Treating Hepatobiliary Cancers: The Oncology Way

Area of Science:

• Hepatology and Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer mortality globally, accounting for over 90% of primary liver cancers.
• HCC incidence is rising worldwide, often developing in patients with liver cirrhosis, a progressive condition impacting survival.
• Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), particularly intrahepatic CCA (iCCA), is the second most common primary liver tumor, with increasing global incidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the epidemiology and risk factors associated with Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA).
• To highlight the impact of liver function and shared risk factors on the outcomes of these primary liver cancers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and epidemiological data analysis.
• Synthesis of information on risk factors and disease progression for HCC and iCCA.

Main Results:

• HCC outcome is influenced by both tumor characteristics and underlying liver function.
• Increasing global incidence of both HCC and iCCA is observed.
• Shared risk factors including viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are implicated in the rise of both cancers.

Conclusions:

• The rising incidence of HCC and iCCA necessitates a focus on shared risk factors for prevention and management strategies.
• Understanding the interplay between liver function and tumor progression is crucial for improving patient outcomes in primary liver cancers.