Hepatectomy for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) related HCC: Propensity case-matched analysis with viral- and alcohol-related HCC

Association of concomitant MASLD and hepatitis B virus with clinical prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma after curative resection

The term "metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease" (MASLD) was introduced to replace the term "nonalcoholic fatty liver disease". The prevalence of MASLD is increasing worldwide. The prevalence of concomitant MASLD and hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is also increasing. This study explored the effect of the coexistence of MASLD and HBV on clinicopathological features and long-term clinical prognoses in patients with MASLD-related and/or HBV-related HCC after curative hepatectomy. The study retrospectively collected the data of 653 patients with HCC who had undergone curative hepatectomy between 2011 and 2022. We assessed the association of histologically confirmed MASLD with HCC recurrence and mortality. Of 653 patients, 320 (49.0%), 103 (15.8%), and 230 (35.2%) had concomitant MASLD and HBV, MASLD only, and HBV only, respectively. The median follow-up period was 5.1 years. Patients with concomitant MASLD and HBV were at a significantly increased risk of HCC recurrence (P = 0.013 and P = 0.041) and mortality (P = 0.044 and P = 0.026) than those with MASLD or HBV alone. In multivariable analyses, concomitant MASLD and HBV, male sex, body mass index < 23, absence of antiviral therapy, and tumor size ≥ 5 cm were significantly associated with increased HCC recurrence. Concomitant MASLD and HBV, male sex, type 2 diabetes mellitus, serum aspartate aminotransferase ≥ 40 U/L, tumor size ≥ 5 cm, tumor cell differentiation II-III, microvascular invasion, lymph node invasion, and tumor recurrence were significantly associated with increased mortality. In conclusion, patients with concomitant MASLD and HBV are at a significantly greater risk of HCC recurrence and mortality after curative hepatectomy than those with MASLD or HBV alone.

EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for approximately 90% of primary liver cancers. Advances in diagnostic and therapeutic tools, along with improved understanding of their application, are transforming patient treatment. Integrating these innovations into clinical practice presents challenges and necessitates guidance. These clinical practice guidelines offer updated advice for managing patients with HCC and provide a comprehensive review of pertinent data. Key updates from the 2018 EASL guidelines include personalised surveillance based on individual risk assessment and the use of new tools, standardisation of liver imaging procedures and diagnostic criteria, use of minimally invasive surgery in complex cases together with updates on the integrated role of liver transplantation, transitions between surgical, locoregional, and systemic therapies, the role of radiation therapies, and the use of combination immunotherapies at various stages of disease. Above all, there is an absolute need for a multiparametric assessment of individual risks and benefits, considering the patient's perspective, by a multidisciplinary team encompassing various specialties.

Impact of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty/Steatotic Liver Disease on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Incidence and Long-Term Prognosis Post-Liver Resection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the influence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) on the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among general population and patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). It also explores its implications for the long-term prognosis of HCC patients following hepatic resection.

METHODS

Relevant studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, including adherence to diagnostic criteria for MAFLD/MASLD and reporting hazard ratios (HRs) using Cox proportional hazards models. The meta-analysis utilized R statistical software (version 4.3.0) with random-effects models to calculate pooled HRs. Sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure the robustness of results.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 19 studies, among which 12 studies focused on the cumulative incidence of HCC in the general population (979,213 individuals; 294,984 with MAFLD/MASLD and 684,229 without). MAFLD/MASLD significantly increased the cumulative incidence of HCC in the general population (HR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.34-2.48). In CHB patients (316,445 participants; 108,183 with MAFLD/MASLD and 208,262 without), the cumulative incidence of HCC was also higher in the MAFLD/MASLD group (HR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.32-1.40). For 7383 postoperative HCC patients (2192 with MAFLD/MASLD and 5191 without), MAFLD/MASLD did not significantly affect overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.69-1.26) or recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 0.98; 95% CI, 0.86-1.13).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, MAFLD/MASLD can significantly increase the incidence of HCC in both the general population and CHB patients. However, it does not significantly influence long-term prognosis after hepatic resection, suggesting that other factors may have a greater role in determining postoperative outcomes. This highlights the need for tailored management strategies for MAFLD/MASLD patients undergoing HCC resection.

