Characteristics of satellite nodules of hepatocellular carcinoma and treatment strategy of interventional radiology / 第三军医大学学报

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the characteristics of satellite nodules of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the treatment methods by transcatheter hepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Methods Forty one cases of massive HCC and single nodular HCC proved by pathology underwent the examination of spiral CT and angiography for observing the characteristics of satellite nodules. All the patients were treated by TACE and the results were analyzed. Results The satellite nodules were found in 17 out of 41 cases by CT and/or angiology of which 10 were hypervascular and 7 hypovascular. The satellite nodules located within 1 cm from the margin of the main HCC in 11 out of 17 cases. In the treatment of TACE, the tip of catheter was located on the proximal end of feeding artery of tumor so that the embolization area included the area of satellite nodules. After 6-19 months follow up, 5 patients were complete response (CR) and partial response (PR) in 17 cases but no progressive patients were found. Conclusion The satellite nodules extensively exist in HCC and can be effectively treated using reasonable methods.