The analysis of the efficacy and safety of combined transarterial chemoembolization with sorafenib in patients with large hepatocellular carcinoma

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined transarterial chemoembolization with sorafenib in patients with large hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods 79 patients with large HCC (larger than 10 cm in diameter) were enrolled from July 2008 to June 2012 for this retrospective study.24 patients undertaken TACE combined with sorafenib as T+S group.35 patients undertaken TACE alone as T group, and other 20 patients treated with sorafenib alone as S group. Results The median survival time was 15 months in T+S group,10 months in T group,and 5 months in S group, respectively (P=0.000).The median time of tumor progress was 6 months,3 months and 2.5 months, respectively (P=0.000).The most common adverse events related to sorafenib in group T+S group and S group alone were hand foot skin reaction, diarrhea and alopecia.The incidence rate of adverse events related to sorafenib was no significant difference between two groups.There was no 4 or more grade adverse event occurred in each group.The most common complications related to interventional treatment in group T+S group and T group alone were mild jaundice, ascites, inguinal region hematoma.The incidence rate of complications related to interventional treatment was no significant difference between two groups. Conclusion The combination of TACE and sorafenib in patients with large HCC is well tolerated and safe, which is available to delay tumor progression and prolong survival. Key words: Carcinoma, hepatocellular; Drug therapy, combination; Embolism