Outcomes of radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma with concurrent steatotic liver disease

BACKGROUND

Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is an emerging liver disease that has been associated with an increased risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The impact of concurrent SLD on the prognosis of HCC remains unknown. This study investigates how concurrent SLD affects the outcomes of patients with HCC undergoing curative radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with early-stage HCC receiving curative RFA at a tertiary medical center was conducted. Laboratory data and HCC characteristics were recorded and analyzed by a Cox proportional hazards regression model to predict recurrence and all-cause mortality after RFA.

RESULTS

A total of 598 patients with HCC were included between 2005 and 2015, with 139 and 459 classified in SLD and non-SLD groups, respectively. The SLD group exhibited a significantly better liver reserve and a lower cumulative incidence of HCC recurrence and liver-related and all-cause mortality after a median follow-up of 51 months. After adjusting for metabolic dysfunction, liver reserve, and HCC characteristics, the presence of SLD reduced all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45-0.996; p = .048), which was supported by inverse probability weighting analysis (aHR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.42-1.00; p = .049). Poor liver functional reserve (high albumin-bilirubin grades) increased all-cause mortality dose dependently. Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging and a higher Fibrosis-4 index were predictors for HCC recurrence, whereas SLD was not.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with HCC undergoing curative RFA, those with concurrent SLD had a lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with poor liver functional reserve.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

The present research demonstrated that patients with both liver cancer and steatotic liver disease who received curative radiofrequency ablation for liver cancer survived longer compared to those without steatotic liver disease. Maintaining good liver function is an important prognostic factor for survival.

Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) has been introduced as a superior term to describe steatosis on a background of metabolic dysregulation and is slated to become the leading cause of HCC worldwide, as the incidence of metabolic comorbidities is increasing. As such, MASLD has evolved into an important public health issue, potentially leading to higher rates of liver mortality and end-stage liver disease. To this end, understanding the association between MASLD and HCC may allow for the identification of better interventions and novel therapeutic strategies.

AREAS COVERED

The authors provide a review of current knowledge on HCC development among patients with MASLD, with insights into molecular pathways and current and future therapeutic strategies.

EXPERT OPINION

MASLD has a strong association with the risk of HCC development, as metabolic comorbidities induce dysregulation in molecular pathways, leading to insulin-resistance, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation, thus causing progression to cirrhosis and eventually to HCC. Therapeutic strategies focused on reducing diabetes-associated complications, as well as the prevalence of obesity and smoking can improve patient outcomes and reduce HCC incidence. Future studies on the molecular background of metabolic alterations may help devise new therapeutic approaches aiming to improve the current management of MASLD-HCC.

Metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease metrics and contributions to liver research

BACKGROUND

The international consensus to revise non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in 2020 attracted significant attention. The impact of the MAFLD definition on the research community has not been objectively assessed. We conducted an analysis of systematically collected literature on MAFLD to understand its research impact.

METHODS

From PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, the literature adopting MAFLD, written in English, and published from 2020 to 10 October 2023 was collected. The publication metrics, including publication counts, publishing journals, author countries, author keywords, and citation information, were analyzed to evaluate the research impact and key topics on MAFLD.

RESULTS

1469 MAFLD-related papers were published in 434 journals with a steady increase in the number. The intense publishing and citations activity on MAFLD indicates the large impact of the redefinition. Topic assessment with keyword and citation analysis revealed a transition from the proposal and discussion of the redefinition to clinical characterization of MAFLD with a focus on metabolic dysfunction. Moreover, the diagnostic criteria for MAFLD showed better performance in predicting hepatic and extrahepatic outcomes compared to NAFLD. The publications were from 99 countries with evidence of strong regional and global collaboration. Multiple international societies and stakeholders have endorsed MAFLD for its utility in clinical practice, improving patient management and promoting multidisciplinary care, while alleviating stigma.

CONCLUSION

This survey provides a quantitative measure of the considerable international impact and contributions of the MAFLD definition towards liver research and as part of the spectrum of cardiometabolic disorders.

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation for metabolic-associated fatty liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) versus hepatitis virus B-related HCC: a propensity score matching study

OBJECTIVES

To compare the long-term outcomes of microwave ablation (MWA) for primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) with those infected by hepatitis virus B (HBV).

METHODS

The clinical data of HCC patients under the treatment of MWA were analyzed retrospectively between 2010 and 2021 at Chinese PLA General Hospital. Patients were divided into MAFLD-HCC and HBV-HCC group according to the chronic liver disease etiology. The propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to reduce the interference of confounders. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and intrahepatic distant recurrence (IDR).

