. A Review of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Elderly Patients Focused on Management and Outcomes. In Vivo 2020; 33:1411-1420. [PMID: 31471386 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies report a significant age-specific increase in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development among persons over 75 years old. Therefore, there is an urgent need to determine the optimal treatment strategy in elderly patients with HCC. This systemic review examines the clinical characteristics, efficacy, and safety of first-line treatment modalities. The literature was searched regarding epidemiology and clinical outcomes in elderly patients (age ≥75 years) undergoing first-line treatment for HCC. Causative or comorbid conditions of HCC in elderly patients differed from those in younger patients. Radiofrequency ablation may be effective and safe in early stages. Surgical resection may also be feasible in the early stages for selected patients. Transarterial chemoembolization may be safe and effective for intermediate HCC, and sorafenib may be feasible in elderly patients with advanced HCC. Prospective randomized trials are needed to establish the treatment strategy for elderly patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunae Cho
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun A Cho
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung Hwan Jun
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Joon Kim
- Department Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Bum Cho
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Kyu Choi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwanjgu, Republic of Korea
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Tada T, Kumada T, Toyoda H, Yasuda S, Koyabu T, Nakashima M. Impact of Branched-Chain Amino Acid Granule Therapy in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Who Have Normal Albumin Levels and Low Branched-Chain Amino Acid to Tyrosine Ratios. Nutr Cancer 2019; 71:1132-1141. [PMID: 30955354 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1597905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Serum albumin has been reported to be a useful indicator of liver function and branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) therapy is associated with a lower incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We investigated the impact of BCAA granule therapy on overall survival and disease-specific survival in patients with normal albumin levels and low BCAA to tyrosine ratio (BTR)s who had treatment-naïve HCC. Overall survival and disease-specific survival was analyzed in 78 patients with HCC who were treated (n = 27) or not treated (n = 51) with BCAAs. Twenty-six patients died during the follow-up period. There were 19, 5, and 2 patients who died due to HCC, hepatic failure, and non-liver-related disease, respectively. Multivariate analysis for factors associated with overall survival indicated that BCAA therapy was independently associated with good prognosis in patients with HCC (hazard ratio [HR], 0.317; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.123-0.813; P = 0.017). In addition, multivariate analysis using competing risks methods indicated that BCAA therapy is independently associated with reduction of disease-specific mortality (HR, 0.216; 95% CI, 0.068-0.689; P = 0.001). In conclusion, BCAA therapy improved both overall survival and disease-specific survival in HCC patients with low BTRs despite having normal albumin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshifumi Tada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
| | - Takashi Kumada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
| | - Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
| | - Satoshi Yasuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
| | - Takahiro Koyabu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
| | - Megumi Nakashima
- Department of Pharmacy, Ogaki Municipal Hospital , Ogaki , Gifu , Japan
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Tajiri K, Shimizu Y. Branched-chain amino acids in liver diseases. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 3:47. [PMID: 30148232 PMCID: PMC6088198 DOI: 10.21037/tgh.2018.07.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are involved in various bioprocess such as protein metabolism, gene expression, insulin resistance and proliferation of hepatocytes. BCAAs have also been reported to suppress the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in vitro and to be required for immune cells to perform the function. In advanced cirrhotic patients, it has been clarified that serum concentrations of BCAA are decreased, whereas those of aromatic amino acids (AAAs) are increased. These alterations are thought to be the causes of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), sarcopenia and hepatocarcinogenesis and may be associated with the poor prognosis of patients with these conditions. Administration of BCAA-rich medicines has shown positive results in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuto Tajiri
- Department of Gastroenterology, Toyama University Hospital, Toyama, Japan
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Sharma B, Lawrence DW, Hutchison MG. Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) and Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2018; 33:33-45. [DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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10
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Walcott-Sapp S, Billingsley KG. Preoperative optimization for major hepatic resection. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2017; 403:23-35. [PMID: 29150719 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-017-1638-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Major hepatic resections are performed for primary hepatobiliary malignancies, metastatic disease, and benign lesions. Patients with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and steatosis, are at an elevated risk of malnutrition and impaired strength and exercise capacity, deficits which cause increased risk of postoperative complications and mortality. The aims of this report are to discuss the pathophysiology of changes in nutrition, exercise capacity, and muscle strength in patient populations likely to require major hepatectomy, and review recommendations for preoperative evaluation and optimization. METHODS Nutritional and functional impairment in preoperative hepatectomy patients, especially those with underlying liver disease, have a complex and multifactorial physiologic basis that is not completely understood. RESULTS Recognition of malnutrition and compromised strength and exercise tolerance preoperatively can be difficult, but is critical in providing the opportunity to intervene prior to major hepatic resection and potentially improve postoperative outcomes. There is promising data on a variety of nutritional strategies to ensure adequate intake of calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in patients with cirrhosis and reduce liver size and degree of fatty infiltration in patients with hepatic steatosis. Emerging evidence supports structured exercise programs to improve exercise tolerance and counteract muscle wasting. CONCLUSIONS The importance of nutrition and functional status in patients indicated for major liver resection is apparent, and emerging evidence supports structured preoperative preparation programs involving nutritional intervention and exercise training. Further research is needed in this field to develop optimal protocols to evaluate and treat this heterogeneous cohort of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Walcott-Sapp
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Rd., Mail Code: L223, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Kevin G Billingsley
