Treatment Of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma Research Articles

The efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization combined with cadonilimab and lenvatinib for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: A phase II clinical trial.

478 Background: Immune-checkpoint inhibitors, in combination with targeted therapy and local therapy, have been developed as promising treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) of intermediate stage. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of cadonilimab(a tetravalent PD-1/CTLA-4 bispecific antibody) plus Lenvatinib (Len) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the treatment of intermediate HCC. Methods: This open label, multicenter phase II trial enrolled patients with histologically or clinically confirmed intermediate uHCC to receive TACE followed by cadonilimab 10mg/kg every 3 weeks plus Len until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression free disease (PFS) according to RECIST v1.1. The secondary endpoint includes safety, overall survival (OS), PFS according to modified RECIST (mRECIST), and objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR) and duration of response (DoR) by both RECIST v1.1 and mRECIST. Results: From June 2022 to May 2023, 78 patients were screened and 60 patients enrolled. As of August 15, 2023, 60 patients received at least once cadonilimab and the median duration of follow-up was 5.1 months. The average number of TACE procedures per patient was 1.70. The median PFS and OS were not reached, while the 6-month PFS rate was 77.1% (95% CI, 60.8-87.3) per RECIST v1.1 and 75.6% (95% CI, 59.5-86.0) per mRECIST. The ORR and DCR were 35.0% (95% CI, 23.1-48.4) and 96.7% (95% CI, 88.5-99.6) according to RECIST v1.1 and 85.0% (95% CI, 73.4-92.9) and 95.0% (95% CI, 86.1-99.0) according to mRECIST. 9 patients (15.0%) achieved complete response per mRECIST. The incidence of grade≥3 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) was 68.9%. The incidence of grade≥3 adverse events related to cadonilimab was 45.9%.The most common TRAEs included thrombocytopenia, aspartate aminotransferase increased, and alanine aminotransferase increased. Conclusions: Combination of TACE and cadonilimab plus len showed promising efficacy and manageable toxicity in intermediate uHCC. Benefit of control on tumor progression after TACE and lasting survival can be expected. Clinical trial information: NCT05319431 . [Table: see text]

An open-label, multicenter study investigating RP3 oncolytic immunotherapy in combination with first- or second-line systemic atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in patients with locally advanced unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma.

TPS576 Background: Despite advances in treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), long-term survival rates remain poor. The combination of atezolizumab (Atezo) plus bevacizumab (Bev) is approved frontline therapy for advanced HCC, but a minority of patients (pts) respond and secondary resistance usually occurs within months. HCC has an immune-suppressed tumor microenvironment (TME), mediated by activated immune checkpoint signaling and angiogenesis pathways, which may contribute to therapeutic resistance. RP3 is a genetically modified herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) that expresses the fusogenic gibbon ape leukemia virus glycoprotein with the R sequence deleted (GALV-GP-R–), an anti–CTLA-4 antibody-like molecule, CD40 ligand, and 4-1BB ligand. The direct oncolytic effect coupled with immune stimulation by RP3 in the TME is intended to provide systemic antitumor activity and synergize with anti–PD-1/PD-L1 agents, such as Atezo. Preclinical data have demonstrated improved distribution of oncolytic HSV within tumors in combination with Bev, supporting the clinical combination of RP3 with Bev. This study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of RP3 combined with Atezo plus Bev as first- (1L) and second-line (2L) systemic therapies for unresectable and advanced HCC (NCT05733598). Methods: The 1L and 2L cohorts will each enroll up to 30 pts. Pts in the 1L cohort may not have received prior systemic treatment; pts in the 2L cohort must have progressed on or following 1 prior line of systemic therapy, which must have included a PD-1/PD-L1–directed agent. Key inclusion criteria include advanced unresectable HCC with ≥1 measurable tumor of ≥1 cm in longest diameter, Child-Pugh class A, and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 to 1. Key exclusion criteria include untreated esophageal and/or gastric varices with bleeding or at high risk for bleeding and macroscopic invasion of the tumor into any major blood vessel(s) and/or main bile ducts. Pts with a history of medically refractory hepatic encephalopathy and/or hepato-renal syndrome are also excluded. Pts in the 1L cohort will receive Atezo 1200 mg and Bev 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks (Q3W) together with RP3 intratumorally Q3W for a total of up to 8 doses. Pts in the 2L cohort will receive RP3 every 2 weeks for 4 doses with Bev Q3W starting on cycle (C)1 day (D)1, then RP3 and Bev Q3W for up to 4 more doses with Atezo Q3W being added on C4D1. The primary endpoint is the overall response rate (ORR) by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1. Secondary endpoints are safety, ORR using HCC modified RECIST, duration of response, complete response rate, and progression-free survival. Clinical trial information: NCT05733598 .