RESULTS

A total of 648 patients (age range, 18-91 years) with 1019 lesions were enrolled including 601 with HBV-HCC and 47 with MAFLD-HCC. After a variable ratio of 1:n ≤ 4 PSM, 100 patients were included in the HBV-HCC and 41 in the MAFLD-HCC group. No statistical differences in OS and CSS (p = 0.880 and p = 0.980, respectively) were observed between the two groups in the matched cohort, while MAFLD-HCC exhibited better RFS and lower IDR rates compared to HBV-HCC (p = 0.043 and p = 0.041, respectively). Additionally, MAFLD-HCC generated lower ascending range in the liver function indexes like ΔALT (46.7 vs. 98.5, p < 0.001), ΔTBIL (1.9 vs. 7.5, p = 0.001) and ΔAST (38.1 vs. 148.6, p < 0.001) than HBV-HCC after MWA.

CONCLUSIONS

MWA is an effective treatment for HCC patients with MAFLD. The recurrence prognosis of MAFLD-HCC was better than HBV-HCC and the degree of liver injury after MWA was lower.

Epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical aspects of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in MAFLD patients

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is undergoing a transformative shift, with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerging as a dominant etiology. Diagnostic criteria for MAFLD involve hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysregulation. Globally, MAFLD prevalence stands at 38.77%, significantly linked to the escalating rates of obesity. Epidemiological data indicate a dynamic shift in the major etiologies of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), transitioning from viral to metabolic liver diseases. Besides the degree of liver fibrosis, several modifiable lifestyle risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, smoking, and HBV, HCV infection contribute to the pathogenesis of HCC. Moreover  gut microbiota and genetic variants may contribute to HCC development.The pathophysiological link between MAFLD and HCC involves metabolic dysregulation, impairing glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammation and oxidative stress. Silent presentation poses challenges in early MAFLD-HCC diagnosis. Imaging, biopsy, and AI-assisted techniques aid diagnosis, while HCC surveillance in non-cirrhotic MAFLD patients remains debated.ITA.LI.CA. group proposes a survival-based algorithm for treatment based on Barcelona clinic liver cancer (BCLC) algorithm. Liver resection, transplantation, ablation, and locoregional therapies are applied based on the disease stage. Systemic treatments is promising, with initial immunotherapy results indicating a less favorable response in MAFLD-related HCC.Adopting lifestyle interventions and chemopreventive measures with medications, including aspirin, metformin, and statins, constitute promising approaches for the primary prevention of HCC.Prognosis is influenced by multiple factors, with MAFLD-HCC associated with prolonged survival. Emerging diagnostic biomarkers and epigenomic markers, show promising results for early HCC detection in the MAFLD population.

Percutaneous ablation in perivascular-HCC: impact of liver parenchyma and characteristics of vascular structures on the outcomes

AIM

Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a standard treatment for small-HCC (<3 cm). However, some features such as proximity to intrahepatic vascular structures (perivascular location) seem to be related to short- and long-term outcomes. The aims of the study were to investigate the features related to ablation success and local tumor progression (LTP) in patients submitted to percutaneous ablation for perivascular-HCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From January 2010 to May 2021, 132 perivascular-HCC nodules ablated with US-guided single probe percutaneous RFA were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate analysis and multivariable Cox regression model were used to identify factors that were independently related to ablation success and LTP-free survival.

RESULTS

The overall ablation success rate was 71.9% (n=95). Morbidity and mortality rates were 4.0% and 0.0%. The features related to ablation success: nodule size (≤20 mm vs. >20 mm) (OR 2.442, p=0.031), major vascular structures diameter (3-5 mm vs ≥ 5 mm) (OR 2.167, p=0.037) and liver parenchyma (cirrhosis vs no-cirrhosis) (OR 2.373, p=0.033). The following features resulted independently related to better LTP-free survival: nodule size ≤20 mm (HR 2.802, p=0.003), proximity to glissonean pedicles (HR 1.677, p=0.028), and major vascular structure diameter <5 mm (HR 1.987, p=0.041).

CONCLUSIONS

Perivascular location confirmed to be a difficult and unfavorable indication for percutaneous ablation for HCC nodules. However, perivascular nodules not suitable for surgery with low-risk features (size <20 mm, proximity to glissonian pedicles and vascular diameter <5 mm) may be treated with RFA with satisfactory outcomes.