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Rd., Mail Code: L223, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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Colagrande S, Inghilesi AL, Aburas S, Taliani GG, Nardi C, Marra F. Challenges of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:7645-7659. [PMID: 27678348 PMCID: PMC5016365 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i34.7645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive malignancy, resulting as the third cause of death by cancer each year. The management of patients with HCC is complex, as both the tumour stage and any underlying liver disease must be considered conjointly. Although surveillance by imaging, clinical and biochemical parameters is routinely performed, a lot of patients suffering from cirrhosis have an advanced stage HCC at the first diagnosis. Advanced stage HCC includes heterogeneous groups of patients with different clinical condition and radiological features and sorafenib is the only approved treatment according to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer. Since the introduction of sorafenib in clinical practice, several phase III clinical trials have failed to demonstrate any superiority over sorafenib in the frontline setting. Loco-regional therapies have also been tested as first line treatment, but their role in advanced HCC is still matter of debate. No single agent or combination therapies have been shown to impact outcomes after sorafenib failure. Therefore this review will focus on the range of experimental therapeutics for patients with advanced HCC and highlights the successes and failures of these treatments as well as areas for future development. Specifics such as dose limiting toxicity and safety profile in patients with liver dysfunction related to the underlying chronic liver disease should be considered when developing therapies in HCC. Finally, robust validated and reproducible surrogate end-points as well as predictive biomarkers should be defined in future randomized trials.
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Imanaka K, Ohkawa K, Tatsumi T, Katayama K, Inoue A, Imai Y, Oshita M, Iio S, Mita E, Fukui H, Yamada A, Nakanishi F, Inada M, Doi Y, Suzuki K, Kaneko A, Marubashi S, Ito Y, Fukui K, Sakamori R, Yakushijin T, Hiramatsu N, Hayashi N, Takehara T. Impact of branched-chain amino acid supplementation on survival in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma treated with sorafenib: A multicenter retrospective cohort study. Hepatol Res 2016; 46:1002-10. [PMID: 26690886 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 12/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM The therapeutic efficacy of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) when added to sorafenib has not been fully assessed in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This multicenter study investigated whether BCAA supplementation improves prognosis in patients with advanced HCC who underwent sorafenib treatment. METHODS This retrospective analysis included 256 patients with advanced HCC treated with sorafenib, including 55 who did and 201 who did not receive BCAA supplementation. Clinical characteristics and outcomes in relation to Child-Pugh classification were compared in the two groups. Statistical analyses of univariate, multivariate and propensity score-based procedures were used for this study. RESULTS Assessment of 216 Child-Pugh A patients showed that median overall survival was significantly longer in patients with BCAA supplementation than in those without it (440 vs 299 days, P = 0.023). Multivariate analysis showed that BCAA supplementation (P = 0.023), low α-fetoprotein (<100 ng/mL) (P < 0.001), less progressive Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage (A and B) (P = 0.007) and male sex (P = 0.018) were significant independent contributors to better overall survival. The significantly longer overall survival by BCAA supplementation was verified in the analysis using the propensity score in combination with the inverse probability of treatment weighted adjustment (P = 0.026). Assessment of the 40 Child-Pugh B patients showed no significant differences in overall survival between patients with and without BCAA supplementation. CONCLUSION BCAA supplementation may be a valuable adjunctive therapy for improving prognosis in sorafenib-treated Child-Pugh A patients with advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuho Imanaka
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Ohkawa
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomohide Tatsumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Katayama
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsuo Inoue
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka General Medical Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Imai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ikeda Municipal Hospital, Ikeda, Japan
| | - Masahide Oshita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Osaka Police Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Sadaharu Iio
- Department of Gastroenterology, Higashiosaka City Central Hospital, Higashiosaka, Japan
| | - Eiji Mita
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Fukui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yao Municipal Hospital, Yao, Japan
| | - Akira Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Sumitomo Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Nakanishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Hospital Organization Osaka Minami Medical Center, Kawachinagano, Japan
| | - Masami Inada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Toyonaka Municipal Hospital, Toyonaka, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Doi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Otemae Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kunio Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Saiseikai Senri Hospital, Suita, Japan
| | - Akira Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology, NTT West Osaka Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shigeru Marubashi
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuri Ito
- Center for Cancer Control and Statistics, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Keisuke Fukui
- Center for Cancer Control and Statistics, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryotaro Sakamori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Takayuki Yakushijin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Naoki Hiramatsu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
| | - Norio Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Kansai Rousai Hospital, Amagasaki, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Takehara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan
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Takami T, Yamasaki T, Saeki I, Matsumoto T, Suehiro Y, Sakaida I. Supportive therapies for prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence and preservation of liver function. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:7252-7263. [PMID: 27621572 PMCID: PMC4997645 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i32.7252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the deadliest cancers in the world and is associated with a high risk of recurrence. The development of a wide range of new therapies is therefore essential. In this study, from the perspective of supportive therapy for the prevention of HCC recurrence and preservation of liver function in HCC patients, we surveyed a variety of different therapeutic agents. We show that branched chain amino acids (BCAA) supplementation and late evening snack with BCAA, strategies that address issues of protein-energy malnutrition, are important for liver cirrhotic patients with HCC. For chemoprevention of HCC recurrence, we show that viral control after radical treatment is important. We also reviewed the therapeutic potential of antiviral drugs, sorafenib, peretinoin, iron chelators. Sorafenib is a kinase inhibitor and a standard therapy in the treatment of advanced HCC. Peretinoin is a vitamin A-like molecule that targets the retinoid nuclear receptor to induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor growth in HCC cells. Iron chelators, such as deferoxamine and deferasirox, act to prevent cancer cell growth. These chelators may have potential as combination therapies in conjunction with peretinoin. Finally, we review the potential inhibitory effect of bone marrow cells on hepatocarcinogenesis.
