First-line immune checkpoint inhibitors plus targeted therapy versus sorafenib or lenvatinib monotherapy for unresectable or advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis of phase 3 trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and targeted therapy (TT) combinations have emerged as promising first-line treatments for unresectable or advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (u/aHCC), leveraging synergistic anti-tumor effects. However, the comparative efficacy and safety of ICI-TT regimens versus sorafenib or lenvatinib (S/L) monotherapy require further elucidation across larger patient populations. This meta-analysis synthesizes data from phase 3 trials to evaluate the clinical benefits and risks of first-line ICI-TT combination therapy in u/aHCC.

Methods

We conducted systematic searches in PubMed and major oncology conference proceedings up to June 10, 2025. Eligible studies were randomized phase 3 trials comparing first-line ICI-TT versus S/L mon

SUBMITTER: Lin Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12568680 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature