Early Response Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Transarterial Chemoembolization Using Triphasic Computed Tomography
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51985/Keywords:
Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Contrast Media; Liver Function Tests; Reproducibility of Results; Tomography, X-Ray ComputedAbstract
Objective: To aim of this study was to evaluate the early tumor response of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) using triphasic computed tomography (CT).
Study Design and Setting: This was a retrospective study conducted at Indus Hospital & Health Network, Karachi. Methodology: A total of 102 patients were included for six months study between 1st February 2025 and 31st July 2025. Tumor response was assessed 6 weeks post-TACE according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (mRECIST) and categorized as complete response (CR), partial response (PR), stable disease (SD), or progressive disease (PD). The Chi-square test was applied to test statistical significance of differences across response categories, with a pvalue of <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: CR was observed in 36% and PR in 32% of patients, giving an overall response rate of 68%. SD was seen in 20% and PD in 12%. Triphasic CT demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy of 88%, with sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 90%. Inter-rater agreement was substantial (ê = 0.82, p < 0.001). Patients with Child-Pugh class A liver function showed higher response rates (76%) compared to Child-Pugh class B (50%), though this was not statistically significant (p = 0.09). Conclusion: Triphasic CT is a reliable and reproducible imaging modality for early assessment of tumor response following TACE in HCC. It provides high diagnostic accuracy and can guide treatment decisions.
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