The efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization combined with intensity-modulated radiation therapy in the treatment of intermediate and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common malignant tumor with limited treatment options, especially for patients in the middle and late stages. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) are important methods for treating hepatocellular carcinoma, but their combined efficacy has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of TACE combined with IMRT in patients with intermediate and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

Method

This study included 170 hepatocellular carcinoma patients, of whom 85 received TACE treatment (control group) and 85 received TACE combined with IMRT treatment (observation group). Evaluate the impact of two treatment methods on tumor response and liver function indicators. Use multiple logistic regression analysis to evaluate the impact of intervention methods and other factors on patient survival status, and use the Andersson model to analyze the interaction between intervention methods and other factors.

Result

After treatment, the observation group showed significantly higher rates of complete remission, partial remission, and stable progressive disease compared to the control group. The total bilirubin, albumin, prothrombin time, and alpha fetoprotein levels in the observation group were significantly better than those in the control group at 2, 4, and 6 months after treatment (P values < 0.05). The incidence of adverse events in the observation group increased compared to the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Survival analysis showed that the survival rate and progression free survival rate of the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group. Intervention methods, age, tumor progression, and Child Pugh score all have a significant impact on the survival status of patients. There is an antagonistic effect between intervention methods, tumor progression, and Child Pugh score.

Conclusion

TACE combined with IMRT has a good therapeutic effect on hepatocellular carcinoma, which can improve liver function and significantly improve patient survival rate with high safety. The interaction between intervention methods, tumor progression, and liver function scores has a significant impact on survival status. Combination therapy can be an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma.