Recurrence risk prediction models for hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation

Liver transplantation (LT) is an effective method for curing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However postoperative tumor recurrence can lead to higher mortality rates. To select suitable candidates for LT, the Milan Criteria (MC) were first proposed based on tumor morphological characteristics. For those patients who meet the MC, the MC can effectively reduce the postoperative tumor recurrence rate and improve the prognosis of patients undergoing LT. It has always been internationally recognized as the gold standard for selecting candidates for LT, marking a milestone in the history of LT for HCC. However, its strict conditions exclude some HCC patients who could benefit from LT. Therefore, comprehension consideration criteria, including serum biomarkers, tumor histology, and other factor, have been continuously proposed in addition to tumor morphology. This article summaries the prediction model for HCC recurrence after LT from five aspects: tumor morphology, serum markers, histopathology, cellular inflammatory factors and downstaging treatment before transplantation. The aim is to assist clinicians in accurately assessing HCC status, selecting appropriate liver transplant candidates, maximize graft and patients' survival, and optimizing the utilization of social health resources.