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Updated: Jul 20, 2026

A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Jorge A Marrero1, Shawn Pelletier
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, 3912 Taubman Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. jmarrero@umich.edu
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases are projected to double, with cirrhosis patients at highest risk. Surveillance, imaging, staging, and curative treatments like resection are discussed, but advanced HCC lacks standard therapy.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Oncology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence is rising, with projections indicating a doubling within two decades.
- Patients with cirrhosis, irrespective of the underlying cause, represent the highest-risk group for HCC development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline current strategies for HCC surveillance in high-risk populations.
- To discuss diagnostic and staging methodologies for HCC.
- To review available treatment options for HCC, including curative and palliative approaches.
Main Methods:
- Surveillance protocols involving alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing and ultrasound imaging.
- Diagnostic evaluation utilizing various imaging modalities.
- Application of the Barcelona staging classification for HCC.
- Review of curative interventions: resection, transplantation, and percutaneous ablation.
Main Results:
- Curative treatments are applicable to approximately 30% of HCC patients.
- Established surveillance and diagnostic pathways exist for at-risk individuals.
- Significant treatment gap identified for advanced stages of HCC.
Conclusions:
- Early detection through surveillance is crucial for improving HCC outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary approaches are essential for HCC management.
- Further research is needed to establish standard therapies for advanced HCC.
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