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Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Leonardo G da Fonseca1, Maria Reig2, Jordi Bruix2

  • 1Clinical Oncology, Instituto do Cancer do Estado de São Paulo, University of São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 251-Cerqueira Cesar, São Paulo, São Paulo CEP 01246-000, Brazil.

Clinics in Liver Disease
|October 5, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Sorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), was the first drug to extend survival in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). New TKIs and other therapies now offer more options, but optimal drug selection and sequencing remain key challenges for better HCC patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatobiliary cancer research
  • Pharmacological oncology
  • Clinical trial advancements

Background:

  • Sorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), pioneered survival extension in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
  • Recent advancements include additional TKIs, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies for HCC treatment.
  • The evolving therapeutic landscape necessitates strategic drug selection and sequencing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current treatment landscape for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
  • To discuss the role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and emerging therapies.
  • To highlight the challenges in optimizing drug combinations and sequencing for improved HCC patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical trials and therapeutic advancements in HCC.
  • Analysis of drug classes including TKIs, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies.
  • Discussion of treatment strategies focusing on efficacy and toxicity.

Main Results:

  • Sorafenib remains a foundational therapy, with newer TKIs demonstrating improved survival.
  • Immune checkpoint inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies represent significant additions to the HCC armamentarium.
  • Optimizing drug combinations and sequencing is crucial for maximizing treatment benefits.

Conclusions:

  • The treatment of advanced HCC has significantly evolved beyond initial TKI therapies.
  • Personalized treatment selection, combination, and sequencing are paramount for enhancing efficacy and minimizing toxicity.
  • Future strategies must focus on integrating diverse drug classes for superior HCC patient outcomes.
Keywords:
CabozantinibHepatocellular carcinomaLenvatinibRegorafenibSorafenibSystemic treatmentTyrosine kinase

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