Systemic Therapy for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Stand and Perspectives
Daniel M Girardi1,2, Lara P Sousa3, Thiago A Miranda3
1Hospital Sírio-Libanes, SGAS 613/614 Conjunto E Lote 95-Asa Sul, Brasília 70200-730, Brazil.
Cancers
|March 29, 2023
Summary
New treatments combining immunotherapy and targeted therapy, like atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, are now the standard of care for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), improving survival for patients ineligible for surgery.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology and Oncology
- Cancer Therapeutics
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally, often arising from chronic liver disease.
- Surgical resection, the primary treatment, is unsuitable for many patients due to liver dysfunction or advanced disease.
- Sorafenib was a long-standing first-line treatment for advanced HCC, but newer options have emerged.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the latest approved first- and second-line therapeutic options for advanced HCC.
- To discuss emerging treatment strategies and future perspectives in HCC management.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical trials and therapeutic approvals for advanced HCC.
- Analysis of data from phase III trials, including immunotherapy and targeted therapy combinations.
Main Results:
- Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab demonstrated improved survival in first-line advanced HCC, establishing a new standard of care.
- Other combinations like nivolumab plus ipilimumab and tremelimumab plus durvalumab show reported clinical benefits.
- Recent advancements have expanded treatment options beyond traditional therapies.
Conclusions:
- The landscape of advanced HCC treatment has evolved significantly with immunotherapy and targeted therapy combinations.
- Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab represents a new standard of care for first-line treatment.
- Ongoing research continues to explore novel combinations for improved patient outcomes.
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