Conditions associated with hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Virology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer with significant global mortality.
• Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the most established risk factor for HCC.
• Understanding alternative risk factors is crucial for comprehensive HCC prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on conditions associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) beyond hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
• To identify and discuss non-HBV risk factors contributing to HCC development.
• To provide a consolidated resource for researchers and clinicians on diverse HCC etiologies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of relevant databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus).
• Inclusion of studies investigating associations between various conditions and HCC.
• Synthesis and summary of findings from selected research articles.

Main Results:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major non-HBV risk factor for HCC.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progressive form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), are increasingly recognized as HCC drivers.
• Other significant associations include alcohol-related liver disease, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and certain genetic predispositions.
• Cirrhosis from any cause significantly elevates HCC risk.

Conclusions:

• While chronic HBV infection remains paramount, a growing spectrum of non-viral conditions contribute significantly to the global burden of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• The rising prevalence of metabolic and lifestyle-related factors underscores the need for broader screening and prevention strategies for HCC.
• Further research into the mechanisms underlying non-HBV-related HCC is warranted to develop targeted therapies and interventions.