Repeated therapeutic embolization with systemic chemotherapy for hepatic metastases from α-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer

Abstract

α-Fetoprotein (AFP)-producing gastric cancer is rare, characterized by high malignant potential (high proliferative activity, lack of apoptosis, and rich neovascularization), and associated with a dismal prognosis when it metastasizes to the liver. We present here a case of metastatic α-fetoprotein-producing gastric cancer to the liver in a 72-year-old man who was treated with repeated hepatic transarterial embolization (TAE) in combination with systemic chemotherapy. The tumor metastasis controlling effects seen may suggest a therapeutic option in these cases.