Should Radiation-Based Therapy Be Considered in All Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
摘要
Radiation therapy, while not a first-line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is increasingly being utilized in managing the growing number of HCC cases, especially in those unable to undergo resection. Radiation’s role has evolved due to advancements in technology and a deeper understanding of the interplay between radiation and liver biological. Precision techniques like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and proton therapy allow for highly targeted delivery of radiation, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue and enhancing treatment efficacy. These approaches are particularly beneficial for patients with localized HCC who are ineligible for surgical resection or liver transplantation. Radiation therapy is also explored in combination with other modalities, such as systemic therapies or transarterial chemoembolization, to improve outcomes. As research progresses, radiation therapy’s integration into HCC treatment paradigms continues to expand, offering hope for improved control and survival rates in affected patients.