Comparison of the treatment effect between lenvatinib and atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma in pathologically diagnosed metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease.

493 Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is one of the leading etiologies of HCC. Recent evidence indicates that MASLD might affect the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and multi-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in the treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), yet real-world data with accurate pathological diagnosis of MASLD has not been confirmed. Methods: Patients with unresectable HCC who had been pathologically diagnosed with MASLD by liver biopsy and/or hepatectomy and later received treatment with lenvatinib (LEN) or atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (ATZ/Bev) as first-line systemic treatment for HCC were included. Outcomes of treatment with LEN or ATZ/Bev were compared. Results: A total of 48 patients who received LEN (n=26) and ATZ/Bev (n=22) were included. The mean time from pathological diagnosis to the initiation of treatment was not different (LEN 1,542 days, ATZ/Bev 1,260 days; p=0.48). The degree of steatosis, inflammation, ballooning hepatocytes and fibrosis did not differ between LEN and ATZ/Bev. At the initiation of treatment, BCLC stage, albumin–bilirubin grade, and Child–Pugh grade did not differ between LEN and ATZ/Bev. The overall response rate and disease control rate evaluated with modified RECIST criteria were not different between LEN and ATZ/Bev (26.1% and 77.2% for LEN, and 22.7% and 70.8% for ATZ/Bev). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was not different between LEN and ATZ/Bev (266 days vs 287 days, p=0.278). Median overall survival (OS) of LEN tended to be longer than that of ATZ/Bev (1364 days vs 663 days, p=0.081). The potential advantage of LEN in OS was statistically significant in the patients with Child-Pugh score = 5 (P=0.0443). A total of 17 patients received both LEN and ATZ/Bev treatment and order of the treatment did not associate with PFS and OS. Conclusions: Outcomes of LEN and ATZ/Bev treatment for advanced HCC were not different in pathologically confirmed MASLD. Longer OS of LEN than ATZ/Bev was observed in the patients with relatively better liver function, suggesting that LEN might be a suitable first-line treatment for HCC with compensated liver function in the patients with pathologically confirmed MASLD.

Anlotinib combined with penpulimab and hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) in the first-line treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

TPS579 Background: Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is recommended as a treatment option in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Anlotinib plus penpulimab, a humanized anti-PD-1 IgG1 antibody, has shown encouraging activity in the treatment of advanced HCC in an open-label phase II trial (NCT 04172571). Considering different anti-malignancy mechanisms, combining systemic and locoregional therapies may show a potential synergic effect and promising preliminary efficacy results in advanced HCC. Consequently, the aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of Anlotinib, Penpulimab, plus HAIC for advanced HCC. Methods: Trial design: This single-arm, prospective, phase II study will include treatment-naive adult (≥18 years) patients with advanced HCC, ECOG PS 0-2, and Child-Pugh class A-B. A total number of 26 patients will be enrolled for treatment until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. Patients will receive anlotinib(10 mg, p.o., qd, d1-14, q3w), penpulimab (200 mg, i.v., d1, q3w) and HAIC (d1- d2) with the FOLFOX regimen (oxaliplatin 85-130 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2, 5-fluorouracil bolus 400 mg/m2 on day 1, and 5-fluorouracil infusion 2400 mg/m2 for 48 hours) for 4-6 cycles, followed by maintenance therapy with anlotinib and penpulimab for up to 2 years. The primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR)), evaluated using RECIST 1.1. Secondary endpoints are median PFS and overall survival (OS), disease control rate (DCR) per RECIST 1.1, quality of life (QOL) and safety. Recruitment for this study will complete in December 2024.

