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An Oncogenic Hepatocyte-Induced Orthotopic Mouse Model of Hepatocellular Cancer Arising in the Setting of Hepatic Inflammation and Fibrosis
Published on: September 12, 2019
Endolymphatic immunotherapy in inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma
R Bertelli1, F Neri, M Tsivian
1Department of General Surgery and Transplantations, S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
Transplantation Proceedings
|August 5, 2008
Summary
Endolymphatic immunotherapy using interleukin-2 (IL-2)-activated lymphocytes shows promise for inoperable liver cancer (HCC). Patients completing 12 cycles demonstrated significantly improved survival and biochemical markers, with no major adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma Research
Background:
- Preliminary investigation of endolymphatic immunotherapy for inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- Exploration of treatment efficacy in a cohort of 31 patients diagnosed between 2003 and 2005.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endolymphatic immunotherapy in patients with inoperable HCC.
- To assess the impact of treatment on survival rates and various biochemical and clinical parameters.
Main Methods:
- Monthly endolymphatic injections of interleukin-2 (IL-2)-activated peripheral autologous lymphocytes (LAK) and IL-2 administered to 31 patients.
- Regular monitoring of biochemical parameters, imaging studies, and clinical assessments including vascular invasion, Child-Pugh score, and alpha-fetoprotein levels.
- Follow-up protocols included blood biochemistry every 3 months and imaging studies every 6 months.
Main Results:
- No clinically significant adverse reactions were observed, indicating a favorable safety profile.
- While tumor mass reduction was not significant, patients completing 12 therapy cycles showed markedly improved survival rates compared to those with fewer cycles or untreated patients.
- Significant improvement in 9 or more biochemical and clinical parameters was noted in patients who completed 12 cycles of therapy.
Conclusions:
- Endolymphatic immunotherapy is a safe, accessible, and cost-effective treatment option for inoperable HCC, particularly regarding survival benefits.
- The preliminary findings warrant larger-scale investigations to solidify conclusions and establish standardized patient selection criteria for this therapeutic approach.
