Positive HCC data for Y-90 radioembolization

Radioembolization with Yttrium-90 (Y-90) glass microspheres is a safe and effective treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular  carcinoma with or without portal vein thrombosis, according to data  presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the  Study of the Liver in Copenhagen, Denmark.

According to the researchers, findings from the open-label Phase II  study create the foundation for a trial comparing and combining  radioembolization with Germany-based Bayer Healthcare's multi-targeted  kinase inhibitor Nexavar (sorafenib; licensed from Onyx). This would  represent a new treatment option for sufferers of advanced HCC who  currently have limited therapeutic choices.

HCC is a primary malignancy of the liver cells, generally leading to  death within six to 20 months. It is currently one of the most common  worldwide causes of cancer death. Locoregional treatment of HCC is  considered the most effective palliative therapeutic approach. However,  advanced tumor stages including portal vein thrombosis, diffuse  multifocal liver infiltration and large tumour burden are obstacles for  conventional local treatments. Due to the possibility of unselective  application, radioembolization with Yttrium-90 glass microspheres may  allow effective local ablative therapy even in patients with  intra-hepatic advanced HCC.