Autologous TIL Infusion Plus Anti-PD-1 Therapy to Cure Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following Palliative Hepatectomy

Introduction: Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) derived from autologous tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) has demonstrated promising therapeutic efficacy in several cancers. However, its possible synergistic effects with anti-PD-1 therapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (aHCC) remain unexplored. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of TIL infusion combined with anti-PD-1 therapy for aHCC. Case Presentation: Referring to the current protocol of our clinical trial (NCT03658785), two patients with HCC at BCLC stage C were enrolled to receive autologous TIL infusion combined with anti-PD-1 therapy. They underwent unplanned palliative tumor resection to alleviate pain caused by tumor rupture prior to receiving TIL infusion plus anti-PD-1 therapy. Long-term outcomes and treatment-related adverse events were evaluated. Throughout the entire treatment process, both patients experienced only mild symptoms. Notably, both patients achieved complete responses to the treatment and have remained tumor-free for two and four years, respectively. Conclusion: Autologous TIL infusion combined with anti-PD-1 therapy is a safe and feasible strategy for patients with aHCC. Palliative hepatectomy with maximal tumor burden reduction may significantly improve its efficacy and even results in cure for aHCC patients.