Portal thrombosis and steatosis after preoperative chemotherapy with FOLFIRI-bevacizumab for colorectal liver metastases

In order to discuss the role of preoperative chemotherapy for colorectal liver metastases, which is used frequently before hepatic resection, even in patients with resectable disease at presentation, we herein report the development of two complications, partial portal vein thrombosis and hepatic steatosis with lobular inflammation, during the course of preoperative chemotherapy with FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab for colorectal liver metastases, which recognition led to timely discontinuation of chemotherapy as well as a change in the surgical strategy to resect the tumors and the damaged liver through advanced techniques. We conclude that duration of treatment and drug doses and combinations may impact the development of chemotherapy-induced liver injury. Surgeons and medical oncologists must work together to devise safe, rational, and oncologically appropriate treatments for patients with multiple colorectal liver metastases, and to improve the understanding of the pathogenesis of chemotherapy-induced liver injury.