Global prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The global proportion of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) attributable to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is unclear. The MAFLD diagnostic criteria allows objective diagnosis in the presence of steatosis plus defined markers of metabolic dysfunction, irrespective of concurrent liver disease. We aimed to determine the total global prevalence of MAFLD in HCC cohorts (total-MAFLD), including the proportion with MAFLD as their sole liver disease (single-MAFLD), and the proportion of those with concurrent liver disease where MAFLD was a contributary factor (mixed-MAFLD).

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis included studies systematically ascertaining MAFLD in HCC cohorts, defined using international expert panel criteria including ethnicity-specific BMI cut-offs. A comparison of clinical and tumour characteristics was performed between single-MAFLD, mixed-MAFLD, and non-MAFLD HCC.

RESULTS

22 studies (56,565 individuals with HCC) were included. Total and single-MAFLD HCC prevalence was 48.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 34.5-63.0%) and 12.4% (95% CI 8.3-17.3%), respectively. In HCC due to chronic hepatitis B, C, and alcohol-related liver disease, mixed-MAFLD prevalence was 40.0% (95% CI 30.2-50.3%), 54.1% (95% CI 40.4-67.6%) and 64.3% (95% CI 52.7-75.0%), respectively. Mixed-MAFLD HCC had significantly higher likelihood of cirrhosis and lower likelihood of metastatic spread compared to single-MAFLD HCC, and a higher platelet count and lower likelihood of macrovascular invasion compared to non-MAFLD HCC.

CONCLUSION

MAFLD is common as a sole aetiology, but more so as a co-factor in mixed-aetiology HCC, supporting the use of positive diagnostic criteria.

Patients undergoing liver resection for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma and those for viral hepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma have similar survival outcomes

Numerous studies have compared outcomes of liver resection (LR) of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to those of patients with non-NAFLD-related HCC. However, results have been inconsistent. We aim to clarify this issue. We enrolled 801 patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related HCC, 433 patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC, and 128 patients with NAFLD-related HCC undergoing LR. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of patients with different etiologies of chronic liver disease was compared using the Kaplan-Meier estimator and log-rank test after propensity score matching (PSM). After PSM, 83 patients remained in each group. The groups did not differ significantly in age, sex, the proportion of patients with pathological American Joint Committee on Cancer stage 1, tumor size > 50 mm, receipt of major resection, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) ≥ 20 ng/ml, presence of cirrhosis, model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification. The five-year OS of patients with HBV-, HCV-, and NAFLD-related HCC was 78%, 75%, and 78%, respectively (p = 0.789). The five-year DFS of the HBV, HCV, and NAFLD groups was 60%, 45%, and 54%, respectively (p = 0.159). Perioperative morbidity was noted in 17 (20.5%) in the HBV group, 22 (26.5%) in the HCV group, and 15 (18.1%) in the NAFLD group (p = 0.398). The five-year OS, DFS, and perioperative morbidity of patients undergoing LR for NAFLD-related HCC and those for viral hepatitis-related HCC was similar.

What Is the Role of Minimally Invasive Liver Surgery in Treating Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma on Cirrhosis?

Minimally invasive liver surgery (MILS) has been slowly introduced in the past two decades and today represents a major weapon in the fight against HCC, for several reasons. This narrative review conveys the major emerging concepts in the field. The rise in metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)-related HCC means that patients with significant cardiovascular risk will benefit more profoundly from MILS. The advent of efficacious therapy is leading to conversion from non-resectable to resectable cases, and therefore more patients will be able to undergo MILS. In fact, resection outcomes with MILS are superior compared to open surgery both in the short and long term. Furthermore, indications to surgery may be further expanded by its use in Child B7 patients and by the use of laparoscopic ablation, a curative technique, instead of trans-arterial approaches in cases not amenable to radiofrequency. Therefore, in a promising new approach, multi-parametric treatment hierarchy, MILS is hierarchically superior to open surgery and comes second only to liver transplantation.

A unique case of lymphoepithelioma-like HCC with osteoclast-like giant cells: CT imaging features with pathologic correlations

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignancy of the liver, with several histological variants being reported in literature. Hereby, we describe a case of a 77-year-old man with chronic liver disease referred to our department for performing a computed tomography (CT) due to a liver mass discovered at an abdominal ultrasound follow-up. At CT, a large, ill-defined lesion in the third hepatic segment was detected, characterized by progressive and delayed enhancement with minimal retraction of the hepatic capsule, associated with perihepatic adipose tissue inhomogeneity, mimicking a cholangiocarcinoma. At histopathological evaluation, the lesion turned out to be an HCC with lymphoepithelioma-like component and osteoclastic-like giant cells. This report focuses on the clinicopathological and radiological features of this unique case.

