Abstract

Although transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been reported to have anti-tumor effects in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), optimal time schedules and the appropriate follow-up methods have not been determined yet. We experienced a 57-year-old male who underwent radiofrequency ablation(RFA) therapy due to marginal and viable HCC on CT scan after TACE, despite of negative tumor staining on angiography. The patient did not show any evidence of tumor recurrence on CT scan until five months after RFA, However, follow-up CT scan obtained eight months after RFA showed newly developed a massive recurrent tumor with tumor thrombosis in the right portal vein around the previously treated HCC.

• Keywords: Hepatocellular carcinoma;Early recurrence