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Systemic Therapy for Biliary and Liver Neoplasms: Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy
Ronan McLaughlin1, Harry Harvey1, Jennifer J Knox2
1Department of Medical Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 700 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G, Canada.
Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America
|June 17, 2026
Summary
Liver and biliary tract cancers are challenging malignancies. Systemic therapy has evolved from chemotherapy to targeted agents, immunotherapies, and combination regimens for better treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Liver and biliary tract cancers pose significant therapeutic challenges with increasing global incidence.
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer, often linked to cirrhosis.
- Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) originate from the biliary epithelium and exhibit aggressive behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of systemic therapy for liver and biliary tract cancers.
- To highlight the shift towards novel therapeutic strategies beyond traditional chemotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of systemic therapy advancements in liver and biliary tract cancers over the past decade.
- Analysis of current therapeutic landscape including targeted agents, immunotherapies, and combination regimens.
Main Results:
- Systemic therapy has significantly evolved, moving away from less effective cytotoxic chemotherapy.
- A diverse therapeutic landscape now includes molecularly targeted agents, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and antiangiogenic therapy.
- Combination regimens are increasingly utilized for improved efficacy.
Conclusions:
- The treatment paradigm for liver and biliary tract cancers has transformed.
- Novel systemic therapies offer improved options for patients with these challenging malignancies.
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