Practice Matters
Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of the Advanced Practitioner in a Multidisciplinary Approach
Patrick M. Horne, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, and Roniel Cabrera, MD, MS
From University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
Patrick M. Horne has received grant funding from Bayer Healthcare/Onyx Pharmaceuticals, manufacturers of sorafenib. Roniel Cabrera has served as a speaker and consultant and receives research funding from Bayer Healthcare/Onyx Pharmaceuticals.
Correspondence to: Patrick M. Horne, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, Section of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, Room M440, Gainesville, FL 32610-0214. E-mail: patrick.horne@medicine.ufl.edu
J Adv Pract Oncol 2011;2:263–268 |
DOI: 10.6004/jadpro.2011.2.4.5 |
© 2011 Harborside Press®
ABSTRACT
The management of cirrhosis in conjunction with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be an overwhelming, time-consuming task. However, close monitoring and detection for early complications from cirrhosis, with appropriate treatment, can stabilize the cirrhosis enough to allow treatment of the HCC. Having a clinical team with a hepatology background trained in the management of chronic liver diseases and cirrhosis is critical for the HCC patient. This article describes our experiences at the University of Florida, where our group has developed a streamlined evaluation and management strategy for patients facing this complicated disease. This “one-stop shop” strategy takes a multidisciplinary approach, with advanced practitioners—including nurse practitioners and physician assistants—at the forefront in treatment decisions and adjustments as well as the ongoing care of the patient.
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