Liver transplantation for patients with advanced bile duct cancer

Plain-English translation of NCT06098547 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated January 2024 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

The LIRICA trial is studying liver transplantation as a treatment option for patients with a type of cancer called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer inside the liver) that cannot be surgically removed. Patients in this trial will first receive six months of standard chemotherapy to try to control the cancer, and then, if their disease is stable or improved, they may be eligible to receive a liver transplant. The study aims to understand whether this approach can help patients live longer and have a better quality of life.

Bile duct cancer inside the liver is difficult to treat because it is often advanced when discovered and cannot be safely removed with surgery. This trial exists to explore whether transplanting a new liver, after chemotherapy has controlled the disease, might be a life-saving option for patients who would otherwise have very limited treatment choices.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer inside the liver) confirmed by a biopsy
your cancer cannot be removed by surgery due to its location, size, or your liver health
you have received at least six months of standard chemotherapy and your cancer has either stopped growing or partially responded to treatment
your blood work and organ function tests show you are healthy enough for chemotherapy and transplantation
your cancer has not spread outside your liver or to distant parts of your body, based on imaging scans

You likely don't qualify if…

your cancer has grown into major blood vessels or through the protective lining of your abdomen
you have other cancers (except cancers treated more than 5 years ago with no return)
you have HIV infection or have previously received an organ transplant
you have active substance abuse or medical, psychological, or social conditions that would prevent you from safely participating
you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or your body mass index is outside the range of 18–30

What participation looks like

If you enroll, you will first receive six months of standard chemotherapy while being evaluated by a team of liver transplant specialists. During this time, you will have imaging scans (CT, MRI, and PET-MR) to check how your cancer is responding and whether it has spread. If your cancer is controlled and you remain eligible, you will be placed on the liver transplant waiting list and continue chemotherapy until a suitable donor liver becomes available. Once a liver is found, you will have surgery for transplantation; this may include sampling of lymph nodes during the operation to look for any hidden cancer spread.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 4, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

Italy

Azienda Ospedale Università di Padova, Padova