Radiation therapy for bone metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma

Background The efficacy of radiation therapy for bone metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma was examined retrospectively. Methods The effect of radiation therapy for pain and paresis was evaluated in 38 patients who received planned radiation therapy with the total dose ranging from 26 to 60 Gy. The percentage regression of 14 metastatic bone lesions was calculated by using computed tomography: percentage regression=(pre-radiation therapy tumor volume—postradiation therapy tumor volume)/pre-radiation therapy tumor volume]×100. Results The 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival rates of the 38 patients from the start of the radiation therapy were 30% 18%, and 9.0% respectively. The median survival period was 172 days. Pain relief was obtained in 91% of 44 painful bone metastases. No correlation was observed between the percentage regression and the tumor size. Complete regression of bone metastasis was noted in 6 of 14 patients who could be evaluated with computed tomography. Three of the 6 paiients with complete response have survived for more than 6 years after radiation therapy. Conclusion Radiation therapy is an effective method for palliation of bone metastasis. Although the prognosis of most patients with bone metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma is poor, some attain longterm survival after treatment.