Liver transplantation for organ failure following multiple locoregional treatments for breast cancer metastasis.

Abstract

Patients with nonresectable breast cancer liver metastasis (BCLM) face a dismal prognosis. Despite liver transplantation (LT) for metastatic liver tumors having recently shown good results, BCLM represents an absolute contraindication. This study aimed to investigate the potential for long-term survival after LT for BCLMs in a patient experiencing end-stage liver disease, following multiple oncologic treatments. In July 2019, we performed a deceased donor LT on a 41-year-old female with BCLM controlled with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 targeted therapy, who developed liver failure following multiple locoregional liver-directed treatments. The primary tumor was treated with surgical resection and adjuvant chemoradiation in 2000. The procedure was performed under a protocol approved by the local ethical committee, and by the Italian National Transplant Center. A 12-month treatment with trastuzumab was performed immediately after LT. Immunosuppression following transplantation was undertaken without steroids, and with everolimus. The patient completed 12 months of follow-up without recurrence. Trastuzumab was then withdrawn. Fifteen months after LT, a liver recurrence occurred that was treated with chemotherapy. In October 2021, she developed 2 brain lesions that were treated with stereotactic radiation. The patient is still alive, with a positron emission tomography/computed tomography performed in January 2024 showing no disease. LT for this patient with BCLM of extreme selectivity showed a good clinical outcome. Perioperative systemic treatment and tumor control are necessary. A specific protocol should be discussed within a multidisciplinary team, and with local and national authorities. Even if tumor recurrence occurs, multimodal therapy can control the disease.