Comparison of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis.

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib are currently available as first-line therapy for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, comparative efficacy studies are still limited. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of these treatments in HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT). We retrospectively included patients who received either atezolizumab plus bevacizumab or lenvatinib as first-line systemic therapy for HCC with PVTT. Primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and secondary endpoints included progressionfree survival (PFS) and disease control rate (DCR) determined by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors, version 1.1. A total of 52 patients were included: 30 received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 22 received lenvatinib. The median follow-up duration was 6.4 months (interquartile range, 3.9-9.8). The median OS was 10.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7 to not estimated) with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 5.8 months (95% CI, 4.8 to not estimated) with lenvatinib (P=0.26 by log-rank test). There was no statistically significant difference in OS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.34-1.49; P=0.37). The median PFS was similar (P=0.63 by log-rank test), with 4.1 months (95% CI, 3.3-7.7) for atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 4.3 months (95% CI, 2.6-5.8) for lenvatinib (aHR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.51-1.69; P=0.80). HRs were similar after inverse probability treatment weighting. The DCRs were 23.3% and 18.2% in patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib, respectively (P=0.74). The effectiveness of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib was comparable for the treatment of HCC with PVTT.

Nomograms confirm serum IL-6 and CRP as predictors of immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Immunotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has become the first-line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). However, only a small portion of patients are responsive to ICIs. It is important to identify the patients who are likely to benefit from ICIs in clinical practice. We aimed to examine the significance of serum IL-6 and CRP levels in predicting the effectiveness of ICIs for uHCC. We retrospectively recruited 222 uHCC patients who received ICIs treatment (training cohort: 124 patients, validation cohort: 98 patients). In the training cohort, patients are categorized into the response group (R) and no-response group (NR). The levels of serum IL-6 and CRP were compared between the two groups. Internal validation was performed in the validation cohort. Survival analysis was carried out using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regression model. The nomograms were developed and assessed using the consistency index (C-index) and calibration curve. Serum levels of IL-6 and CRP were significantly lower in the R group than in the NR group (9.94 vs. 36.85 pg/ml, p< 0.001; 9.90 vs. 24.50 mg/L, p< 0.001, respectively). An ROC curve was employed to identify the optimal cut-off values for IL-6 and CRP in both groups, resulting in values of 19.82 pg/ml and 15.50 mg/L, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that MVI (HR 1.751, 95%CI 1.059-2.894, p=0.029; HR 1.530, 95%CI 0.955-2.451, p=0.077), elevated IL-6 (HR 1.624, 95%CI 1.016-2.596, p=0.043; HR 2.146, 95%CI 1.361-3.383, p =0.001) and high CRP (HR 1.709, 95%CI 1.041-2.807, p=0.034; HR 1.846, 95%CI 1.128-3.022, p = 0.015) were independent risk factors for PFS and OS, even after various confounders adjustments. Nomograms are well-structured and validated prognostic maps constructed from three variables, as MVI, IL6 and CRP. Low levels of IL-6 and CRP have a positive correlation with efficacy for uHCC patients receiving ICIs.

Organ-specific response with first-line atezolizumab-bevacizumab versus lenvatinib for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based treatments have become the mainstay of first-line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but there has been a concern that intrahepatic HCC lesions may be less responsive to ICI monotherapy. We aimed to investigate the organ-specific response patterns among unresectable HCC patients treated with first-line atezolizumab-bevacizumab or lenvatinib. This retrospective study included 386 patients with Child-Pugh A unresectable HCC who were treated with first-line atezolizumab-bevacizumab (n = 217) or lenvatinib (n = 169). The organ-specific response was separately evaluated according to the site of the lesions: liver, lung, lymph node (LN), and intraabdomen based on a radiological evaluation adopted from RECIST v 1.1. The median age was 60years. Hepatitis B infection was the most common etiology (n = 270, 69.9%), and 291 (75.4%) patients had a viral etiology. The proportion of patients achieving a ≥ 30% reduction in the tumor burden for each organ category was overall higher in the atezolizumab-bevacizumab group than that in the lenvatinib group: 20.2% vs. 11.8%, 23.0% vs. 12.2%, 27.9% vs. 17.9% and 33.3% vs. 15.0% for intrahepatic, lung, LN, and intraabdominal lesions, respectively. The corresponding values for the subgroup with a viral etiology were 17.3% vs. 8.1%, 18.8% vs. 13.3%, 28.9% vs. 3.6%, and 36.0% vs. 12.5%, respectively. Compared to lenvatinib, atezolizumab-bevacizumab was associated with a favorable organ-specific response regardless of the site of the tumor lesions. Unlike anti-PD-1 monotherapy, atezolizumab-bevacizumab had a comparable organ-specific response between intrahepatic and extrahepatic lesions, especially for those with viral etiology HCCs.

