Abstract
BACKGROUND
Systemic, highβdose interferonβΞ± treatment given three times per week subcutaneously induces tumor regression in approximately 30% of patients with inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The objective of the current study was to determine the efficacy and safety of transcatheter arterial interferon embolization for the treatment of patients with inoperable HCC.
METHODS
Eighteen patients with inoperable HCC were recruited to receive 3 different doses of interferonβΞ±β2b (10 megaunits [MU]/m^2^, 30 MU/m^2^, or 50 MU/m^2^) at intervals of 8β12 weeks. Their tumor response, adverse events, and survival were monitored.
RESULTS
In 14 patients with nondiffuse HCC, complete responses and partial responses (> 50% tumor reduction) were observed in 28.6% and 35.7% of patients, respectively. One of four patients with diffuse HCC had a partial response. Thirtyβeight percent of patients had normalization of their Ξ±βfetoprotein level. The median ferritin level at the last followβup was reduced significantly (765 pmol/L; range, 457β2720 pmol/L) compared with the baseline level (1980 pmol/L; range, 1100β3300 pmol/L; P = 0.011). The median survival was 15.9 months. Transient fever and rigor were the most common side effects observed. Five patients (27.8%) developed hypothyroidism. No significant liver decompensation was observed.
CONCLUSIONS
This pilot study showed that transcatheter arterial interferon embolization was an effective method for the treatment of patients with inoperable HCC without significant hepatic toxicity. Cancer 2003;97:2776β82. Β© 2003 American Cancer Society.
DOI 10.1002/cncr.11400