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Wirth TC, Manns MP. The impact of the revolution in hepatitis C treatment on hepatocellular carcinoma. Ann Oncol 2016; 27:1467-74. [PMID: 27226385 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdw219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C infection represents a global health problem affecting ∼200 million chronically infected patients worldwide. Owing to the development of a fibrogenic and inflammatory micromilieu in the liver, hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients are at a high risk of developing fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The advent of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), however, has spurred a revolution in the treatment of HCV patients with sustained viral response (SVR) rates exceeding 90% in real-life settings. Recent clinical trials suggest that these novel treatments will not only alter the epidemiology of HCV infection but also the incidence of HCV-induced complications including hepatic decompensation, liver transplantation and hepatocarcinogenesis. Here, we summarize data from clinical trials carried out in HCV patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis and analyze the impact of viral clearance on HCC development and treatment. Finally, we review and discuss current and future treatment options of HCV patients with HCC in pre- and post-transplantation settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- T C Wirth
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover
| | - M P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover German Center for Infectious Diseases (DZIF), Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
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Kamachi S, Mizuta T, Otsuka T, Nakashita S, Ide Y, Miyoshi A, Kitahara K, Eguchi Y, Ozaki I, Anzai K. Sarcopenia is a risk factor for the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after curative treatment. Hepatol Res 2016. [PMID: 26223826 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Sarcopenia, initially proposed as decreased of muscle mass and strength, is associated with aging and malignant diseases. The aim of the present study was to determine whether there is a correlation between sarcopenia and the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after curative treatment. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive naive patients with HCC who underwent curative resection or radiofrequency ablation. To eliminate the influence of cause or the severity of liver damage, subjects were limited to those with HCC with hepatitis C-related cirrhosis and Child-Pugh class A liver function. Patients were assessed using computed tomographic measurement of muscle mass at the level of the third lumbar (L3) vertebrae, the L3 skeletal muscle index (L3 SMI). Sarcopenia was defined by using previously published, sex-specific cut-off value. RESULTS Sarcopenia was present in 61 of 92 patients. Patients' median age was 71.5 years (range, 47-84), and the baseline characteristics of patients were comparable between patients with and without sarcopenia except for sex, serum albumin level, prothrombin time, diabetes mellitus and body mass index. Recurrence rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were 39.1%,77.1%,81.7% for patients with sarcopenia and 23.5%,59.5% and 75.7% for patients without sarcopenia, respectively (P = 0.03). Multivariate Cox analysis revealed that sarcopenia and preoperative α-fetoprotein of more than 40 ng/mL were significant independent factors for recurrence. CONCLUSION Sarcopenia is a risk factor for recurrence in patients with HCC who were treated with curative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saori Kamachi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Mizuta
- Department of Internal Medicine, Imari Arita Kyoritsu Hospital, Saga, Japan
| | - Taiga Otsuka
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Shunya Nakashita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ide
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyoshi
- Department of Surgery, Saga-Ken Medical Centre Koseikan, Saga, Japan
| | - Kenji Kitahara
- Department of Surgery, Saga-Ken Medical Centre Koseikan, Saga, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Eguchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Iwata Ozaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Keizo Anzai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hepatology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Saga University, Saga, Japan
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16
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Tada T, Kumada T, Toyoda H, Kiriyama S, Tanikawa M, Hisanaga Y, Kanamori A, Kitabatake S, Yama T. Impact of the branched-chain amino acid to tyrosine ratio and branched-chain amino acid granule therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: A propensity score analysis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2015; 30:1412-9. [PMID: 25799910 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM It has been reported that the branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) to tyrosine ratio (BTR) is a useful indicator of liver function and BCAA therapy is associated with a decreased incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there has not been sufficient research on the relationship between BTR and the effects of BCAA therapy after initial treatment of HCC. We investigated the impact of BTR and BCAA therapy on survival in patients with HCC. METHODS A total of 315 patients with HCC who were treated (n = 66) or not treated (n = 249) with BCAA were enrolled; of these, 66 were selected from each group using propensity score matching. Survival from liver-related mortality was analyzed. RESULTS In patients who did not receive BCAA therapy (n = 249), multivariate analysis for factors associated with survival indicated that low BTR (≤ 4.4) was independently associated with poor prognosis in patients with HCC (hazard ratio, 1.880; 95% confidence interval, 1.125-3.143; P = 0.016). In addition, among patients selected by propensity score matching (n = 132), multivariate analysis indicated that BCAA therapy was independently associated with good prognosis in patients with HCC (hazard ratio, 0.524; 95% confidence interval, 0.282-0.973; P = 0.041). BTR was not significantly associated with survival. CONCLUSIONS Intervention involving BCAA therapy improved survival in patients with HCC versus untreated controls, regardless of BTR. In addition, low BTR was associated with poor prognosis in patients who did not receive BCAA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshifumi Tada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Takashi Kumada
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Seiki Kiriyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Makoto Tanikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Hisanaga
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Akira Kanamori
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Shusuke Kitabatake
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Tsuyoki Yama
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
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17
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Chen L, Chen Y, Wang X, Li H, Zhang H, Gong J, Shen S, Yin W, Hu H. Efficacy and safety of oral branched-chain amino acid supplementation in patients undergoing interventions for hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Nutr J 2015; 14:67. [PMID: 26155840 PMCID: PMC4496824 DOI: 10.1186/s12937-015-0056-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Most hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients have complications, including cirrhosis and malnutrition. The efficacy of dietary supplementation with oral branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in HCC patients undergoing interventions has not been confirmed. Relevant publications on the efficacy and safety of oral BCAA supplementation for HCC patients undergoing anti-HCC interventions through September, 2014 were searched for identification in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases. The pooled risk ratio (RR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) were used to assess the supplementation effects. A total of 11 eligible studies (974 patients in total) were evaluated and included in our analysis. Oral BCAA supplementation helped to maintain liver reserve with higher serum albumin (SMD = 0.234, 95 % CI: 0.033–0.435, P = 0.022), and lower rates of ascites (RR = 0.545, 95 % CI: 0.316–0.938, P = 0.029) and edema (RR = 0.494, 95 % CI: 0.257–0.952, P = 0.035) than in the control group. BCAA supplementation seemed to be effective in improving mortality, especially in Child-Pugh class B patients, but the efficacy was not confirmed. Apparent effects were not found in improving HCC recurrence, total bilirubin, ALT, or AST. BCAA supplementation was relatively safe without serious adverse events. BCAA supplementation may be clinically applied in improving liver functional reserve for HCC patients and further improving the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Yaqin Chen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Xiwei Wang
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Hongmin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Jiaojiao Gong
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Shasha Shen
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Wenwei Yin
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
| | - Huaidong Hu
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 74 Linjiang Road,Central District, Chongqing, 400010, PR China.
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Borzio M, Dionigi E, Parisi G, Raguzzi I, Sacco R. Management of hepatocellular carcinoma in the elderly. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:1521-1529. [PMID: 26085911 PMCID: PMC4462690 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i11.1521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mean age of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients has been progressively increasing over the last decades and ageing of these patients is becoming a real challenge in every day clinical practice. Unfortunately, international guidelines on HCC management do not address this problem exhaustively and do not provide any specific recommendation. We carried out a literature search in MEDLINE database for studies reporting on epidemiology, clinical characteristics and treatment outcome of HCC in elderly patients. Available data seem to indicate that in elderly patients the outcome of HCC is mostly influenced by liver function and tumor stage rather than by age and the latter should not influence treatment allocation. Age is not a risk for resection and older patients with resectable HCC and good liver function could gain benefit from surgery. Mild comorbidities do not seem a contraindication for surgery in aged patients. Conversely, major resection in elderly, even when performed in experienced high-volume centres, should be avoided. Both percutaneous ablation and transarterial chemoembolization are not contraindicated in aged patients and safety profile of these procedures is acceptable. Sorafenib is a viable option for advanced HCC in elderly provided that a careful evaluation of concomitant comorbidities, particularly cardiovascular ones, is taken into account. Available data seem to suggest that in either elderly and younger, treatment is a main predictor of outcome. Consequently, a nihilistic attitude of physicians towards under- or no-treatment of aged patients should not be longer justified.
