Effect of Irinotecan Combined with Cetuximab on Liver Function in Patients with Advanced Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastases

Aim: To explore the effect of irinotecan combined with cetuximab on liver function of advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases. Methods: A total of 97 advanced colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases admitted to our hospital from August 2008 to August 2011 were treated with irinotecan combined with cetuximab. Changes of tumor markers, liver metastasis diameter, and liver function were observed, and the response rate was analyzed. Results: After the treatment, carcinoembryonic antigen, carbohydrate antigen 19-9, prothrombin time, albumin, and metastasis diameter significantly decreased ( P P Conclusion: Although the liver function tests show that the damage is caused by irinotecan combined with cetuximab, the normal cells recover and therefore liver function returns to near baseline. The data from this trial suggests that the combination treatment with irinotecan and cetuximab for colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases is safe and effective, resulting in improved prognosis and quality of life.