Pilot Study of Combined Immunotherapy and Stereotactic Body Radiation to Shrink Unresectable Liver Cancer for Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Hepatocellular carcinoma HCC is a common and deadly cancer worldwide, especially in Asia where hepatitis B is widespread. Many patients are diagnosed at stages where surgery is not possible, and current curative treatments like surgery, radiofrequency ablation, or liver transplant only help about 30% of patients. This trial aims to explore a new combined approach using immunotherapy and targeted radiation to shrink tumors, potentially making inoperable HCC operable and improving survival chances. The study involves treating participants first with Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy SBRT, a precise form of external radiation aimed directly at the tumor. This is followed by immunotherapy drugs selected by oncologists. Treatment may continue for up to two years unless the disease improves enough for surgery, the treatment stops working, or side effects become unacceptable. The main goal is to see how many patients can have their tumors downstaged to be eligible for surgery. Participants will be monitored throughout the study to assess tumor response and treatment effects. Researchers will measure the rate of tumor downstaging at the time patients become eligible for surgery. The study includes regular assessments using imaging and clinical evaluations to track progress. The total study duration may last up to two years or until surgery is possible. Safety and treatment tolerability will also be closely followed during this period.

Downstaging Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Resectable Disease With Combined Immunotherapy and Stereotactic Beamed Radiotherapy: a Pilot Study