Imatinib treatment for patients with advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter phase II trial

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide with limited treatment options in advanced stages. The antitumor activity of systemic chemotherapies in patients with HCC has been disappointing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in patients with advanced HCC. Methods: Patients with stage III and IVa/b HCCs without surgical and/or loco ablative therapeutic options and preserved liver function (CPC A/B) were eligible. The patients were treated with 400mg imatinib daily for 12 months. Response was assessed by…