Discontinuing Hepatitis Activity Reduced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence after Primary Curative Therapy.

Area of Science:

• Hepatology and Oncology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) frequently recurs after curative treatments.
• Identifying factors predicting recurrence is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify clinical factors associated with HCC recurrence after initial curative therapy.
• To analyze risk factors for HCC recurrence within five years post-treatment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of early-stage HCC patients (BCLC stages 0 and A) treated with resection or ablation.
• Inclusion of 804 patients from three Taiwanese hospitals (2000-2009).
• Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses, Kaplan-Meier curves, and log-rank tests were used.

Main Results:

• Alcohol consumption, platelet count < 14 × 10⁴/μL, and serum ALT > 40 U/L were independent risk factors for HCC recurrence.
• Patients treated with nucleoside analogs or peg-interferon had lower recurrence rates.
• No significant difference in recurrence rates between radiofrequency ablation and surgical resection for BCLC stages 0 and A.

Conclusions:

• Persistent hepatitis activity and advanced fibrosis contribute to HCC recurrence.
• Discontinuing liver injury or hepatitis can potentially reduce HCC recurrence.
• Clinical factors like alcohol habits and liver enzyme levels are key indicators for HCC recurrence risk.