Impact of Hyperglycemia on Complication and Mortality after Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Current guidelines regarding periprocedural glycemic control to prevent complications after nonsurgical invasive procedures are insufficient. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a widely used treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. We aimed to investigate the association between diabetes mellitus (DM) per se and the degree of hyperglycemia with postprocedural complications after TACE. A total of 22,159 TACE procedures performed at Seoul National University Hospital from 2005 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The associations between DM, preprocedural glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and periprocedural average glucose with postprocedural adverse outcomes were evaluated. The primary outcome was occurrence of postprocedural bacteremia. Secondary outcomes were acute kidney injury (AKI), delayed discharge and death within 14 days. Periprocedural glucose was averaged over 3 days: the day of, before, and after the TACE procedures. Propensity score matching was applied for procedures between patients with or without DM. Periprocedural average glucose was significantly associated with bacteremia (adjusted odds ratio per 50 mg/dL of glucose, 1.233; 95% confidence interval, 1.071 to 1.420; P=0.004), AKI, delayed discharge, and death within 14 days. DM per se was only associated with bacteremia and AKI. Preprocedural HbA1c was associated with delayed discharge. Average glucose levels above 202 and 181 mg/dL were associated with a significantly higher risk of bacteremia and AKI, respectively, than glucose levels of 126 mg/dL or lower. Periprocedural average glucose, but not HbA1c, was associated with adverse outcomes after TACE, which is a nonsurgical invasive procedure. This suggests the importance of periprocedural glycemic control to reduce postprocedural complications.

Comparative Study of the Short-Term Efficacy and Safety between DEB-TACE and C-TACE in the Treatment of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma, a Retrospective Study.

Background: This is a retrospective study aimed at comparing the clinical efficacy and safety between drug-eluting bead transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) and conventional TACE (C-TACE) in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: From July 2019 to April 2021, we enrolled 282 patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma who were admitted to our hospital, of which 179 and 103 were in the DEB-TACE and C-TACE groups, respectively. General information was collected, and treatment effects were evaluated following the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. To compare the indexes of liver and kidney function, routine blood and coagulation were collected before treatment, and 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Postoperative adverse reactions (ie, fever, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, abdominal pain) were recorded to evaluate the safety of treatment. The two groups' progression-free survival and overall survival were also calculated to assess the treatment effect. Results: Preoperatively, the bilirubin, transaminase, and absolute neutrophil values between the two groups were not statistically significant (P > .05). At 1 month postoperatively, the absolute neutrophil values were significantly higher in the DEB-TACE group than those in the C-TACE group (P < .05). At 3 months postoperatively, AST, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin levels were significantly elevated in the DEB-TACE group (P < .05), compared with the C-TACE group. However, at 6 months postoperatively, total and direct bilirubin levels in the C-TACE group were higher than those in the DEB-TACE group, showing a statistically significant difference (P < .05). For patients undergoing DEB-TACE, the survival risk was lower compared to those undergoing C-TACE. The survival risk of patients undergoing DEB-TACE was lower than that of C-TACE within 20 months postoperatively. The survival risk of patients undergoing DEB-TACE was lower than that of patients undergoing C-TACE. Conclusion: DEB-TACE may be superior to C-TACE in terms of safety and efficacy in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Low-Dose Aspirin in Combination with Transarterial Chemoembolization in Treatment of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Low-Dose Aspirin in Combination with Transarterial Chemoembolization in Treatment of Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Efficacy and Safety of Transarterial Chemoembolization Plus Lenvatinib with or Without Tislelizumab as the First-Line Treatment for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis.

