Latest advances in hepatocellular carcinoma management and prevention through advanced technologies

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common type of liver cancer, with a high mortality rate. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer that can be effectively managed through early detection and accurate diagnosis, followed by a personalized treatment plan that may include surgical resection, liver transplantation, minimally-invasive techniques, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy depending on the stage and severity of the cancer. This paper discusses recent advances in the early detection, management, and prevention of HCC. The use of newer imaging techniques, such as Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, along with image segmentation technology and deep learning models, have greatly enhanced the accuracy of HCC detection and diagnosis. Minimally-invasive techniques, such as thermal ablation and radiofrequency ablation, have allowed for more precise and targeted destruction of tumors, while Nanoparticles, immunotherapy and targeted therapy have shown promise in the management of advanced stage HCC. The use of Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has revolutionized HCC research, aiding in the identification of high-risk patients and predicting outcomes. Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management, alcohol avoidance, and hepatitis B vaccinations, can play a critical role in preventing HCC development. Recent advances in early detection, management, and prevention of HCC have shown promise in improving patient outcomes. The use of newer imaging techniques, minimally-invasive techniques, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and AI and machine learning have greatly enhanced HCC research and management, while lifestyle modifications can play a critical role in prevention. However, further research is required to fully understand the potential benefits of nanoparticles, traditional Chinese medicine and herbal medicines in HCC treatment. • Early detection and diagnosis: The advent of newer imaging techniques, such as MRI, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and image segmentation technology, has allowed for earlier and more accurate detection of HCC, with higher sensitivity and specificity than previous techniques. Advances in radiomics and deep learning models have greatly enhanced the accuracy of HCC diagnosis. • AI and machine learning: The use of AI and machine learning has revolutionized HCC research, with greater accuracy and an ability to analyze large volumes of data. AI-based predictive models have been shown to be helpful in identifying high-risk patients and predicting outcomes. • Management: While surgical resection and liver transplantation remain effective treatments for early-stage HCC, advances in minimally-invasive techniques, such as thermal ablation and radiofrequency ablation, have allowed for more precise and targeted destruction of tumors. Additionally, nanoparticles, immunotherapy and targeted therapy have shown significant promise in the management of advanced stage HCC. • Prevention: Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and alcohol avoidance, along with hepatitis B vaccinations, can play a critical role in preventing HCC development. • Traditional Chinese medicine and herbal medicines in HCC treatment require further investigation.