Journal of Liver Cancer

Most-download articles are from the articles published in 2022 during the last three month.

Original Article

Comparison of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis: Jeayeon Park, Yun Bin Lee, Yunmi Ko, Youngsu Park, Hyunjae Shin, Moon Haeng Hur, Min Kyung Park, Dae-Won Lee, Eun Ju Cho, Kyung-Hun Lee, Jeong-Hoon Lee, Su Jong Yu, Tae-Yong Kim, Yoon Jun Kim, Tae-You Kim, Jung-Hwan Yoon; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):81-91. Published online January 19, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.12.25

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background/Aim
Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib are currently available as first-line therapy for the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, comparative efficacy studies are still limited. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of these treatments in HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT).
Methods
We retrospectively included patients who received either atezolizumab plus bevacizumab or lenvatinib as first-line systemic therapy for HCC with PVTT. Primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and secondary endpoints included progressionfree survival (PFS) and disease control rate (DCR) determined by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors, version 1.1.
Results
A total of 52 patients were included: 30 received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 22 received lenvatinib. The median follow-up duration was 6.4 months (interquartile range, 3.9-9.8). The median OS was 10.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7 to not estimated) with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 5.8 months (95% CI, 4.8 to not estimated) with lenvatinib (P=0.26 by log-rank test). There was no statistically significant difference in OS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.71; 95% CI, 0.34-1.49; P=0.37). The median PFS was similar (P=0.63 by log-rank test), with 4.1 months (95% CI, 3.3-7.7) for atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and 4.3 months (95% CI, 2.6-5.8) for lenvatinib (aHR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.51-1.69; P=0.80). HRs were similar after inverse probability treatment weighting. The DCRs were 23.3% and 18.2% in patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib, respectively (P=0.74).
Conclusion
The effectiveness of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib was comparable for the treatment of HCC with PVTT.

Review Articles

Radioembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: what clinicians need to know: Jin Woo Choi, Hyo-Cheol Kim; J Liver Cancer. 2022;22(1):4-13. Published online February 23, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2022.01.16

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8 Citations

Abstract PDF

Transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with yttrium 90 (⁹⁰Y) has been used in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for more than 10 years in Korea. There are two types of ⁹⁰Y radioactive microspheres available, namely, glass and resin microspheres, with comparable clinical outcomes. In general, TARE outperforms transarterial chemoembolization regarding post-embolization syndrome, time to progression, tumor downsizing for liver transplantation, and hospitalization stay. Although TARE is commonly recommended for patients with unresectable large HCCs, it can be an alternative to or performed in combination with ablation, surgical resection, and systemic treatment. This review aimed to address ⁹⁰Y radioactive microspheres, patient selection, clinical outcomes, simulation tests, radioembolization procedures, follow-up imaging, and complications.

Citations

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Transarterial chemoembolization as an alternative to radioembolization is associated with earlier tumor recurrence than in radioembolization-eligible patients
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The evolution of immune checkpoint inhibitor combinations in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma – A systematic review
Brandon M. Meyers, Jennifer J. Knox, David M. Liu, Deanna McLeod, Ravi Ramjeesingh, Vincent C. Tam, Howard J. Lim
Cancer Treatment Reviews.2023; 118: 102584. CrossRef
Recent Advances in Image-Guided Locoregional Therapies for Primary Liver Tumors
Cody R. Criss, Mina S. Makary
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Multidisciplinary consensus recommendations for management of hepatocellular carcinoma in Middle East and North Africa region
Imam Waked, Sherif Alsammany, Sayed Hammad Tirmazy, Kakil Rasul, Jafar Bani‐Issa, Wael Abdel‐Razek, Ashraf Omar, Amr Shafik, Salem Eid, Amr Abdelaal, Ahmed Hosni, Gamal Esmat
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Impact of Low Skeletal Muscle Mass on Long-Term Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treated with Trans-Arterial Radioembolization: A Retrospective Multi-Center Study
Heechul Nam, Hyun Yang, Ho Soo Chun, Han Ah Lee, Joon Yeul Nam, Jeong Won Jang, Yeon Seok Seo, Do Young Kim, Yoon Jun Kim, Si Hyun Bae
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Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: histological diversity and the role of the pathologist: Mina Komuta; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):17-22. Published online January 3, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.12.11

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Abstract PDF: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is one of the primary liver cancers and presents with tumor heterogeneity. About 50% of iCCAs comprise actionable mutations, which completely change patient management. In addition, the precise diagnosis of iCCA, including subtype, has become crucial, and pathologists play an important role in this regard. This review focuses on iCCA heterogeneity; looking at different perspectives to guide diagnosis and optimal treatment choice.

