Recent advancements in management for noncolorectal, nonneuroendocrine hepatic metastases

Abstract

Background: Owing to the heterogeneity of underlying primary tumors, noncolorectal, nonneuroendocrine metastases to the liver (NCNNMLs), although relatively rare, pose major challenges to treatment and long-term management. Despite being considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer liver metastases, the role of surgical resection for NCNNML remains controversial. Furthermore, advancements in locoregional treatment modalities, such as ablation and various chemotherapeutic modalities, have contributed to the treatment of patients with NCNNML.

Methods: This was a comprehensive review of literature that used Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science, which were accessed between 2014 and 2024.

Results: NCNNMLs are rare tumor entities with varied presentation and outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach, which includes chemotherapy, surgery, and interventional radiologic techniques, can be implemented with good results.

Conclusion: Given the complex nature of NCNNML, its management should be highly individualized and multidisciplinary. Locoregional treatments, such as surgical resection and/or ablation, may be more appropriate for select patients and should be offered as a viable therapeutic option for a subset of individuals.

Keywords: Gastric cancer; Hepatic metastases; Liver resection; Liver transplant; Melanoma.