Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Is the addition of subcutaneous interferon-α-2b beneficial?

Abstract

Aim: We previously reported the benefits of hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) using cisplatin (CDDP), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) [low-dose FP], and leucovorin/isovorin for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we investigated the efficacy of combination therapy with HAIC and subcutaneous interferon (IFN)-α-2b in patients with advanced HCC. Methods: Of the 48 patients, 31 received low-dose FP with leucovorin/ isovorin (HAIC group) and 17 received combination therapy comprising low-dose FP with isovorin and subcutaneous IFN-α-2b (combination group). Prognostic factors were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses of the patient and the disease characteristics. Results: There were no significant differences in the response rate (patients with complete or partial response/all patients; P = 0.736) and survival (P = 0.399) between both groups. Univariate analysis revealed that IFN therapy was not a significant prognostic factor. Multivariate analysis showed 3 variables, namely, Child-Pugh score (P = 0.010), α-fetoprotein level (P = 0.0047), and additional therapy (P = 0.002), to be significant prognostic factors. Conclusions: We considered that combination therapy with HAIC and subcutaneous interferon (IFN)-α-2b was not beneficial for advanced HCC. © 2009 The Japan Society of Hepatology.