Changing etiology and epidemiology of hepatocellular carcinoma: Asia and worldwide: Do Young Kim; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):62-70. Published online March 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.03.13

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Abstract PDF: Approximately 80% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases arise in sub-Saharan Africa and Eastern Asia, following a similarly high prevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers in these regions. The etiology and epidemiology of HCC have recently changed worldwide. Although HBV infection is the main contributor to HCC development, a slow but continuous decline in HBV infection rates has been reported since 1990. Owing to the widespread use of direct-acting antivirals, the incidence of hepatitis C virus-related HCC has remarkably decreased in Japan and European countries. In Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore, the incidence of HBV-related HCC has significantly decreased owing to vaccination against HBV. Globally, while HBV accounted for more than half of HCCs in 1990, this had decreased to 42% in 2019. In contrast, the proportion of patients with alcoholic- and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) increased from 13% to 18% and from 5% to 6%, respectively. NASH-related HCC has characteristics that differ from those of virus-associated HCC. Compared with other etiologies, patients with NASHassociated HCC are older, have a higher body mass index, and have higher rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-associated HCC is also known to develop in the absence of cirrhosis, unlike alcohol-related and autoimmune liver diseases. Because patients with NAFLD usually have diabetes or obesity, surveying this population is challenging. Optimal selection of the target population and surveillance tools among patients with NAFLD needs to be determined.

Guideline

2022 KLCA-NCC Korea practice guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma: J Liver Cancer. 2023;23(1):1-120. Published online December 9, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2022.11.07

7,745 Views
283 Downloads
29 Citations

Abstract PDF

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cancer among men in South Korea, where the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection is high in middle and old age. The current practice guidelines will provide useful and sensible advice for the clinical management of patients with HCC. A total of 49 experts in the fields of hepatology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and radiation oncology from the Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guideline Revision Committee revised the 2018 Korean guidelines and developed new recommendations that integrate the most up-to-date research findings and expert opinions. These guidelines provide useful information and direction for all clinicians, trainees, and researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.

Citations

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The Epidemiology of Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Korea: 15-Year Analysis
Log Young Kim, Jeong-Ju Yoo, Young Chang, Hoongil Jo, Young Youn Cho, Sangheun Lee, Dong Hyeon Lee, Jae Young Jang
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Potential role of Fibrosis‐4 score in hepatocellular carcinoma screening: The Kangbuk Samsung Health Study
Sujeong Shin, Won Sohn, Yoosoo Chang, Yoosun Cho, Min‐Jung Kwon, Sarah H. Wild, Christopher D. Byrne, Seungho Ryu
Hepatology Research.2024;[Epub] CrossRef
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Response to atezolizumab plus bevacizumab specific for lung and lymph node metastases affects survival of patients with HCC
Jiwon Yang, Jonggi Choi, Won‐Mook Choi, Kang Mo Kim, Han Chu Lee, Ju Hyun Shim
Liver International.2024; 44(4): 907. CrossRef
Comparison of Surgical Resection and Radiofrequency Ablation in Elderly Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Jun Il Kim, Jayoun Lee, Gi Hong Choi, Min Woo Lee, Dong Ah Park, Jeong-Ju Yoo
Digestive Diseases and Sciences.2024; 69(3): 1055. CrossRef
Management Consensus Guidelines for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: 2023 Update on Surveillance, Diagnosis, Systemic Treatment, and Posttreatment Monitoring by the Taiwan Liver Cancer Association and the Gastroenterological Society of Taiwan
Wei Teng, Hung-Wei Wang, Shi-Ming Lin
Liver Cancer.2024; : 1. CrossRef
Complications of immunotherapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Young-Gi Song, Jeong-Ju Yoo, Sang Gyune Kim, Young Seok Kim
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 9. CrossRef
Liver resection in selective hepatocellular carcinoma with Vp3 or Vp4 portal vein tumor thrombosis improves prognosis
Manuel Lim, Jongman Kim, Jinsoo Rhu, Gyu-Seong Choi, Jae-Won Joh
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 102. CrossRef
Comparison of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab and lenvatinib for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis
Jeayeon Park, Yun Bin Lee, Yunmi Ko, Youngsu Park, Hyunjae Shin, Moon Haeng Hur, Min Kyung Park, Dae-Won Lee, Eun Ju Cho, Kyung-Hun Lee, Jeong-Hoon Lee, Su Jong Yu, Tae-Yong Kim, Yoon Jun Kim, Tae-You Kim, Jung-Hwan Yoon
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 81. CrossRef
Programmed Death 1 and Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte-Associated Protein 4 Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Can Serve as Prognostic Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
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Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Steatotic Liver Disease and Its Newly Proposed Subclassification
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Ja Kyung Yoon, Sunyoung Lee, Jeong Ah Hwang, Ji Eun Lee, Seung-seob Kim, Myeong-Jin Kim
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Radiologic features of hepatocellular carcinoma related to prognosis
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Journal of Clinical Medicine.2023; 12(9): 3336. CrossRef
Transarterial Chemoembolization for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: 2023 Expert Consensus-Based Practical Recommendations of the Korean Liver Cancer Association
Yuri Cho, Jin Woo Choi, Hoon Kwon, Kun Yung Kim, Byung Chan Lee, Hee Ho Chu, Dong Hyeon Lee, Han Ah Lee, Gyoung Min Kim, Jung Suk Oh, Dongho Hyun, In Joon Lee, Hyunchul Rhim
Korean Journal of Radiology.2023; 24(7): 606. CrossRef
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Transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: 2023 Expert consensus-based practical recommendations of the Korean Liver Cancer Association
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Clinical and Molecular Hepatology.2023; 29(3): 521. CrossRef
Classification of microvascular invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma: correlation with prognosis and magnetic resonance imaging
Yoon Jung Hwang, Jae Seok Bae, Youngeun Lee, Bo Yun Hur, Dong Ho Lee, Haeryoung Kim
Clinical and Molecular Hepatology.2023; 29(3): 733. CrossRef
A nationwide study on the current treatment status and natural prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in elderly
Jeong-Ju Yoo, Jayoun Lee, Gi Hong Choi, Min Woo Lee, Dong Ah Park
Scientific Reports.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
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Sequential regorafenib or nivolumab therapy in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma with sorafenib failure in liver transplant patients does not improve prognosis
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Adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma
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Review Articles

