Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

Purpose of Review: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rising cause of mortality and morbidity, and although surgical resection is the preferred curative local therapy, < 30% of patients are candidates at diagnosis. This review discusses SBRT as an option in a variety of clinical scenarios. Recent Findings: Multiple retrospective and prospective studies demonstrate that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is an effective bridge for transplant candidates and local therapy for patients with inoperable early-, intermediate-, or advanced-stage disease. SBRT is associated with excellent local control, and it is well-tolerated despite study cohorts enriched with patients who failed prior therapies and had poor baseline liver function. Summary: Additional randomized control trials are needed to determine the ideal treatment regimen and patient selection for SBRT.