Predictive factors for hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after curative treatments

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common neoplasm worldwide. Recurrence of HCC after resection or loco-regional therapies represents an important clinical issue as it affects up to 70% of patients. This can be divided into early or late, if it occurs within or after 24 months after treatment, respectively. While the predictive factors for early recurrence are mainly related to tumour biology (local invasion and intrahepatic metastases), late recurrences are mainly related to de novo tumour formation. Thus, it is important to recognize these factors prior to any treatment in each patient, in order to optimize the treatment strategy and follow-up after treatment. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence available regarding predictive factors for the recurrence of HCC, according to the different therapeutic strategies available. In particular, we will discuss the role of new ultrasound-based techniques and biological features, such as tumor-related and circulating biomarkers, in predicting HCC recurrence. Recent advances in imaging-related parameters in computed-tomography scans and magnetic resonance imaging will also be discussed.

Decoding Immune Signature to Detect the Risk for Early-Stage HCC Recurrence

“…Curative interventions including surgical resection, orthotopic liver transplantation and ablative techniques are cornerstones for early-stage HCC management [6,35]. Even though curative therapies offer long term stable responses and improved survival, tumor recurrence is a crucial factor that leads to increased mortality in patients with HCC [36]. Early and late recurrence is reported in 70% of patients at 5 years after curative or locoregional therapies [37].…”

circKCNN2 suppresses the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma at least partially via regulating miR‐520c‐3p/methyl‐DNA‐binding domain protein 2 axis

“…Surgical resection remains to be the mainstay of curative treatment. The postoperative recurrence rate of HCC is up to 70% 3 . Tumor size, satellite nodules, microscopic vascular invasion (MVI), advanced stage, HBV load, inflammation, and increased α‐fetoprotein (AFP) are proven to be important prognostic factors in HCC 3,4 .…”

“…The postoperative recurrence rate of HCC is up to 70% 3 . Tumor size, satellite nodules, microscopic vascular invasion (MVI), advanced stage, HBV load, inflammation, and increased α‐fetoprotein (AFP) are proven to be important prognostic factors in HCC 3,4 . Antiviral treatment decreases postoperative recurrence of HBV‐related HCC (HBV‐HCC) 5,6 .…”