Sorafenib and radiation therapy for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
BACKGROUND
Treatment options for advanced hepatocellular cancer (HCC) are limited. Sorafenib, an orally active multi-kinase inhibitor, is the only systemic agent with a survival benefit in randomized studies. However, the gain in survival is modest and new treatment strategies are needed.


METHODS
We report two cases of advanced HCC treated with a combination of sorafenib and radiation therapy. Impressive and sustained clinical and radiological responses were seen. Treatment was well-tolerated in both cases with no unexpected toxicities reported.


CONCLUSIONS
There is sound rationale for the combination of sorafenib and radiation therapy for treatment of HCC. These two cases suggest both feasibility and efficacy of this combination, in selected patients. Prospective studies addressing this combination are ongoing.
Horgan
Anne M
AM
Medical Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, M5G 2C4, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Dawson
Laura A
LA
Swaminath
Anand
A
Knox
Jennifer J
JJ
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001557:Benzenesulfonates / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000628:therapy*; D059248:Chemoradiotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009536:Niacinamide / Q000031:analogs & derivatives; D010671:Phenylurea Compounds; D011725:Pyridines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000077157:Sorafenib
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001557:Benzenesulfonates; D010671:Phenylurea Compounds; D011725:Pyridines; D009536:Niacinamide; D000077157:Sorafenib