Complications of immunotherapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Young-Gi Song, Jeong-Ju Yoo, Sang Gyune Kim, Young Seok Kim; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):9-16. Published online November 29, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.11.21

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76 Downloads

Abstract PDF: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are highly effective in cancer treatment. However, the risks associated with the treatment must be carefully balanced against the therapeutic benefits. Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are generally unpredictable and may persist over an extended period. In this review, we analyzed common irAEs reported in highly cited original articles and systematic reviews. The prevalent adverse reactions include fatigue, pyrexia, rash, pruritus, diarrhea, decreased appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, hepatitis, and hypothyroidism. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct evaluations not only of gastrointestinal organs but also of cardiac, neurologic, endocrine (including the frequently affected thyroid), and ophthalmic systems before commencing ICIs. This review further explores commonly reported types of irAEs, specific irAEs associated with each ICI agent, rare yet potentially fatal irAEs, and available treatment options for managing them.

The role of lenvatinib in the era of immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: Matthew Man Pok Lee, Landon Long Chan, Stephen Lam Chan; J Liver Cancer. 2023;23(2):262-271. Published online August 17, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.07.17

2,723 Views
253 Downloads
2 Citations

Abstract PDF

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) frequently presents as advanced stage with poor prognosis and high mortality. Systemic treatment is the treatment of choice for advanced disease. In 2007, the first multi-kinase inhibitor (MKI) sorafenib was approved and shown to modestly prolong overall survival (OS). The progress of systemic therapy has been slow afterwards until 2018 when lenvatinib, another MKI, was shown to be non-inferior to sorafenib on median OS as the first-line therapy for HCC. Since then, remarkable progress has been achieved on the treatment of advanced HCC, including the development of second-line targeted treatment, including regorafenib, cabozantinib and ramucirumab from 2017 to 2019. A growing focus has been placed on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed cell death-1 (PD-1), its ligand PD-L1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4. These ICIs have proven their potency in treating HCC as both initial and subsequent line of therapy. At present, both regimens of atezolizumab combined with bevacizumab, as well as the combination of tremelimumab and durvalumab, are recommended as the first-line treatments based on positive phase III clinical trials. With the advancement of ICIs, it is anticipated that the role of MKIs in the treatment of HCC will evolve. In this article, lenvatinib, one of the most commonly used MKIs in HCC, is chosen to be reviewed.

