Advancements in hepatocellular carcinoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review primarily focuses on new developments in the prevention and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. RECENT FINDINGS: Molecular markers for tumor biology are still in development, but advances thus far are promising. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system offers the best prognostic information in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. While surgery remains the gold standard for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma, new methods are emerging with greater potential response, lower risk and lower cost. Percutaneous local ablative therapy has proved very effective. Chemoemobolization therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma has been effective in selected patients with improved survival reported in a large cohort. SUMMARY: New methods for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma need to continue to evolve. This includes more focused therapies to reduce tumor development or more effective adjuvants to promote positive pre and posttransplant response. With the advent of better treatment options due to a clearer understanding of the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma, there is hope that the seemingly insurmountable burden of this disease will come under better control.