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Osaki Y, Nishikawa H. Treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in Japan over the last three decades: Our experience and published work review. Hepatol Res 2015; 45:59-74. [PMID: 24965914 PMCID: PMC4313689 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. In the last few decades, there has been a marked increase in therapeutic options for HCC and epidemiological characteristics at HCC diagnosis have also significantly changed. With these changes and advances in medical technology and surveillance program for detecting earlier stage HCC, survival in patients with HCC has significantly improved. Especially, patients with liver cirrhosis are at high risk of HCC development, and regular surveillance could enable early detection of HCC and curative therapy, with potentially improved clinical outcome. However, unfortunately, only 20% of HCC patients are amenable to curative therapy (liver transplantation, surgical resection or ablative therapies). Locoregional therapies such as radiofrequency ablation, percutaneous ethanol injection, microwave coagulation therapy and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization play a key role in the management of unresectable HCC. Currently, molecular-targeted agents such as sorafenib have emerged as a promising therapy for advanced HCC. The choice of the treatment modality depends on the size of the tumor, tumor location, anatomical considerations, number of tumors present and liver function. Furthermore, new promising therapies such as gene therapy and immunotherapy for HCC have emerged. Approaches to the HCC diagnosis and adequate management for patients with HCC are improving survival. Herein, we review changes of epidemiological characteristics, prognosis and therapies for HCC and refer to current knowledge for this malignancy based on our experience of approximately 4000 HCC cases over the last three decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukio Osaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross HospitalOsaka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross HospitalOsaka, Japan
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20
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Jeng WJ, Lin CC, Chen WT, Sheen IS, Lin CY, Lin SM. Adjuvant therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma after curative treatment. Dig Dis 2014; 32:747-54. [PMID: 25376293 DOI: 10.1159/000368017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy in the world. Although resection and various locoregional therapies can achieve eradication or complete ablation of small HCC, HCC recurrence after these therapies is still common. Although candidates for medical ablation usually exhibit compensated hepatic functional status, the frequent recurrence of HCC after successful ablation contributes to short survival. Therefore, attempts to prevent HCC recurrence are essential to prolong survival. Efforts in preventing HCC recurrence after curative therapies include prevention of early recurrence by improving liver immunity and eliminating microscopic tumor foci or micrometastases, and prevention of late recurrence by reducing the hepatitis activity and using antiviral therapies based on viral suppression/eradication. In HCC with vascular invasion, adjuvant transcatheter arterial chemoembolization should be considered to provide better control. Whether the adjuvant use of sorafenib may suppress microscopic tumor foci or micrometastases may be unveiled in the near future. This review article will update the algorithms, novel medication or study drugs in the prevention of HCC after curative therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Juei Jeng
- Division of Hepatology, Liver Research Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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Zhang F, Wu G, Sun H, Ding J, Xia F, Li X, Ma K, Wang S, Bie P. Radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma in elderly patients fitting the Milan criteria: a single centre with 13 years experience. Int J Hyperthermia 2014; 30:471-9. [PMID: 25314335 DOI: 10.3109/02656736.2014.961042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and outcomes of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in treating elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of 391 patients with HCC fitting the Milan criteria and treated with RFA for the first time from 1999 to 2012 at the Southwest Hospital, China. The patients were divided into two groups, an elderly group (age ≥70 years, n = 102) and a non-elderly group (age <70 years, n = 289). Long-term outcomes were assessed on all patients and survival rates were calculated. RESULTS The overall survival rates of the two groups differed significantly. The recurrence-free survival rates of the two groups did not differ significantly. There was no significant difference between the two groups. Excluding comorbid diseases related deaths, the overall survival rates of the two groups did not differ significantly. CONCLUSIONS The safety and outcomes of RFA in treating early HCC were similar among elderly and non-elderly patients. Co-morbid diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease, rather than HCC or liver diseases, contributed to the relatively low overall survival rate found in elderly patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengshen Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 324 Hospital of the People's Liberation Army , Chongqing , China and
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22
