Prognostic significance of albumin-bilirubin score in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing combined immunotherapy and radiotherapy.

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to explore the prognostic value of albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) scores in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with combined immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS

Patients with unresectable HCC receiving combined ICI and RT (July 2018 to February 2021) were retrospectively enrolled and analysed. Cox regression modelling was implemented to identify prognostic factors. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Survival was compared using log-rank tests.

RESULTS

A total of 38 patients were enrolled. The median follow-up was 16.5 months (range: 6.7-29.9). The objective response rate (ORR) was 28.9%, including complete response in three (7.9%) patients. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.6 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.2-8.0), and the median overall survival (OS) was 12.9 months (95% CI: 8.3-17.6). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, ALBI score and age were identified as independent prognostic factors for PFS and OS. Patients with grade 1 ALBI scores who were ≥53 years of age (the low-risk group) had statistically significantly higher ORRs (50.0% vs. 13.6%) and prolonged median PFS (15.3 vs. 2.7 months) and OS (not reached vs. 10.1 months). Grade 3 haematological toxicities and/or liver function abnormalities occurred in 15 (39.5%) patients; treatment was not interrupted. No grade 4 or higher side effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Combined ICI and RT is an effective modality for treating unresectable HCC with moderate side effects. ALBI scores merits consideration when applying this combined treatment modality. These results should be validated within large cohort studies.