A Remarkable Cancer Care Success Story at Aster Aadhar Hospital
Aster Aadhar Hospital successfully treated a challenging case of synchronous dual malignancy in a 77-year-old female patient diagnosed with both Right Breast Cancer and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) of the liver. The patient was also a known case of liver cirrhosis, making treatment planning highly complex and demanding a multidisciplinary approach.
The patient initially presented with a palpable right breast lump and a liver tumor involving segments V and VII. Investigations revealed Carcinoma In Situ of the right breast (ER Positive, PR Positive) and Hepatocellular Carcinoma measuring 7 cm in size with an Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) level of 2000 ng/ml.
The patient first underwent Breast Conservation Surgery (BCT) for breast cancer. For the liver tumor, Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) was performed, resulting in a near-complete response and significant reduction in tumor size. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) was initially planned; however, due to persistently low blood counts (WBC around 2000/mm³ and platelet count between 40,000–45,000/mm³), the procedure was considered high risk and could not be performed.
Subsequently, the AFP level increased to 800 ng/ml, indicating active disease. The patient was referred to the Radiation Oncology team at Aster Aadhar Hospital for advanced liver-directed treatment. After detailed evaluation, Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) was planned and delivered with high precision.
The liver lesion was treated with SBRT using a total dose of 42 Gy in 6 fractions, achieving a Biologically Effective Dose (BED) of 115 Gy. Advanced treatment planning techniques ensured maximum tumor control while protecting healthy liver tissue and nearby critical structures. Treatment was delivered on alternate days between 15 July 2021 and 27 July 2021. Following successful liver treatment, the patient also received adjuvant radiation therapy to the breast with a dose of 40 Gy in 15 fractions.
The patient tolerated both treatments exceptionally well without significant complications. Follow-up evaluations demonstrated an excellent response, with AFP levels returning to the normal range and remaining controlled until March 2023. Imaging studies showed sustained local control of the liver tumor with no evidence of disease progression.
This case highlights the expertise of Aster Aadhar Hospital's multidisciplinary cancer team, combining Surgical Oncology, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Oncology, Medical Oncology, and Hepatology to deliver personalized and advanced cancer care. The successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of SBRT as a safe and powerful treatment option for liver cancer patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or ablation procedures.
Aster Aadhar Hospital continues to provide world-class cancer care through cutting-edge technology, evidence-based treatments, and a patient-centered approach, helping patients overcome even the most complex cancer challenges.