To compare the efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus lenvatinib and tislelizumab (TACE-Len-T) versus TACE plus lenvatinib (TACE-Len) as the first-line treatment for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC). This retrospective study included 136 uHCC patients treated with TACE-Len-T or TACE-Len from January 1, 2021, to June 30, 2023. Clinical outcomes including overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), tumor response and adverse events (AEs) were compared between the two groups. The risk factors affecting OS and PFS were also analyzed. The median OS and PFS of the TACE-Len-T group were significantly longer than those of the TACE-Len group (Median OS: not reached vs 13.8 months, P<0.001; Median PFS: 13.0 months vs 2.7 months, P<0.001). The best overall objective response rate (ORR) was also better with TACE-Len-T treatment (ORR: 72.1% vs 29.4%, P<0.001), and the disease control rate (DCR) significantly increased in the TACE-Len-T group (88.2% vs 48.5%, P<0.001). Multivariate analyses revealed that TACE-Len treatment, tumor number >3, and cTACE were independent risk factors for OS, whereas TACE-Len treatment was the only independent risk factor for PFS. The frequency and severity of AEs in the TACE-Len-T group were comparable to those in the TACE-Len group (any grade: 92.6% vs 91.2%, P=0.753; grade 3 or 4: 33.8% vs 32.3%, P=0.855). TACE-Len-T treatment significantly improved OS, PFS, ORR, and DCR over TACE-Len treatment, with a manageable safety profile in uHCC.

Efficacy and Safety of Transarterial Chemoembolization Plus Donafenib with or without Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as the First-Line Treatment for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis.

To compare the efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus donafenib with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) (T+D+I) versus TACE plus donafenib (T+D) as the first-line treatment for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This retrospective study included patients with unresectable HCC who received T+D+I or T+D between June 2021 and February 2023. The tumor response was analyzed according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. The objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) in the two groups were compared before and after propensity score matching (PSM). Cox's proportional-hazards regression model was used to analyze factors affecting PFS and OS. This study included 69 patients: 41 patients in the T+D group and 28 patients in the T+D+I group. After PSM, 26 patients in each group were analyzed. Patients in the T+D+I group had a higher DCR (96.2% vs 73.1%, P = 0.021), longer median PFS (13.1 vs 7.2 months, P = 0.017), and longer median OS (23.1 vs 14.7 months, P = 0.021) than those in the T+D group. The ORR in the two groups was similar (53.8% vs 50.0%, P = 0.781). Multivariate analyses revealed that T+D+I treatment and total bilirubin levels of <20 μmol/L were independent prognostic factors for long PFS. T+D+I treatment, Child-Pugh class A, and single-lobe tumor distribution were independent prognostic factors for long OS. The incidence of TRAEs in the two groups was similar (P > 0.05). In comparison with TACE plus donafenib, TACE plus donafenib with ICIs could significantly improve DCR, PFS, and OS as a potential first-line treatment for unresectable HCC with an acceptable safety profile.

Prognostic Prediction and Risk Stratification of Transarterial Chemoembolization Combined with Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Dual-Center Study.

The combination of transarterial chemoembolization, molecular targeted therapy, and immunotherapy (triple therapy) has shown promising outcomes in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to build a prognostic model to identify patients who could benefit from triple therapy. This retrospective study encompassed 242 patients with HCC who underwent triple therapy from two centers (Training cohort: 158 patients from the Center 1; External validation cohort: 84 patients from the Center 2). Independent predictors of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were identified through Cox regression analyses, and prognostic models based on Cox proportional hazards models were developed. Prognosis was assessed using Kaplan - Meier curves. In the training cohort, independent predictors of PFS included vascular invasion and the C-reactive protein and alpha-fetoprotein in immunotherapy (CRAFITY) score. Independent predictors of OS were the CRAFITY score, extrahepatic metastasis, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Prognostic prediction models were constructed based on these variables. The prognostic model for OS demonstrated a C-index of 0.715 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.662-0.768) in the training cohort and 0.701 (95% CI, 0.628-0.774) in the validation cohort. Patients were divided into low- and high-risk categories using the predictive model (P<0.001). These findings were corroborated by the external validation cohort. The developed prognostic model serves as a reliable and convenient tool to predict outcomes in patients with unresectable HCC undergoing triple therapy. It aids clinicians in making informed treatment decisions.

