Abstract

In patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), tumor thrombus in inferior vena cava (IVC) and right atrium (RA) are not uncommon findings and are usually associated with extremely poor outcome. Although aggressive surgical interventions such as extracorporeal circulation and tumor excision have been performed, the reported results were still unsatisfactory. Herein, we report the favorable result of combined treatment with radiation therapy and transarterial chemoembolization in a patient with advanced HCC with extensive tumor thrombus through the IVC into the RA. In conclusion, noninvasive combined modalities, such as transarterial chemoembolization and radiation therapy may sometimes provide effective palliation for patients with far advanced HCC with IVC/RA tumor thrombus and who are not candidates for alternative treatment options.

• Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma;Tumor thrombus;Right atrium;Inferior vena cava