Immunotherapy for advanced or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma
1Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, China.
World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology
|April 3, 2023
Summary
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatments are evolving with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and novel immunotherapies. This review explores current and emerging HCC therapies, including combination treatments, for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary cancers
- Immunotherapy
- Oncology
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents significant morbidity and mortality, often with metastasis.
- Traditional treatments like surgery and ablation have limitations due to complexity and high recurrence rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for HCC treatment.
- To explore emerging immunotherapies, including combination therapies, CAR T-cell therapy, and tumor vaccines.
- To provide insights into the advantages, limitations, and future research directions for HCC immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of leading ICIs in clinical practice.
- Analysis of ICIs in phase 1-3 trials (monotherapy and combination).
- Summary of alternative strategies like CAR T-cell therapy and tumor vaccines.
Main Results:
- Several immunotherapeutic agents and combinations are approved for advanced or recurrent HCC.
- Combination therapy shows promise as a potential treatment strategy.
- Ongoing research focuses on novel immunotherapeutic approaches.
Conclusions:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly vital in HCC management.
- Alternative strategies and combination therapies offer new avenues for treating HCC.
- Further research is needed to optimize these immunotherapies for improved efficacy and reduced limitations.
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