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Updated: Sep 6, 2025

A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Baseline characteristics associated with survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Seymur Aslanov1, Nalan Gulsen Unal1, Ali Senkaya1
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Ege School of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey.
Insights
This study identified key factors influencing survival in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. A prognostic index based on these factors accurately predicts long-term survival, aiding treatment decisions.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Oncology
- Medical Statistics
Background:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health challenge.
- Identifying prognostic factors is crucial for patient management and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between baseline parameters and survival in HCC patients.
- To develop and validate a prognostic index for HCC survival prediction.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 788 HCC patients' data from 2000-2017.
- Collection of demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics.
- Calculation of prognostic scores and survival analysis.
Main Results:
- Median survival was 26.3 months, with a 5-year survival rate of 28.1%.
- Tumor characteristics (number, diameter), platelet count, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT), vascular involvement, and alpha-fetoprotein levels were independent predictors of survival.
- A prognostic index demonstrated an 86% predictive value for 5- and 10-year survival.
Conclusions:
- Established prognostic factors significantly impact HCC patient survival.
- The developed prognostic index offers a valuable tool for predicting survival and informing treatment decisions in HCC management.
Background And Aim:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and most lethal cancers worldwide. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between basal parameters and survival characteristics in patients with HCC.
Materials And Methods:
The records of 1447 HCC patients of a tertiary center during the period 2000-2017 were screened retrospectively. The demographic details; basal clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics; treatments; and survival time were recorded and prognostic scores were calculated.
Results:
A total of 788 patients with HCC (male/female: 623/165; mean age: 60.5±10.9 years) were included in the study. The median length of survival was 26.3 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 22.3-30.4 months). The 5-year survival rate was 28.1%. The number and diameter of the tumors; platelet count; platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio; level of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase; portal and hepatic vein involvement; and an alpha-fetoprotein level of <9.6 ng/mL were found to be independently related to survival.
Conclusion:
The positive predictive value of the prognostic index derived from independent survival-related parameters for 5- and 10-year survival or overall survival was approximately 86%. Integration of this prognostic index to the criteria used in making treatment decisions for patients with HCC should be considered.
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