Outcome after hepatic resection for isolated non-colorectal, non-neuroendocrine liver metastases in 100 patients - the role of the embryologic origin of the primary tumor.

backgroundThe indication for hepatic resection (HR) in patients suffering from liver metastases (LM) other than colorectal and neuroendocrine tumors is one focus of current multidisciplinary, oncologic considerations. This study retrospectively analyzes outcome after HR for non-colorectal, non-neuroendocrine (NCNNE) LM in the absence of distant or extrahepatic metastases.

methodsWe included 100 consecutive patients undergoing HR for isolated NCNNE LM from a prospective database in our institution, including postoperative follow-up. Primary tumors were of mesodermal origin in 44%, of ectodermal origin in 29% and of entodermal origin in 27%. Survival analysis was performed by univariate and multivariable methods. Mean follow-up after hepatic surgery was 3.6 years (0.25-16).

resultsMedian age at the time of HR was 59.5 years. Kaplan-Meier-estimated survival after liver resection was 56.8%, 34.3% and 24.5% after 5, 10 and 15 years, respectively. Univariate analysis after HR revealed residual disease (hepatic or primary; p = 0.02), female gender (p = 0.013), entodermal origin (p = 0.009) and early onset of metastatic disease (≤24 months, p = 0.002), as negative prognostic factors. Multivariable survival analysis confirmed residual disease, female gender, entodermal embryologic origin and early onset of metastatic disease (≤24 months) as independent negative prognostic factors.

conclusionOverall outcome after HR of NCNNE LM results in acceptable long-term outcome. Although individual decision-making today mostly relies on clinical experience for this type of disease, risk factors derived from the embryologic origin of the tumor might help in patient selection.