Pushing the limits of treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract

Purpose of review: We review existing and newer strategies for treatment and surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) both pre and postliver transplantation.

Summary: HCC is rising in incidence and patients are often diagnosed at later stages. Consequently, there is a need for treatment strategies which include collaboration of multiple specialties. Combinations of locoregional, systemic, and surgical therapies are yielding better postliver transplantation (post-LT) outcomes for patients with HCC than previously seen. Tumor biology (tumor size, number, location, serum markers, response to therapy) can help identify patients who are at high risk for HCC recurrence posttransplantation and may expand transplant eligibility for some patients.