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NISHIKAWA HIROKI, KITA RYUICHI, KIMURA TORU, OHARA YOSHIAKI, TAKEDA HARUHIKO, SAKAMOTO AZUSA, SAITO SUMIO, NISHIJIMA NORIHIRO, NASU AKIHIRO, KOMEKADO HIDEYUKI, OSAKI YUKIO. Clinical significance of early interventional therapy of branched-chain amino acid granules in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: Propensity score matching analysis. Int J Oncol 2014; 45:1082-90. [DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2014.2514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Kawaguchi T, Shiraishi K, Ito T, Suzuki K, Koreeda C, Ohtake T, Iwasa M, Tokumoto Y, Endo R, Kawamura NH, Shiraki M, Habu D, Tsuruta S, Miwa Y, Kawaguchi A, Kakuma T, Sakai H, Kawada N, Hanai T, Takahashi SI, Kato A, Onji M, Takei Y, Kohgo Y, Seki T, Tamano M, Katayama K, Mine T, Sata M, Moriwaki H, Suzuki K. Branched-chain amino acids prevent hepatocarcinogenesis and prolong survival of patients with cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 12:1012-8.e1. [PMID: 24036055 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.08.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although a low plasma level of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) is a marker of cirrhosis, it is not clear whether BCAA supplements affect disease progression. We performed a multicenter study to evaluate the effects of BCAA supplementation on hepatocarcinogenesis and survival in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS We enrolled 299 patients from 14 medical institutions in Japan in a prospective, multicenter study in 2009; 267 patients were followed through 2011. Patients were given BCAA supplements (5.5-12.0 g/day) for more than 2 years (n = 85) or no BCAAs (controls, n = 182). The primary end points were onset of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and death. Factors associated with these events were analyzed by competing risk analysis. RESULTS During the study period, 41 of 182 controls and 11 of 85 patients given BCAAs developed HCC. On the basis of the Cox and the Fine and Gray models of regression analyses, level of α-fetoprotein, ratio of BCAA:tyrosine, and BCAA supplementation were associated with development of HCC (relative risk for BCAAs, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.24-0.88; P = .019). Sixteen controls and 2 patients given BCAAs died. Factors significantly associated with death were Child-Pugh score, blood level of urea nitrogen, platelet count, male sex, and BCAA supplementation (relative risk of death for BCAAs, 0.009; 95% confidence interval, 0.0002-0.365; P = .015) in both regression models. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of a prospective study, amino acid imbalance is a significant risk factor for the onset of HCC in patients with cirrhosis. BCAA supplementation reduces the risk for HCC and prolongs survival of patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Kawaguchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Digestive Disease Information and Research, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Koichi Shiraishi
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Hachioji, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Ito
- Department of Medicine and Gastroenterology, Osaka Kosei-Nenkin Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazutomo Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Chizu Koreeda
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Takii Hospital, Moriguchi, Japan
| | - Takaaki Ohtake
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Motoh Iwasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Yoshio Tokumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Ryujin Endo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Nao-hiro Kawamura
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Mitaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Shiraki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Daiki Habu
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Human Life Science, Osaka, Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuruta
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHO Beppu Medical Center, Beppu, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Miwa
- Miwa Clinic, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gifu, Japan
| | | | | | - Hironori Sakai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, NHO Beppu Medical Center, Beppu, Japan
| | - Norifumi Kawada
- Department of Hepatology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Hanai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Shin-ichi Takahashi
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Mitaka, Japan
| | - Akinobu Kato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan
| | - Morikazu Onji
- Department of Gastroenterology and Metabology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Takei
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kohgo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Toshihito Seki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kansai Medical University Takii Hospital, Moriguchi, Japan
| | - Masaya Tamano
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Katayama
- Department of Hepato-biliary and Pancreatic Oncology, Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mine
- Department of Gastroenterology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Hachioji, Japan
| | - Michio Sata
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine and Digestive Disease Information and Research, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Hisataka Moriwaki
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Suzuki
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Morioka, Japan.