EE208 A Total Cost of Care Analysis of Immune-Oncology (IO) Treatments for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma (uHCC): A Canadian Payer Perspective

EE208 A Total Cost of Care Analysis of Immune-Oncology (IO) Treatments for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma (uHCC): A Canadian Payer Perspective

A retrospective pilot study of transarterial chemoembolisation using camrelizumab-eluting Callisphere beads for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma

BackgroundOur objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of initial hepatic arterial infusion of chemotherapy combined with transarterial chemoembolisation using camrelizumab-eluting Callisphere beads (camrelizumab-DEB-TACE) for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsEnrolment included patients with unresectable HCC who underwent camrelizumab-DEB-TACE treatment from September 2021 to February 2023. The assessment included the examination of tumour response, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and the monitoring of adverse events (AEs).ResultsTwenty-one patients were included in the study. The objective response rates (ORR) and disease control rates (DCR) were 55.0% and 90.0% at 1 month and 57.9% and 78.9% at 3 months, respectively. The median PFS and OS were 7.4 and 15.5 months months, respectively. Among the 21 patients, 4 underwent more than 2 procedures of camrelizumab-DEB-TACE, with a mean of 1.9 ± 1.1 procedures (range: 1–4) per patient. No severe complications or treatment-related mortalities were observed. In addition, no patient developed severe AEs related to camrelizumab, such as reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation, immune-related pneumonia, or immune-related myocarditis. Nineteen patients experienced at least one type of AEs related to DEB-TACE, with abdominal pain (n = 16, 76.2%) being the most prevalent AE.ConclusionCamrelizumab-DEB-TACE demonstrated effectiveness and safety as a treatment for unresectable HCC, with no occurrence of severe camrelizumab-related AEs.

Impact of post-progression survival in second-line treatment with molecular target agents for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Sequential therapies are essential to extend overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Several second-line treatments with molecular target agents have shown survival benefits. However, the significance of post-progression survival (PPS) in extending OS in patients with HCC given such treatments remains uncertain. Through a systematic review of the literature in the PubMed database, this study investigated the correlation between PPS and OS and that between progression-free survival (PFS) and OS in patients with HCC given second-line treatments. In total, 3935 patients who had received second-line treatment with regorafenib, ramucirumab, or cabozantinib, which are approved molecular target agents, were identified. In the patients treated with regorafenib, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2=0.729, R=0.854, p<0.001) whereas PFS showed a weak correlation (R2=0.218, R=0.467, p=0.021). In the patients treated with ramucirumab, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2=0.800, R=0.894, p=0.016) whereas PFS showed a negligible correlation (R2=0.020, R=0.140, p=0.791). In the patients treated with cabozantinib, PPS showed a strong correlation with OS (R2=0.856, R=0.925, p=0.003) as did PFS (R2=0.946, R=0.973, p<0.001). PPS plays a more significant role than PFS in extending OS in patients given second-line treatment for unresectable HCC. Sequential therapies after disease progression in second-line treatment are essential to acquire good OS. Maintenance of hepatic reserve function and the patient's general condition is essential during systemic treatments for unresectable HCC.

Isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency associated with atezolizumab and bevacizumab administration for treating hepatocellular carcinoma: a case series.

Atezolizumab and bevacizumab are currently available as first-line treatments for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, but immune-related adverse events are a major concern. We herein report two cases of isolated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) deficiency. Both patients presented with general fatigue, appetite loss, eosinophilia, and hyponatremia after nine cycles in case 1 and three months after stopping treatment for inflammatory arthritis in case 2. Endocrinological investigations revealed unsatisfactory ACTH and cortisol responses despite the preservation of other anterior pituitary hormones, suggesting isolated ACTH deficiency. As it is rapidly improved by steroid replacement therapy, an early diagnosis and treatment make it possible to resume immunotherapy.

