Current Treatment Paradigm and Approach to Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent primary liver cancer globally.
• Etiology and risk factors for HCC vary geographically, with hepatitis B common in Asia/Africa and metabolic disorders in Western countries.
• The molecular mechanisms of hepatocarcinogenesis involve complex interactions between oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of HCC.
• To discuss potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.
• To review diagnostic modalities and treatment strategies for HCC.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of hepatocellular carcinoma.
• Analysis of etiological factors, molecular pathways, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic interventions.
• Synthesis of information on risk factors, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of HCC.

Main Results:

• Geographic variations in HCC risk factors identified (e.g., Hepatitis B vs. metabolic disorders).
• Key diagnostic patterns in tri-phasic MRI/CT highlighted.
• Overview of diverse treatment options including transplantation, locoregional therapies, and systemic treatments like immunotherapy.

Conclusions:

• HCC pathogenesis is multifactorial, influenced by geographic and molecular factors.
• Accurate diagnosis relies on imaging modalities with characteristic HCC patterns.
• A range of treatment strategies, from local therapies to systemic and immune-based approaches, are available for HCC management.