MAFLD: an optimal framework for understanding liver cancer phenotypes

Hepatocellular carcinoma has a substantial global mortality burden which is rising despite advancements in tackling the traditional viral risk factors. Metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most prevalent liver disease, increasing in parallel with the epidemics of obesity, diabetes and systemic metabolic dysregulation. MAFLD is a major factor behind this sustained rise in HCC incidence, both as a single disease entity and often via synergistic interactions with other liver diseases. Mechanisms behind MAFLD-related HCC are complex but is crucially underpinned by systemic metabolic dysregulation with variable contributions from interacting disease modifiers related to environment, genetics, dysbiosis and immune dysregulation. MAFLD-related HCC has a distinct clinical presentation, most notably its common occurrence in non-cirrhotic liver disease. This is just one of several major challenges to effective surveillance programmes. The response of MAFLD-related HCC to immune-checkpoint therapy is currently controversial, and is further complicated by the high prevalence of MAFLD in individuals with HCC from viral aetiologies. In this review, we highlight the current data on epidemiology, clinical characteristics, outcomes and screening controversies. In addition, concepts that have arisen because of the MAFLD paradigm such as HCC in MAFLD/NAFLD non-overlapping groups, dual aetiology tumours and MAFLD sub-phenotypes is reviewed.

Tenofovir versus entecavir on the prognosis of hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma after surgical resection: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Nucleot(s)ide analog treatment (entecavir (ETV) and tenofovir (TDF)) is reported to be associated with decreased tumor recurrence and death in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, yet further work is needed to evaluate the different efficacies of these two agents on the prognosis of early-stage HBV-related HCC patients after curative liver resection.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From July 2017 to January 2019, 148 patients with HBV-related HCC who underwent curative liver resection were randomized to receive TDF ( n =74) or ETV ( n =74) therapy. The primary end point was tumor recurrence in the intention-to-treat population. Overall survival and tumor recurrence of patients were compared by multivariable-adjusted Cox regression and competing risk analyses.

RESULTS

During the follow-up with continued antiviral therapy, 37 (25.0%) patients developed tumor recurrence, and 16 (10.8%) patients died ( N =15) or received liver transplantation ( N =1). In the intention-to-treat cohort, the recurrence-free survival for the TDF group was significantly better than that for the ETV group ( P =0.026). In the multivariate analysis, the relative risks of recurrence and death/liver transplantation for ETV therapy were 3.056 (95% CI: 1.015-9.196; P =0.047) and 2.566 (95% CI: 1.264-5.228; P =0.009), respectively. Subgroup analysis of the PP population indicated a better overall survival and RFS of patients receiving TDF therapy ( P =0.048; hazard ratio (HR) =0.362; 95% CI: 0.132-0.993 and P =0.014; HR =0.458; 95% CI: 0.245-0.856). Additionally, TDF therapy was an independent protective factor against late tumor recurrence ( P =0.046; (HR)=0.432; 95% CI: 0.189-0.985) but not against early tumor recurrence ( P =0.109; HR =1.964; 95% CI: 0.858-4.494).

CONCLUSION

HBV-related HCC patients treated with consistent TDF therapy had a significantly lower risk of tumor recurrence than those treated with ETV after curative treatment.

Survival of Patients with Hepatitis B-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Concomitant Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease

Purpose

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease is a novel concept defined as fatty liver associated with metabolic disorders. We investigated the effect of metabolic associated fatty liver disease on hepatocellular carcinoma patient mortality.

Patients and Methods

A total of 624 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma between 2012 and 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Metabolic associated fatty liver disease was defined based on the proposed criteria in 2020. Propensity score matching was performed for patients with metabolic associated fatty liver disease and those without the condition. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the association between metabolic associated fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma patient outcomes.

Results

Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and metabolic associated fatty liver disease tended to achieve better outcomes than did those without metabolic associated fatty liver disease after matching (p<0.001). Metabolic associated fatty liver disease was significantly associated with better prognosis in patients with concurrent hepatitis B infection (p<0.001). Moreover, high levels of hepatitis B viral DNA in serum samples was associated with a significantly increased risk of death in patients without non-metabolic associated fatty liver disease (p=0.045). Additionally, the association between metabolic associated fatty liver disease and survival in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma was similar in all subgroups based on metabolic traits.

