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Published on: September 12, 2019
Liver transplantation in a patient treated by sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma
P Borentain1, E Gregoire, J Hardwigsen
1Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, CHU Conception, 147 boulevard Baille, Marseille cedex 05, France.
Abstract:
Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor currently used in the palliative treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. In patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma, sorafenib could be suggested as neoadjuvant therapy to control tumor growth during waiting time for liver transplantation. However, up to now, safety of liver transplantation in patients undergoing sorafenib treatment is not known. Herein, we report a case of successful liver transplantation in a patient treated by sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma. In this patient, liver transplantation was performed safely and histological examination of explanted liver evidenced complete necrosis of the largest tumor nodule.
Insights
Sorafenib treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may allow for safe liver transplantation. A patient receiving sorafenib for HCC underwent a successful transplant, showing complete tumor necrosis in the explanted liver.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
- Medical Oncology
- Transplant Surgery
Background:
- Sorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor used for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- Neoadjuvant sorafenib may control small HCC tumor growth before liver transplantation.
- The safety of liver transplantation during sorafenib treatment is currently unknown.
Observation:
- This report details a case of liver transplantation in a patient undergoing sorafenib treatment for HCC.
- The liver transplantation procedure was successfully performed.
- Histological examination of the explanted liver revealed complete necrosis of the largest tumor nodule.
Findings:
- Liver transplantation can be safely performed in patients treated with sorafenib for HCC.
- Sorafenib treatment may lead to complete tumor necrosis, a favorable outcome for transplantation.
Implications:
- This case suggests sorafenib may be a viable neoadjuvant therapy for HCC patients awaiting liver transplantation.
- Successful transplantation indicates potential for improved outcomes in HCC patients managed with sorafenib.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the safety and efficacy of sorafenib in the neoadjuvant setting for liver transplantation.
