A comparative study of effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy on metastatic liver carcinoma

Comparative effects of external beam radiotherapy and systematic chemotherapy on metastatic liver carcinoma were studied in the Department of Radiology, S.P. Medical College and Associated Group of Hospitals, Bikaner. A total of 30 cases divided into two groups of 15 each were studied. Presence of hepatic metastasis was confirmed by liver scan and liver biopsy. Radiotherapy was given by telecobalt, while chemotherapy was selected according to primary site. Response to therapy was noted on three major criteria - subjective, objective and no response. Side effects in both groups were recorded. Follow-up was done for six months at monthly intervals. In conclusion it was noted that liver scan and LFT are fairly reliable in detecting hepatic metastases. Neither radiotherapy nor chemotherapy is effective in prolonging the survival significantly but the quality of remaining life improves. (author). 7 refs., 4 tables