Efficacy and safety analysis of TACE + Donafenib + Toripalimab versus TACE + Sorafenib in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective study

ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy and safety of TACE combined with Donafenib and Toripalimab versus TACE combined with Sorafenib in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), aiming to guide personalized treatment strategies for HCC and improve patient prognosis.Materials and methodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 169 patients with unresectable advanced-stage HCC who underwent treatment at the Interventional Department of Wuhan Union Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022. Based on the patients’ treatment strategies, they were divided into two groups: TACE + Donafenib + Toripalimab group (N = 81) and TACE + Sorafenib group (N = 88). The primary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS) of the two groups’ tumors. The secondary endpoint was the occurrence of treatment-related adverse events in the two groups of patients.ResultsThe TACE + Donafenib + Toripalimab group showed higher ORR and DCR compared to the TACE + Sorafenib group (66.7% vs. 38.6%, 82.6% vs. 68.2%, P < 0.05). The TACE + Donafenib + Toripalimab group also demonstrated longer median progression-free survival (mPFS) (10.9 months vs. 7.0 months, P < 0.001) and median overall survival (mOS) (19.6 months vs. 10.9 months, P < 0.001) compared to the TACE + Sorafenib group. When comparing the two groups, the TACE + Sorafenib group had a higher incidence of grade 3–4 hypertension (14.8% vs. 4.9%, P = 0.041), higher incidence of diarrhea (all grades) (18.2% vs. 7.4%, P = 0.042), and higher incidence of hand-foot syndrome (all grades) (26.1% vs. 12.3%, P = 0.032).ConclusionTACE combined with Donafenib and Toripalimab demonstrates superior efficacy and safety in treating unresectable HCC patients. This combination therapy may serve as a feasible option to improve the prognosis of unresectable HCC patients.

Increased c‑SRC expression is involved in acquired resistance to lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Lenvatinib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, serves a crucial role in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, >50% of patients receiving lenvatinib therapy experience tumor growth or metastasis within 1 year, highlighting the need to address acquired resistance as a critical clinical challenge. To elucidate the factors associated with acquired resistance to lenvatinib, a lenvatinib-resistant HCC cell line (JHH-7_LR) was established by exposing a lenvatinib-sensitive HCC cell line, JHH-7, to lenvatinib. The changes in protein expression associated with the development of resistance were analyzed using a proteomic approach, detecting 1,321 proteins and significant changes in the expression of 267 proteins. Using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis bioinformatics software, it was revealed that the activity of multiple signaling pathways varied alongside the changes in expression of these proteins, and c-SRC was identified as a protein involved in a number of these signaling pathways, with its activity varying markedly upon the acquisition of resistance. When co-administering dasatinib, a c-SRC inhibitor, the partial restoration of lenvatinib sensitivity in the JHH-7_LR cell line was observed. The present study demonstrated that increased c-SRC expression was partially associated with HCC resistance to lenvatinib, suggesting that c-SRC inhibition could reduce the resistance of HCC to lenvatinib.

Significance of the autoantibody assay in predicting the development of immune-related adverse events in patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (AB) combination therapy is the first-line treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u-HCC). The management of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) is an important issue associated with achieving a good therapeutic response in patients receiving AB therapy. However, few studies have reported irAE development in patients receiving AB therapy. This study focused on the association between irAE development and autoantibodies at baseline in patients receiving AB therapy. Sixty-one patients receiving AB therapy were enrolled. For autoantibodies, the following antibodies were tested before the start of AB therapy: antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, anti-thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibodies, and acetylcholine receptor antibodies. A patient was considered to have pre-existing antibodies if any of the listed antibodies were present at baseline. Ten patients (16%) developed irAEs during the observation period. The irAEs included liver injury, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency, and rhabdomyolysis. Patients with irAE (n=10) were more likely to be positive for any autoantibody (hazard ratio [HR] 3.7, p=0.047) and RF at baseline (HR 5.4, p=0.035) and to achieve complete response (HR 5.8, p=0.027) than those without. The presence of autoantibodies at baseline was an independent factor associated with irAE development. In the real world, 16% of patients receiving AB therapy for u-HCC developed irAEs. Patients with autoantibodies at baseline are at high risk of developing irAEs and require cautious follow-up.