Progress in the Epidemiology and Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, and its epidemiological characteristics and risk factors are continuously evolving. This review systematically elaborates on the global disease burden of HCC, the main risk factors (including hepatitis B/C virus infection, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, aflatoxin exposure, and unhealthy lifestyles), and the corresponding prevention strategies. The article provides a detailed analysis of the performance and limitations of key serological markers currently used for early diagnosis of HCC, such as alpha-fetoprotein, abnormal prothrombin, and alpha-fetoprotein variant L3. Furthermore, the review comprehensively summarizes the advancements in clinical treatment for HCC, ranging from radical approaches including surgical resection, liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation to palliative therapies for patients with advanced disease such as transcatheter arterial chemoembolization, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and further evaluates their efficacy, indications, and challenges. This article aims to provide a comprehensive reference for a deeper understanding of the current status of HCC prevention and control, improving early diagnostic rates, and optimizing clinical treatment strategies.
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