Citations

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Reduced-Dose or Discontinuation of Bevacizumab Might Be Considered after Variceal Bleeding in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Receiving Atezolizumab/Bevacizumab: Case Reports
Kyeong-Min Yeom, Young-Gi Song, Jeong-Ju Yoo, Sang Gyune Kim, Young Seok Kim
Medicina.2024; 60(1): 157. CrossRef
The Position of Multikinase Inhibitors in the Era of Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Beom Kyung Kim
Gut and Liver.2024; 18(1): 3. CrossRef

Current perspectives on radiotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma management: a comprehensive review: Dowook Kim, Jun-Sang Kim; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):33-46. Published online March 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.02.26

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47 Downloads

Abstract PDF: This review examines the transformative role of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) in managing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), spotlighting the progression from traditional EBRT techniques to advanced modalities like intensity-modulated radiotherapy (RT), stereotactic body RT (SBRT), and innovative particle therapy, including proton beam therapy and carbon ion RT. These advancements have significantly improved the precision and efficacy of RT, marking a paradigm shift in the multimodal management of HCC, particularly in addressing complex cases and enhancing local tumor control. The review underscores the synergistic potential of integrating RT with other treatments like transarterial chemoembolization, systemic therapies such as sorafenib, and emerging immunotherapies, illustrating enhanced survival and disease control outcomes. The efficacy of RT is addressed for challenging conditions, including advanced HCC with macrovascular invasion, and RT modalities, like SBRT, are compared against traditional treatments like radiofrequency ablation for early-stage HCC. Additionally, the review accentuates the encouraging outcomes of particle therapy in enhancing local control and survival rates, minimizing treatment-related toxicity, and advocating for continued research and clinical trials. In conclusion, the integration of RT into multimodal HCC treatment strategies, coupled with the emergence of particle therapy, is crucial for advancing oncologic management, emphasizing the need for relentless innovation and personalized treatment approaches.

Original Article

Treatment options for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma ≤5 cm: surgery vs. ablation: a multicenter retrospective study: Kazuya Kariyama, Kazuhiro Nouso, Atsushi Hiraoka, Hidenori Toyoda, Toshifumi Tada, Kunihiko Tsuji, Toru Ishikawa, Takeshi Hatanaka, Ei Itobayashi, Koichi Takaguchi, Akemi Tsutsui, Atsushi Naganuma, Satoshi Yasuda, Satoru Kakizaki, Akiko Wakuta, Shohei Shiota, Masatoshi Kudo, Takashi Kumada; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):71-80. Published online November 6, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.09.11

921 Views
93 Downloads
3 Citations

Abstract PDF

Background/Aim
The aim of this study was to compare the therapeutic efficacy of ablation and surgery in solitary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) measuring ≤5 cm with a large HCC cohort database.
Methods
The study included consecutive 2,067 patients with solitary HCC who were treated with either ablation (n=1,248) or surgery (n=819). Th e patients were divided into three groups based on the tumor size and compared the outcomes of the two therapies using propensity score matching.
Results
No significant difference in recurrence-free survival (RFS) or overall survival (OS) was found between surgery and ablation groups for tumors measuring ≤2 cm or >2 cm but ≤3 cm. For tumors measuring >3 cm but ≤5 cm, RFS was significantly better with surgery than with ablation (3.6 and 2.0 years, respectively, P=0.0297). However, no significant difference in OS was found between surgery and ablation in this group (6.7 and 6.0 years, respectively, P=0.668).
Conclusion
The study suggests that surgery and ablation can be equally used as a treatment for solitary HCC no more than 3 cm in diameter. For HCCs measuring 3-5 cm, the OS was not different between therapies; thus, ablation and less invasive therapy can be considered a treatment option; however, special caution should be taken to prevent recurrence.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Reply to the Letter regarding “Treatment options for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma ≤5 cm: surgery vs. ablation: a multicenter retrospective study”
Kazuhiro Nouso, Kazuya Kariyama
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 5. CrossRef
Radiofrequency for hepatocellular carcinoma larger than 3 cm: potential for applications in daily practice
Ji Hoon Kim, Pil Soo Sung
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 1. CrossRef
Letter regarding “Treatment options for solitary hepatocellular carcinoma ≤5 cm: surgery vs. ablation: a multicenter retrospective study”
Jongman Kim
Journal of Liver Cancer.2024; 24(1): 3. CrossRef

Review Articles

Multidisciplinary approach for hepatocellular carcinoma patients: current evidence and future perspectives: Joo Hyun Oh, Dong Hyun Sinn; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):47-56. Published online March 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.02.27

488 Views
45 Downloads

Abstract PDF: Management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is challenging due to the complex relationship between underlying liver disease, tumor burden, and liver function. HCC is also notorious for its high recurrence rate even after curative treatment for early-stage tumor. Liver transplantation can substantially alter patient prognosis, but donor availability varies by each patient which further complicates treatment decision. Recent advancements in HCC treatments have introduced numerous potentially efficacious treatment modalities. However, high level evidence comparing the risks and benefits of these options is limited. In this complex situation, multidisciplinary approach or multidisciplinary team care has been suggested as a valuable strategy to help cope with escalating complexity in HCC management. Multidisciplinary approach involves collaboration among medical and health care professionals from various academic disciplines to provide comprehensive care. Although evidence suggests that multidisciplinary care can enhance outcomes of HCC patients, robust data from randomized controlled trials are currently lacking. Moreover, the implementation of a multidisciplinary approach necessitates increased medical resources compared to conventional cancer care. This review summarizes the current evidence on the role of multidisciplinary approach in HCC management and explores potential future directions.

Recent updates on the classification of hepatoblastoma according to the International Pediatric Liver Tumors Consensus: Se Un Jeong, Hyo Jeong Kang; J Liver Cancer. 2022;22(1):23-29. Published online March 17, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2022.02.24

5,385 Views
466 Downloads
2 Citations

Abstract PDF

Hepatoblastoma is the most common pediatric liver malignancy and usually occurs within the first 3 years of life. In recent years, the overall incidence of hepatoblastoma has exhibited the greatest increase among all pediatric malignancies worldwide. The diagnosis of hepatoblastoma may be challenging due to the lack of a current consensus classification system. The International Pediatric Liver Tumors Consensus introduced guidelines and a consensus classification for the diagnosis of hepatoblastoma as either epithelial or mixed epithelial and mesenchymal and in the updated 5^th edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Digestive System Tumors.

Citations

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Adult hepatoblastoma: making the challenging distinction from hepatocellular carcinoma
Allison Kaye L. Pagarigan, Paulo Giovanni L. Mendoza
Journal of Liver Cancer.2023; 23(1): 219. CrossRef
Advances in Histological and Molecular Classification of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Joon Hyuk Choi, Swan N. Thung
Biomedicines.2023; 11(9): 2582. CrossRef

Original Articles

Additional nodules detected using EOB-MRI in patients with resectable single hepatocellular carcinoma: an implication for active treatment strategy: Na Reum Kim, Seoung Yoon Rho, Jonathan Navarro, Chansik An, Dai Hoon Han, Jin Sub Choi, Myeong-Jin Kim, Gi Hong Choi; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):92-101. Published online February 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.01.25

718 Views
41 Downloads

Abstract PDF: Background/Aim
Gadolinium-ethoxybenzyl-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (EOBMRI) further enhances the identification of additional hepatic nodules compared with computed tomography (CT) alone; however, the optimal treatment for such additional nodules remains unclear. We investigated the long-term oncological effect of aggressive treatment strategies for additional lesions identified using EOB-MRI in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Methods
Data from 522 patients diagnosed with solitary HCC using CT between January 2008 and December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis was used to compare the oncologic outcomes between patients with solitary HCC and those with additional nodules on EOB-MRI after aggressive treatment (resection or radiofrequency ablation [RFA]).
Results
Among the 383 patients included, 59 had additional nodules identified using EOB-MRI. Compared with patients with solitary HCC, those with additional nodules on EOB-MRI had elevated total bilirubin, aspartate transaminase, and alanine transaminase; had a lower platelet count, higher MELD score, and highly associated with liver cirrhosis (P<0.05). Regarding long-term outcomes, 59 patients with solitary HCC and those with additional nodules after PSM were compared. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were comparable between the two groups (DFS, 60.4 vs. 44.3 months, P=0.071; OS, 82.8 vs. 84.8 months, P=0.986).
Conclusion
The aggressive treatment approach, either resection or RFA, for patients with additional nodules identified on EOBMRI was associated with long-term survival comparable with that for solitary HCC. However, further studies are required to confirm these findings.