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Nishikawa H, Nishijima N, Arimoto A, Inuzuka T, Kita R, Kimura T, Osaki Y. Effect of nucleoside analog use in patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:608-20. [PMID: 23701455 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 04/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM To examine the effect of nucleoside analog (NA) therapy on clinical outcome in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who underwent curative therapy. METHODS A total of 131 patients with HBV-related HCC who underwent curative therapy were analyzed. They were divided into an NA group who received NA therapy (n = 99, group A) and a control group (n = 32, group B). Group A was further classified into two groups of patients who either received NA therapy before HCC therapy (n = 34, group Aa) or who received NA therapy with initial HCC therapy (n = 65, group Ab). Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared in the three groups. RESULTS The 1- and 3-year cumulative OS rates were both in group Aa, 100% and 88.0% in group Ab, and 100% and 75.7% in group B (overall significance, P = 0.002), respectively. The corresponding RFS rates were 93.1% and 36.0% in group Aa, 78.3% and 45.7% in group Ab, and 78.0% and 38.0% in group B (overall significance, P = 0.734), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that being part of group Aa (P < 0.001) or group Ab (P < 0.001) and having albumin levels of 4.0 g/dL or more (P = 0.040) were significantly associated with OS, while HCC stage (P = 0.001) and hepatitis B e-antigen positivity (P < 0.001) were independent predictors linked to RFS. CONCLUSION NA therapy in patients with HBV-related HCC may improve survival after curative therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Osaka
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25
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Tada T, Kumada T, Toyoda H, Kiriyama S, Tanikawa M, Hisanaga Y, Kanamori A, Kitabatake S, Niinomi T, Ito T, Hasegawa R, Ando Y, Yamamoto K, Tanaka T. Oral supplementation with branched-chain amino acid granules prevents hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with hepatitis C-related cirrhosis: A propensity score analysis. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:288-95. [PMID: 23607436 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2013] [Revised: 03/10/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM It has been reported that branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) supplementation can improve nutritional status and reduce liver-related complications in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. BCAA supplementation reportedly reduces the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in obese cirrhotic patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We investigated the effects of oral supplementation with BCAA granules on hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis using propensity score matching. METHODS A total of 60 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and without history of HCC who were selected by one-to-one matching of propensity scores: 30 patients receiving 12 g/day of BCAA granules for 3 months or more (BCAA group) and 30 being observed without BCAA supplementation (control group). The impact of BCAA supplementation was analyzed on the incidence of HCC. RESULTS The 3- and 5-year rates of HCC development were 13.7% and 13.7% in the BCAA group and 35.1% and 44.5% in the control group, respectively. The BCAA group had a significantly lower rate of HCC than the control group (P = 0.032). Multivariate analysis for factors that were associated with hepatocarcinogenesis indicated that BCAA supplementation was independently associated with a reduced incidence of HCC (hazard ratio 0.131; 95% confidence interval, 0.032-0.530; P = 0.004) along with sex and serum α-fetoprotein. Obesity (body mass index, ≥25 kg/m(2) ) was not significantly associated with an increased incidence of HCC. CONCLUSION Oral supplementation with BCAA granules is associated with a reduced incidence of HCC in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis regardless of the presence of obesity based on the propensity score analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshifumi Tada
- Department of Gastoroenterology and Hepatology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Gifu, Japan
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Nishikawa H, Osaki Y. Clinical significance of therapy using branched-chain amino acid granules in patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Res 2014; 44:149-58. [PMID: 23819582 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.12194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The liver is the major organ for the metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrate. A nutritional approach is required in the treatment of cirrhosis, which is frequently complicated with protein-energy malnutrition. Several advanced treatment approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been established in the past decade. HCC is often complicated by cirrhosis, so treatment of the underlying liver diseases is also necessary to improve the prognosis. Branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) granules were developed originally for the treatment of hypoalbuminemia associated with decompensated cirrhosis. However, subsequent studies found various other pharmacological actions of this agent. We review the clinical significance of therapy using BCAA granules in patients receiving different treatment approaches for cirrhosis and HCC based on the published work as well as our own data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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27
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Saito M, Yano Y, Minami A, Hirano H, Momose K, Sugimoto M, Yoshida M, Azuma T. Branched-chain amino acid granules improve the non-protein respiratory quotient after radiofrequency ablation. Intern Med 2014; 53:1469-75. [PMID: 25030556 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.53.2115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The supplementation of oral branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) granules is known to improve energy metabolism in cirrhotic patients, but not those with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We aimed to clarify whether BCAA granules improve energy metabolism in HCC patients after radiofrequency ablation (RFA). METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study (UMIN000004624) involving 40 HCC patients who underwent RFA at Kobe University Hospital. Indirect calorimetry and urinary/blood biochemical examinations were performed before and seven days after RFA. Blood biochemical examinations were also conducted three months after RFA. The patients treated with and without BCAA supplementation were compared, and univariate factors were statistically examined. RESULTS The non-protein respiratory quotient (npRQ) and albumin levels before RFA were significantly lower in the BCAA group than in the control group (p=0.024 and 0.005). The npRQ ratio (seven days after/before RFA) was significantly higher in the BCAA group than in the control group (p=0.019). In addition, the albumin ratio (three months after/before RFA) was significantly higher in the BCAA group than in the control group (p=0.018). CONCLUSION Supplementation with BCAA granules improves energy metabolism in addition to the liver function after RFA. Improvements in the liver function may result in consistently adequate treatment for HCC recurrence after RFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Saito
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
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Shimizu M, Shirakami Y, Hanai T, Imai K, Suetsugu A, Takai K, Shiraki M, Moriwaki H. Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical approaches for preventing liver carcinogenesis: chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma using acyclic retinoid and branched-chain amino acids. Mol Nutr Food Res 2013; 58:124-35. [PMID: 24273224 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201300538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Revised: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The poor prognosis for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with its high rate of recurrence in the cirrhotic liver. Therefore, more effective strategies need to be urgently developed for the chemoprevention of this malignancy. The malfunction of retinoid X receptor α, a retinoid receptor, due to phosphorylation by Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase is closely associated with liver carcinogenesis and may be a promising target for HCC chemoprevention. Acyclic retinoid (ACR), a synthetic retinoid, can prevent HCC development by inhibiting retinoid X receptor α phosphorylation and improve the prognosis for this malignancy. Supplementation with branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), which are used to improve protein malnutrition in patients with liver cirrhosis, can also reduce the risk of HCC in obese cirrhotic patients. In experimental studies, both ACR and BCAA exert suppressive effects on HCC development and the growth of HCC cells. In particular, combined treatment with ACR and BCAA cooperatively inhibits the growth of HCC cells. Furthermore, ACR and BCAA inhibit liver tumorigenesis associated with obesity and diabetes, both of which are critical risk factors for HCC development. These findings suggest that pharmaceutical and nutraceutical approaches using ACR and BCAA may be promising strategies for preventing HCC and improving the prognosis of this malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
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29
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Tajiri K, Shimizu Y. Branched-chain amino acids in liver diseases. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:7620-7629. [PMID: 24282351 PMCID: PMC3837260 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i43.7620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been shown to affect gene expression, protein metabolism, apoptosis and regeneration of hepatocytes, and insulin resistance. They have also been shown to inhibit the proliferation of liver cancer cells in vitro, and are essential for lymphocyte proliferation and dendritic cell maturation. In patients with advanced chronic liver disease, BCAA concentrations are low, whereas the concentrations of aromatic amino acids such as phenylalanine and tyrosine are high, conditions that may be closely associated with hepatic encephalopathy and the prognosis of these patients. Based on these basic observations, patients with advanced chronic liver disease have been treated clinically with BCAA-rich medicines, with positive effects.
