Antibiotic prophylaxis in transarterial chemoembolization of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Background and study aims: Transarterial chemoembolization remains a common treatment option in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. However, protocols for pre- and post-procedure care and the role of antibiotic prophylaxis have not been evaluated. The aim of this work was to compare 3 different groups of prophylactic antibiotics in patients undergoing chemoembolization and to compare the efficacy of intravenous versus oral route.

Patients and methods: 180 hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing transarterial chemoembolization were selected. Patients were classified into 3 groups; Group 1: 60 patients; 30 received intravenous ceftriaxone, and 30 received oral cefixime. Group 2: 60 patients; 30 patients received intravenous levofloxacin and 30 received oral levofloxacin. Group 3: 60 patients; 30 received intravenous ciprofloxacin and 30 received oral ciprofloxacin. All antibiotics were given one day before intervention and for 4 days afterwards. Complete blood count, C-reactive protein, liver and renal function tests were assessed 1 and 5 days and then 1 month after the procedure.

Results: The ciprofloxacin group gave better results than the other 2 groups regarding total and differential leucocytic count and C-reactive protein level. No significant difference was found between oral and intravenous routes among the 3 groups. None of the studied patients developed infections or liver abscess after chemoembolization.

Conclusion: Third generation cephalosporin, levofloxacin or ciprofloxacin all are effective as prophylaxis against post-chemoembolization infections. No significant difference between oral and intravenous administration among the 3 groups. Oral ciprofloxacin is an effective, safe and relatively inexpensive prophylaxis regimen.

Keywords: HCC; Prophylactic antibiotics; Transarterial chemoembolization.