Isolation and characterization of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma: Kyoungdo Mun, Jiwon Han, Pureun Roh, Jonggeun Park, Gahee Kim, Wonhee Hur, Jeongwon Jang, Jongyoung Choi, Seungkew Yoon, Youngkyoung You, Hojoong Choi, Pilsoo Sung; J Liver Cancer. 2023;23(2):341-349. Published online June 12, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2023.04.30

2,497 Views
167 Downloads
1 Citation

Abstract PDF

Background/Aim
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play an immunosuppressive role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of human cancers; however, their characteristics and role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain to be elucidated.
Methods
Nine tumor and surrounding liver tissue samples from patients with HCC who underwent surgery were used to isolate patient-derived CAFs. Cell morphology was observed using an optical microscope after culture, and cell phenotypes were evaluated using flow cytometry and immunoblotting. Cytokines secreted by CAFs into culture medium were quantified using a multiplex cytokine assay.
Results
CAFs were abundant in the TME of HCC and were adjacent to immune cells. After culture, the CAFs and non-tumor fibroblasts exhibited spindle shapes. We observed a robust expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin and fibroblast activation protein in CAFs, whereas alpha-fetoprotein, epithelial cell adhesion molecule, platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, and E-cadherin were not expressed in CAFs. Furthermore, CAFs showed high secretion of various cytokines, namely C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and C-C motif chemokine ligand 2.
Conclusions
CAFs are abundant in the TME of HCC and play a crucial role in tumor progression. These fibroblasts secrete cytokines that promote tumor growth and metastasis.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Rebuilding the microenvironment of primary tumors in humans: a focus on stroma
Siwon Mun, Hyun Jin Lee, Pilnam Kim
Experimental & Molecular Medicine.2024; 56(3): 527. CrossRef

Review Article

Intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma: refining substaging or shifting paradigm?: Bernardo Stefanini, Luca Ielasi, Dante Pio Pallotta, Sofia Penazza, Mariarosaria Marseglia, Fabio Piscaglia; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):23-32. Published online March 12, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.02.21

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Abstract PDF: This review explores the evolution of cancer staging, focusing on intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the challenges faced by physicians. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system, introduced in 1999, was designed to address the limitations associated with providing accurate prognostic information for HCC and allocating specific treatments, to avoid overtreatment. However, criticism has emerged, particularly regarding the intermediate stage of HCC (BCLC-B) and its heterogeneous patient population. To overcome this limitation, various subclassification systems, such as the Bolondi and Kinki criteria, have been proposed. These systems are aimed at refining categorizations within the intermediate stage and have demonstrated varying degrees of success in predicting outcomes through external validation. This study discusses the shift in treatment paradigms, emphasizing the need for a more personalized approach rather than strictly adhering to cancer stages, without dismissing the relevance of staging systems. It assesses the available treatment options for intermediate-stage HCC, highlighting the importance of considering surgical and nonsurgical options alongside transarterial chemoembolization for optimal outcomes. In conclusion, the text advocates for a paradigm shift in staging systems prioritizing treatment suitability over cancer stage. This reflects the evolving landscape of HCC management, where a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for tailoring treatments to individual patients, ultimately aiming to improve overall survival.

Original Article

Liver resection in selective hepatocellular carcinoma with Vp3 or Vp4 portal vein tumor thrombosis improves prognosis: Manuel Lim, Jongman Kim, Jinsoo Rhu, Gyu-Seong Choi, Jae-Won Joh; J Liver Cancer. 2024;24(1):102-112. Published online February 14, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.2024.01.31

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Abstract PDF: Background/Aim
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor thrombi located in the first branch of the portal vein (Vp3) or in the main portal trunk (Vp4) are associated with poor prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and risk factors for HCC recurrence and mortality following liver resection (LR) in patients with Vp3 or Vp4 HCC.
Methods
The study included 64 patients who underwent LR for HCC with Vp3 or Vp4 portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT).
Results
Fifty-eight patients (90.6%) had Vp3 PVTT, whereas the remaining six patients exhibited Vp4 PVTT. The median tumor size measured 8 cm, with approximately 36% of patients presented with multiple tumors. Fifty-four patients (84.4%) underwent open LR, whereas 10 patients underwent laparoscopic LR. In the Vp4 cases, combined LR and tumor thrombectomy were performed. The 3-year cumulative disease-free survival rate was 42.8% for the Vp3 group and 22.2% for the Vp4 group. The overall survival (OS) rate at 3 years was 47.9% for the Vp3 group and 60.0% for the Vp4 group. Intrahepatic metastasis has been identified as an important contributor to HCC recurrence. High hemoglobin levels are associated with high mortality.
Conclusion
LR is a safe and effective treatment modality for selected patients with Vp3 or Vp4 HCC PVTT. This suggests that LR is a viable option for these patients, with favorable outcomes in terms of OS.

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