Genetic Tests Predict Liver Tumor Recurrence after Transplant

An analysis of 69 patients transplanted for liver cancer at the University of Pittsburgh (PA, USA) has found that some patients denied transplantation today because they meet criteria for advanced disease might actually be good candidates for transplantation and enjoy tumor-free long-tem survival. The finding was reported at Transplant 2001 in Chicago (IL, USA).

Six of the patients followed--four of whom were transplanted 12 years ago--who would have been denied under today's guidelines were found to have genetic characteristics that would predict a more benign course than the classic staging would suggest. All are alive and well with no recurrence of their cancers despite that fact that at the time of transplantation they had very large tumors or multiple tumors in both lobes of the liver. After using tests to analyze the presence and mutations of tumor genes, Dr. Andy Bonham, assistant professor of surgery, reported that these patients' tumors were actually distinct early stage and non-aggressive. The technique was able to identify the six patients out of 39 classified as stage IV.

Overall, the analysis of the 69 patients found that patients with more genetic mutations in their tumors were more likely to have recurrence and short-term survival. Fewer mutations, even in situations with several tumors, corresponded with less of a chance of recurrence and longer survival. Seventeen of the 69 are still alive. Performing such tests
on patients as they are being evaluated for transplantation could help guide treatment strategies, says Dr. Bonham.




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