Evaluation of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy for small primary hepatocellular carcinoma.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the therapeutic effect of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) on small hepatocellular carcinoma.


METHODS
Between May 1998 and Dec 2002, 32 patients with small primary hepatocellular carcinoma underwent 3D-CRT (mean total dose of 55 Gy, ranging from 48 to 63 Gy, given in 6 to 9 fractions completed within 12 to 18 d). The clinical target volumes (CTVs) were covered with 100% isodose curve, using 6 MV X-ray. CT studies before and during a follow-up period of 3 years after 3D-CRT were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effects, with alpha-feto-protein (AFP) levels also tested.


RESULTS
Completed remission of the tumor occurred in 87.5% (28/32) of the cases, and partial remission (PR) was obtained in 12.5% (4/32) of the cases after one year. The 1-year survival rate at stage III was 100%, and 2- and 3-year survival rates were both 97%, with death occurring only in one case because of cerebral hemorrhage. AFP levels of these patients with hepatocellular carcinoma were all significantly decreased (P=0.025).


CONCLUSIONS
3D-CRT is an effective method in the treatment of patients with small primary hepatocellular carcinoma.
Chen
Long-hua
LH
Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanfang Hospital, First Military Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
Guan
Jian
J
D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D008297:Male; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D020266:Radiotherapy, Conformal; D016896:Treatment Outcome