The Role of Low Molecular Weight Heparins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Summary

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major tumor type worldwide, especially in China as the sequence of hepatitis B and liver cirrhosis. Activation of the coagulation system occurs commonly in patients with malignancy. Several studies have suggested that anticoagulant therapy may improve survival in patients with malignancy. The low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) lend themselves to such studies because of their effects in experimental models of malignancy and the relative ease of administration compared with unfractionated heparin. The purpose of the present RCT was to determine whether addition of LMWH to transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) would improve HCC patient outcome compared with TACE alone.

Timeline

Start

2008-12

Primary completion

2011-08

Completion

2011-10

Drugs

Indications