| Theme |
Algorithm for Diagnosis and Treatment of Liver Cancer |
| Title |
Molecular Target Drug for Hepatocellular Carcinoma |
| Author |
Tatsuya Yamashita |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Hospital |
| Author |
Kuniaki Arai |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Hospital |
| Author |
Shuichi Kaneko |
Department of Gastroenterology, Kanazawa University Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
One advance in recent years concerning the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma is the implementation of clinical evidence related to the molecular target drug, sorafenib for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Although sorafenib exhibits minor anti-tumor effects, as indicated by tumor shrinkage, it has inhibitory effects on tumor development, showing it to be the first drug shown to extend survival times for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. Because this drug's side effects are different than those of traditional cytotoxic drugs, is necessary to understand its side effects and treatment options. More appropriate use of sorafenib is recommended in Japan because of serious adverse events, including deaths. A great number of clinical trials concerning molecular target drugs against hepatocellular carcinoma are underway. |