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Abstract Details
An Increase in Lesion Density can Predict Lower Local Recurrence after Transarterial Chemoembolization in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Imai N, Katano Y, Kuzuya T, Honda T, Hayashi K, Ishigami M, Itoh A, Hirooka Y, Goto H. Hepatogastroenterology. 2013 Feb 20;60(127). doi: 10.5754/hge121229. [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Background/Aims: The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with lower, local recurrence rates after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Methodology: From 2005 to 2012, 93 consecutive patients with 125 nodules were included in this study. Patients were included if they had fewer than 3 hypervascular tumors, smaller than 4cm in diameter. Patients were excluded if they had a lack of iodized oil accumulation in target nodules on non-enhanced computed tomography (CT) immediately after TACE treatment. Mean lesion density in Hounsfield units (HU) was measured on non-enhanced CT imaging immediately after and 1 week after TACE. Results: The median lesion density on CT was 625HU (range 138-1911) immediately after and 431HU (range 89-2145) 1 week after TACE. Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazard model revealed that an increase in lesion density (hazard ratio (HR), 0.18; p=0.002), des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin concentration (HR, 2.21; p=0.01), and lesion density on CT 1 week after TACE (HR, 0.46; p=0.02) were significant independent predictors associated with the lower, local recurrence rate after TACE treatment. Conclusions: In HCC without increased lesion density 1 week after TACE, it is possible to consider alternative or adjuvant treatments.