Valerie JW Tong*, Vishal G Shelat, Yew Kuo Chao
Tong et al. J Clin Tansl Res 2021; 7(6):7
Published online: November 6, 2021
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) management has evolved over the past two decades, with the development of newer treatment modalities. While various options are available, unmet needs are reflected through the mixed treatment outcome for intermediate-stage HCC. As HCC is radiosensitive, radiation therapies have a significant role in management. Radiation therapies offer local control in unresectable lesions and in patients who are not surgical candidates, palliation in metastatic disease, and a bridge to resection and transplantation in selected patients. Advancements in radiotherapy modalities offer improved dose planning and targeted delivery, allowing for better tumor response and safer dose escalations while minimizing the risks of radiation-induced liver damage (RILD). Radiotherapy modalities are broadly classified into external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT). With emerging modalities, radiotherapy plays a complementary role in the multidisciplinary care of HCC patients.
Aim: We aim to provide an overview of the role and clinical application of radiation therapies in HCC management.
Relevance for patients: The continuous evolution of radiotherapy techniques allows for improved therapeutic outcomes while mitigating unwanted adverse effects, making it an attractive modality in HCC management. Rigorous clinical studies, quality research and comprehensive datasets will further its application in the current era of evidence-based practice in Medicine.
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18053/jctres.07.202106.007
Author affiliation
1. Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
2. Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433
3. Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433
*Corresponding author
Tong Jia Wei Valerie
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore
Tel: +65 9631 1252
Email: valerietong1998@gmail.com
Handling editor:
Michal Heger
Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
Department of Pharmaceutics, Jiaxing University Medical College, Zhejiang, China
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