Recent advances in recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma therapy

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, accounting for 75%-85% of cases. Although treatments are given to cure early-stage HCC, up to 50%-70% of individuals may experience a relapse of the illness in the liver after 5 years. Research on the fundamental treatment modalities for recurrent HCC is moving significantly further. The precise selection of individuals for therapy strategies with established survival advantages is crucial to ensuring better outcomes. These strategies aim to minimize substantial morbidity, support good life quality, and enhance survival for patients with recurrent HCC. For individuals with recurring HCC after curative treatment, no approved therapeutic regimen is currently available. A recent study presented novel approaches, like immunotherapy and antiviral medication, to improve the prognosis of patients with recurring HCC with the apparent lack of data to guide the clinical treatment. The data supporting several neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies for patients with recurring HCC are outlined in this review. We also discuss the potential for future clinical and translational investigations.

Keywords: Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma; Liver transplantation; Therapy; Immunotherapy; Neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy

Core Tip: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, and up to 50%-70% of individuals may experience a relapse of the illness in the liver after 5 years. This review will provide novel approaches to improve the prognosis of patients with recurring HCC with the apparent lack of data to guide the clinical treatment. Neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant therapy methods potentially elevate the opportunity of cure in refractory patients with recurrent HCC and contribute to a better long-term prognosis.