Published online Jun 16, 2017. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v5.i6.238
Peer-review started: January 16, 2017
First decision: March 28, 2017
Revised: March 30, 2017
Accepted: April 18, 2017
Article in press: April 19, 2017
Published online: June 16, 2017
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers and the third highest cause of cancer-associated mortality worldwide. The treatment of HCC is complicated by its variable biological behavior and the frequent coexistence of chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. To date, multiple treatment modalities have been developed according to the stage of the tumor and the hepatic functional reserve, including transarterial treatments such as transarterial chemoembolization, transarterial oily chemoembolization (TOCE), and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). We conducted a phase I and II study of the combination therapy with double platinum agents, miriplatin and cisplatin, and confirmed its safety and efficacy. Here, we describe two cases of unresectable HCC who were successfully treated by miriplatin-TOCE/cisplatin-HAIC combination therapy, resulting in complete responses with no significant adverse events. This report will provide that the combination therapy can be the therapeutic option for HCC patients in the advanced stage.
Core tip: To date, multiple treatment modalities of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) exist; however, only liver transplantation or surgical resection is curative. Hepatic resection remains the most frequently performed treatment modality, but curative resection cases are limited. Therefore, palliative treatment options are necessary, including transarterial chemoembolization, transarterial oily chemoembolization (TOCE), and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). We conducted a clinical trial of combination therapy with miriplatin-TOCE and cisplatin-HAIC and demonstrated its safety and efficacy for patients with unresectable HCC. Here, we presented two cases who showed good response after the several sessions of the combination therapy.