Conclusion

Metabolic associated fatty liver disease increases the survival rate of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatitis B virus infection. The potential interaction of steatosis and virus replication should be considered for future research and clinical treatment strategies.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Modern Context for an Ancient Disease

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide [...].

Model to predict major complications following liver resection for HCC in patients with metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is rapidly growing as risk factor for HCC. Liver resection for HCC in patients with MS is associated with increased postoperative risks. There are no data on factors associated with postoperative complications.

AIMS

The aim was to identify risk factors and develop and validate a model for postoperative major morbidity after liver resection for HCC in patients with MS, using a large multicentric Western cohort.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The univariable logistic regression analysis was applied to select predictive factors for 90 days major morbidity. The model was built on the multivariable regression and presented as a nomogram. Performance was evaluated by internal validation through the bootstrap method. The predictive discrimination was assessed through the concordance index.

RESULTS

A total of 1087 patients were gathered from 24 centers between 2001 and 2021. Four hundred and eighty-four patients (45.2%) were obese. Most liver resections were performed using an open approach (59.1%), and 743 (68.3%) underwent minor hepatectomies. Three hundred and seventy-six patients (34.6%) developed postoperative complications, with 13.8% major morbidity and 2.9% mortality rates. Seven hundred and thirteen patients had complete data and were included in the prediction model. The model identified obesity, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, portal hypertension, open approach, major hepatectomy, and changes in the nontumoral parenchyma as risk factors for major morbidity. The model demonstrated an AUC of 72.8% (95% CI: 67.2%-78.2%) ( https://childb.shinyapps.io/NomogramMajorMorbidity90days/ ).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing liver resection for HCC and MS are at high risk of postoperative major complications and death. Careful patient selection, considering baseline characteristics, liver function, and type of surgery, is key to achieving optimal outcomes.

Impact of MAFLD on the complications after hepatectomy in patients with HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a term that was proposed in 2020 by a group of international experts. However, the impact of MAFLD on complications after hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma is not clear. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of MAFLD on the complications after hepatectomy in patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC). Patients with HBV-HCC who underwent hepatectomy between January 2019 and December 2021 were consecutively enrolled. The predictors of complications after hepatectomy in HBV-HCC patients were retrospectively analyzed. Among the 514 eligible HBV-HCC patients, 117 (22.8%) were diagnosed with concurrent MAFLD. Post hepatectomy complications occurred in 101 patients (19.6%), including 75 patients (14.6%) with infectious complications and 40 patients (7.8%) with major complications. Univariate analysis showed that MAFLD was not the risk factor for complications after hepatectomy in patients with HBV-HCC (P > .05). However, univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that lean-MAFLD was an independent risk factor for post hepatectomy complications in patients with HBV-HCC (odds ratio 2.245; 95% confidence interval 1.243-5.362, P = .028). Similar results were found in the analysis of predictors for infectious and major complications after hepatectomy in patients with HBV-HCC. MAFLD commonly coexists with HBV-HCC and is not directly associated with complications after hepatectomy, but lean-MAFLD is an independent risk factor for post hepatectomy complications in patients with HBV-HCC.

Impact of metabolic syndrome on the long-term prognosis of patients with hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatectomy

Background & aims

The long-term prognosis of patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) and hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-HCC) after radical hepatectomy remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of MS on long-term survival for patients with HBV-related HCC after hepatectomy.

Methods

Patients with HBV-HCC after hepatectomy were included. Patients were stratified into MS-HBV-HCC and HBV-HCC groups. Clinical features and surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups, and COX regression analysis was used to determine independent risk factors associated with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Result

389 patients (MS-HBV-HCC group: n=50, HBV-HCC group: n=339) were enrolled for further analysis. Baseline characteristics showed that patients with MS-HBV-HCC were associated with a high rate of elderly patients, ASA score, and co-morbid illness, but a lower rate of anatomy hepatectomy. There were no significant differences in perioperative complications. After excluding patients who relapsed or died within 90 days after surgery, multivariate Cox regression analysis showed MS was an independent risk factor of OS (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.05-2.70, P = 0.032) and RFS (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.24-2.57, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

MS is an independent risk factor for poor OS and RFS in HBV-infected HCC patients after radical hepatectomy. This suggests that we need to strengthen postoperative follow-up of the relevant population and encourage patients to develop a healthy lifestyle.

Hepatocellular Carcinoma Due to Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Current Concepts and Future Challenges

Obesity has been labeled as the global pandemic of the 21st century, resulting from a sedentary lifestyle and caloric excess. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by excessive hepatic steatosis, is strongly associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome and is estimated to be present in one-quarter of the world population, making it the most common cause of the chronic liver disease (CLD). NAFLD spectrum varies from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis. The burden of NAFLD has been predicted to increase in the coming decades resulting in increased rates of decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver-related deaths. In the current review, we describe the pathophysiology of NAFLD and NASH, risk factors associated with disease progression, related complications, and mortality. Later, we have discussed the changing epidemiology of HCC, with NAFLD emerging as the most common cause of CLD and HCC. We have also addressed the risk factors of HCC development in the NAFLD population (including demographic, metabolic, genetic, dietary, and lifestyle factors), presentation of NAFLD-associated HCC, its prognosis, and the issue of HCC development in non-cirrhotic NAFLD. Lastly, the problems related to HCC screening in the NAFLD population, the remaining challenges, and future directions, especially the need to identify the high-risk individuals, will be discussed. We will conclude the review by summarizing the clinical evidence for treating fibrosis and preventing HCC in those at risk with NAFLD-associated HCC.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease: a year in review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In 2020, a novel comprehensive redefinition of fatty liver disease was proposed by an international panel of experts. This review aims to explore current evidence regarding the impact of this new definition on the current understanding of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and clinical trials for fatty liver disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

The effectiveness of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) was compared to the existing criteria for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recent data robustly suggest the superior utility of MAFLD in identifying patients at high risk for metabolic dysfunction, the hepatic and extra-hepatic complications, as well as those who would benefit from genetic testing, including patients with concomitant liver diseases. This change in name and criteria also appears to have improved disease awareness among patients and physicians.

SUMMARY

The transformation in name and definition from NAFLD to MAFLD represents an important milestone, which indicates significant tangible progress towards a more inclusive, equitable, and patient-centred approach to addressing the profound challenges of this disease. Growing evidence has illustrated the broader and specific contexts that have tremendous potential for positively influencing the diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the momentum accompanying this name change has included widespread public attention to the unique burden of this previously underappreciated disease.

Is metabolic syndrome a risk factor in hepatectomy? A meta-analysis with subgroup analysis for histologically confirmed hepatic manifestations

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor in surgery. MetS can progress to metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), a vast-growing etiology of primary liver tumors which are major indications for liver surgery. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the impact of MetS on complications and long-term outcomes after hepatectomy.

METHODS

The protocol for this meta-analysis was registered at PROSPERO prior to data extraction. MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched for publications on liver resections and MetS. Comparative studies were included. Outcomes encompassed postoperative complications, mortality, and long-term oncologic status. Data were pooled as odds ratio (OR) with a random-effects model. Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies tool (QUIPS), and the certainty of the evidence was evaluated with GRADE. Subgroup analyses for patients with histopathologically confirmed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) versus controls were performed.

RESULTS

The meta-analyses included fifteen comparative studies. Patients with MetS suffered significantly more overall complications (OR 1.55; 95% CI [1.05; 2.29]; p=0.03), major complications (OR 1.97 95% CI [1.13; 3.43]; p=0.02; I²=62%), postoperative hemorrhages (OR 1.76; 95% CI [1.23; 2.50]; p=0.01) and infections (OR 1.63; 95% CI [1.03; 2.57]; p=0.04). There were no significant differences in mortality, recurrence, 1- or 5-year overall or recurrence-free survivals. Patients with histologically confirmed NAFLD did not have significantly more overall complications; however, PHLF rates were increased (OR 4.87; 95% CI [1.22; 19.47]; p=0.04). Recurrence and survival outcomes did not differ significantly. The certainty of the evidence for each outcome ranged from low to very low.

CONCLUSION

Patients with MetS that undergo liver surgery suffer more complications, such as postoperative hemorrhage and infection but not liver-specific complications-PHLF and biliary leakage. Histologically confirmed NAFLD is associated with significantly higher PHLF rates, yet, survivals of these patients are similar to patients without the MetS. Further studies should focus on identifying the tipping point for increased risk in patients with MetS-associated liver disease, as well as reliable markers of MAFLD stages and early markers of PHLF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO Nr: CRD42021253768.