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Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Search for an Optimal Screening Test

  • 0Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa Applied University, Salt 19117, Jordan.
Middle East Journal of Digestive Diseases +

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May 5, 2025

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May 5, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening needs better biomarkers. This review explores new tests beyond alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) for earlier liver cancer detection and improved survival rates.

Area Of Science

  • Hepatology and Oncology
  • Cancer Biomarkers
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer death globally, often arising from chronic liver disease (CLD).
  • Current screening methods like ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) have limitations in sensitivity and specificity.
  • Early detection of HCC is crucial for improving patient survival rates through timely curative treatment.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To review recent advancements in screening tests for early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection.
  • To highlight promising novel biomarkers and combined algorithms for HCC surveillance.
  • To provide an overview of screening strategies evaluated over the past decade.

Main Methods

  • Review of scientific literature focusing on HCC screening tests and biomarkers.
  • Analysis of studies published within the last decade concerning early HCC detection.
  • Evaluation of diagnostic performance of various biomarkers and scoring systems.

Main Results

  • Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) has limited accuracy for HCC detection, necessitating improved methods.
  • Emerging biomarkers such as lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive AFP, des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin, and circulating tumor markers show promise.
  • Combination biomarker approaches, including the GALAD score and Doylestown algorithm, may enhance early HCC detection.

Conclusions

  • There is a critical need for more sensitive and specific biomarkers for early HCC detection.
  • Novel biomarkers and integrated algorithms represent a significant advancement in HCC surveillance strategies.
  • Continued research into innovative screening tools is essential for improving outcomes in patients at risk for HCC.

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