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Nishikawa H, Kimura T, Kita R, Osaki Y. Treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in elderly patients: a literature review. J Cancer 2013; 4:635-43. [PMID: 24155775 PMCID: PMC3805991 DOI: 10.7150/jca.7279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An aging society means that the number of elderly patients with cancer is predicted to rise in the future. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually develops in patients with hepatitis B virus infection, hepatitis C virus infection, or alcoholic liver disease. The risk of developing HCC is also known to be age-dependent and elderly patients sometimes present with HCC. The increased longevity of the population thus means that more elderly HCC patients are to be expected in the coming years. In general, many elderly patients are not receiving optimal therapy for malignancies, because it is often withheld from them because of perceived minimal survival advantage and the fear of potential toxicity. Comprehensive data with regard to treatment of elderly patients with HCC are currently limited. Furthermore, current guidelines for the management of HCC do not satisfy strategies according to age. Thus, there is urgent need for investigation of safety and clinical outcomes in elderly patients who receive therapy for HCC. In this review, we primarily refer to current knowledge of clinical characteristics and outcome in elderly patients with HCC who underwent different treatment approaches (i.e., surgical resection, liver transplantation, locoregional therapies, and molecular-targeting therapy).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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Nishikawa H, Kimura T, Kita R, Osaki Y. Radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma. Int J Hyperthermia 2013; 29:558-68. [PMID: 23937321 DOI: 10.3109/02656736.2013.821528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Unfortunately, only 20% of HCC patients are amenable to curative therapy (liver transplantation or surgical resection). Locoregional therapies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), percutaneous ethanol injection, microwave coagulation therapy, and transcatheter arterial chemoembolisation play a key role in the management of HCC. The choice of the treatment modality depends on the size of the tumour, tumour location, anatomic considerations and the number of tumours present and liver function. RFA therapy for HCC can be performed safely using a percutaneous, laparoscopic, or an open approach, even in patients with poor functional reserve. Since the introduction of RFA, several randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies comparing RFA and other therapies for HCC have been conducted. In addition, in the last decade there have been technical advances in RFA therapy for HCC, resulting in significant improvement in the prognosis of HCC patients treated with this modality. In this review, we primarily focus on percutaneous RFA therapy for HCC and refer to current knowledge and future perspectives for this therapy. We also discuss new emerging ablation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Tennoji-ku, Osaka, Japan.
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Nishikawa H, Arimoto A, Wakasa T, Kita R, Kimura T, Osaki Y. Comparison of clinical characteristics and survival after surgery in patients with non-B and non-C hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer 2013; 4:502-13. [PMID: 23901350 PMCID: PMC3726712 DOI: 10.7150/jca.6503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We compared clinicopathologic data and long-term clinical outcomes among patients with non-B and non-C hepatocellular carcinoma (NBNC-HCC) who underwent curative resection (group A, n=129), those with hepatitis B virus-related HCC (group B, n=62) and those with hepatitis C virus-related HCC (group C, n=284). METHODS Clinicopathologic characteristics and cumulative overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) after curative resection were compared among the three groups. RESULTS The proportion of patients with non-liver cirrhosis (LC) or diabetes mellitus in group A was significantly higher than that in group B or group C. The mean maximum tumor size in group A was significantly larger than that of group B or group C. Cumulative 3-year OS rates after resection were 76% in group A, 79% in group B and 72% in group C (A vs. B, P=0.638; A vs. C, P=0.090; B vs. C, P=0.091; overall significance, P=0.088). The corresponding RFS rates after resection were 38% in group A, 36% in group B and 36% in group C (A vs. B, P=0.528; A vs. C, P=0.281; B vs. C, P=0.944; overall significance, P=0.557). In subgroup analyses in patients with LC, in those without LC and in those who satisfied the Milan criteria, similar results were obtained, i.e., the difference among the three groups did not reach significance in terms of OS and RFS. CONCLUSION Long-term clinical outcomes in patients NBNC-HCC after curative resection were comparable to those in patients with hepatitis virus-related HCC after curative resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- 1. Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
| | - Akira Arimoto
- 2. Departments of Surgery, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
| | - Tomoko Wakasa
- 3. Departments of Pathology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kita
- 1. Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
| | - Toru Kimura
- 1. Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
| | - Yukio Osaki
- 1. Departments of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, 5-30 Fudegasaki-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan
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Nishikawa H, Arimoto A, Wakasa T, Kita R, Kimura T, Osaki Y. Lack of correlation between the antibody to hepatitis B core antigen and survival after surgical resection for hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Rep 2013; 30:91-8. [PMID: 23615658 DOI: 10.3892/or.2013.2422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) on survival after curative surgical resection (SR) for hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between anti-HBc positivity and survival of HCV-related HCC patients who underwent curative SR. A total of 222 patients with HCV-related, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-negative HCC who underwent curative SR were analyzed. They included 119 anti-HBc-positive patients (53.6%) and 103 anti-HBc-negative patients (46.4%). Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates were compared between the two groups. The median follow-up periods in the anti-HBc-positive and anti-HBc-negative groups were 3.4 years (range, 0.3-10.9 years) and 3.2 years (range, 0.5-10.9 years), respectively. The 1-, 3- and 5-year cumulative OS rates were 88.8, 70.2 and 50.0%, respectively, in the anti-HBc-positive group and 95.8, 77.1 and 61.7% in the anti-HBc-negative group (P=0.300). The corresponding RFS rates were 68.7, 33.0 and 20.0%, respectively, in the anti-HBc-positive group and 74.4, 38.5 and 16.5% in the anti-HBc-negative group (P=0.482). Multivariate analyses identified serum albumin ≥3.8 g/dl (P=0.005) and the presence of microvascular invasion (P<0.001) as independent factors linked to OS, and interferon therapy after surgery (P=0.011), α-fetoprotein ≥40 ng/ml (P=0.030) and the presence of microvascular invasion (P<0.001) were significant predictors linked to RFS. In subgroup analyses according to maximum tumor size and background liver disease in terms of OS and RFS, no significant difference between the anti-HBc-positive and anti-HBc-negative groups was observed except in patients with non-cirrhotic liver in terms of RFS. In conclusion, anti-HBc-positivity is not a useful predictor for survival of patients with HCV-related HCC after curative SR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Nishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Osaka Red Cross Hospital, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0027, Japan.
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