Oncogenic viruses and hepatocellular carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Virology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global health concern, with viral hepatitis being a primary driver.
• Approximately 80% of HCC cases are associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections.
• The development of HCC involves complex and heterogeneous molecular pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant role of HBV and HCV in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma.
• To emphasize the importance of antiviral therapy in the prevention of HCC.
• To discuss the molecular complexity and heterogeneity of HCC tumors.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing epidemiological and molecular data on HBV, HCV, and HCC.
• Analysis of the direct and indirect roles of viral infections in HCC development.
• Examination of HCC pathogenesis in the context of chronic viral hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Main Results:

• Strong evidence suggests a compelling role for both HBV and HCV in promoting HCC.
• Cirrhosis is not always a prerequisite for tumorigenesis in chronically infected patients.
• HCC tumors exhibit significant complexity and heterogeneity due to aberrant molecular pathways.

Conclusions:

• HCC prevention through antiviral therapy is a critical goal, given the high prevalence linked to HBV/HCV.
• Understanding the viral roles in HCC development is crucial, despite ongoing speculation about direct/indirect mechanisms.
• Chronic viral hepatitis can lead to HCC even in the absence of advanced liver disease.