Transarterial chemoembolization in the treatment of patients with unresectable cholangiocarcinoma: Results and prognostic factors governing treatment success

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with four chemotherapeutic protocols in terms of local tumor control and survival of patients with unresectable cholangiocarcinoma (CCC) and to identify the prognostic factors governing treatment success. In the single-centre study, 115 patients (mean ages = 60.4 years) with unresectable CCC were repeatedly treated with TACE. In total, 819 chemoembolization sessions were performed in 4 week intervals with a mean of 7.1 (range, 3-30) sessions per patient. The chemotherapeutic used was Mitomycin C only in 20.9% of patients, Gemcitabine only in 7%, Mitomycin C with Gemcitabine in 47% and combination of Gemcitabine, Mitomycin C and Cisplatin in 25.1%. Local tumor response was evaluated by MRI according to RECIST. Survival data were calculated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Prognostic factors for patient's survival were evaluated using log-rank-test. The local tumor controls were: partial response 8.7%, stable disease 57.4% and progressive disease 33.9% of patients. The median and mean survival times from the start of TACE were 13 and 20.8 months. Survival rate from the start of TACE was 52% after 1-year, 29% after 2-years and 10% after 3-years. Initial tumor response, high tumor vascularity and Child-Pugh class A were statistically significant factors for patient's survival. No statistically significant difference between patients treated with different chemotherapy protocols was noted. In conclusion, TACE is a palliative and safe treatment option for patients with unresectable CCC. Child Pugh class B, tumor hypovascularity and initially progressive disease were poor prognostic factors for patient survival. Copyright © 2011 UICC.