Role of stereotactic body radiotherapy in the management of primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Rationale, technique and results.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequently occurring primary tumour of the liver in adults and the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. The incidence of HCC is increasing both in Europe and in the United States due to the increasing prevalence of hepatitis C. Of recognised importance, when making decisions regarding the most appropriate management of a patient with HCC, is the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of hepatologists, hepatobiliary surgeons, a liver transplant team, interventional radiologists, and medical and radiation oncologists. This manuscript reviews the role of stereotactic body radiotherapy in HCC.