The Liver in Oncology

Clin Liver Dis. 2017 Nov;21(4):697-707. doi: 10.1016/j.cld.2017.06.003. Epub 2017 Jul 26.

Abstract

Gastroenterologists and hepatologists will encounter oncology patients who develop abnormal liver tests, patients with hepatic malignancies, and patients with acute and chronic liver disease who require chemotherapy or immediate evaluation. Chemotherapy can cause liver injury owing to toxic effects or idiosyncratic reactions. Immune checkpoint inhibitors may be associated with autoimmune-mediated liver toxicities. Venoocclusive disease requires immediate evaluation. Nodular regenerative hyperplasia is a chronic progressive disorder. Screening and prophylaxis for reactivation of hepatitis B is important to minimize complications in patients receiving chemotherapy. Patients with metastatic lesions can undergo resection or ablation. Hepatic injury may occur in those receiving radiation-based therapies.

Keywords: Autoimmune hepatitis; Drug-induced liver injury; Hepatitis B reactivation; Nodular regenerative hyperplasia; Radiation toxicity; Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome; Venooclusive liver disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury / etiology*
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease / etiology*
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis B, Chronic / etiology*
  • Hepatitis, Autoimmune / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hyperplasia
  • Liver
  • Liver Diseases / etiology
  • Medical Oncology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Virus Activation

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents