Locoregional treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma

Citation
J. Bruix et Jm. Llovet, Locoregional treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma, BEST PR RES, 13(4), 1999, pp. 611-622
Citations number
67
Categorie Soggetti
Gastroenerology and Hepatology
Journal title
BEST PRACTICE & RESEARCH IN CLINICAL GASTROENTEROLOGY
ISSN journal
15216918 → ACNP
Volume
13
Issue
4
Year of publication
1999
Pages
611 - 622
Database
ISI
SICI code
1521-6918(199912)13:4<611:LTFHC>2.0.ZU;2-Y
Abstract
Improvements in diagnostic techniques have enhanced our understanding of th e natural history of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This has facilitated a proper evaluation of the available treatment options for this neoplasm thr ough both phase II studies and randomized controlled trials. Surgical resec tion and liver transplantation constitute the first two radical options, an d when they are contra-indicated, patients may benefit from percutaneous et hanol injection or thermal ablation by radiofrequency current. These option s may also achieve a complete response and constitute the last potentially radical therapies for small HCC. In contrast, for large multinodular tumour s, the available treatment options have not been shown to improve survival. Arterial embolization with or without associated chemotherapy has been wid ely used. However, randomized controlled trials have failed to show a survi val benefit, emphasizing the need to develop new treatment strategies.