Locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma: The current status and future perspectives

United European Gastroenterol J. 2024 Mar;12(2):226-239. doi: 10.1002/ueg2.12554. Epub 2024 Feb 19.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Locoregional therapies (LRTs) play a crucial role in HCC management and are selectively adopted in real-world practice across various stages. Choosing the best form of LRTs depends on technical aspects, patient clinical status and tumour characteristics. Previous studies have consistently highlighted the efficacy of combining LRTs with molecular targeted agents in HCC treatment. Recent studies propose that integrating LRTs with immune checkpoint inhibitors and molecular targeted agents could provide substantial therapeutic benefits, a notion underpinned by both basic and clinical evidence. This review summarised the current landscape of LRTs in HCC and discussed the anticipated outcomes of combinations with immunotherapy regimens.

Keywords: combined modality therapy; hepatocellular carcinoma; immune checkpoint inhibitors; locoregional therapy; molecular targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Liver Neoplasms*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents