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Mendiratta-Lala M, Fetzer D, Kamaya A, Parikh ND, Singal AG. The Future Role of Abdominal US in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Radiology 2024; 311:e232624. [PMID: 38742973 PMCID: PMC11140528 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.232624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Abdominal US is currently the best-validated surveillance strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in at-risk patients. It is the only modality shown to have completed all five phases of validation and can achieve high sensitivity and specificity for HCC detection, especially when conducted by expert sonographers in high-volume centers. However, US also has limitations, including operator dependency and varying sensitivity in clinical practice. Further, the sensitivity of US for early-stage HCC detection is lower in patients with obesity or nonviral liver disease, increasingly common populations undergoing surveillance. Imaging-based and blood-based surveillance strategies, including abbreviated MRI and biomarker panels, may overcome some limitations of US-based surveillance. Both strategies have promising test performance in phase II and phase III biomarker studies and are undergoing prospective validation. Considering the variation in HCC risk and test performance between patients, there will likely be a shift away from a one-size-fits-all approach and toward precision screening, in which the "best" test is selected based on individual patient characteristics. In this upcoming era of precision HCC screening among patients with cirrhosis, US will likely continue to have an important, albeit reduced, surveillance role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aya Kamaya
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.M.L.) and Internal Medicine
(N.D.P.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich; Department of Radiology
(D.F.) and Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver
Diseases (A.G.S.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5959 Harry
Hines Blvd, Ste 420, POB 1, Dallas, TX 75390-8887; and Department of Radiology,
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, Calif (A.K.)
| | - Neehar D. Parikh
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.M.L.) and Internal Medicine
(N.D.P.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich; Department of Radiology
(D.F.) and Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver
Diseases (A.G.S.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5959 Harry
Hines Blvd, Ste 420, POB 1, Dallas, TX 75390-8887; and Department of Radiology,
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, Calif (A.K.)
| | - Amit G. Singal
- From the Departments of Radiology (M.M.L.) and Internal Medicine
(N.D.P.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich; Department of Radiology
(D.F.) and Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver
Diseases (A.G.S.), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5959 Harry
Hines Blvd, Ste 420, POB 1, Dallas, TX 75390-8887; and Department of Radiology,
Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, Calif (A.K.)
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2
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Kim DH, Yoon JH, Choi MH, Lee CH, Kang TW, Kim HA, Ku YM, Lee JM, Kim SH, Kim KA, Lee SL, Choi JI. Comparison of non-contrast abbreviated MRI and ultrasound as surveillance modalities for HCC. J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00272-1. [PMID: 38636849 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Ultrasonography (US) is recommended for HCC surveillance in high-risk patients but has limited performance in detecting early-stage HCC. We aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of biannual US and annual non-contrast abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (NC-AMRI) as HCC surveillance modalities in high-risk patients. METHODS This prospective, multicenter cohort study enrolled participants with an estimated annual risk of HCC greater than 5% between October 2015 and April 2017. Participants underwent six rounds of HCC surveillance at 6-month intervals, with both US and NC-AMRI at rounds 1, 3, and 5, and only US at rounds 2, 4, and 6. The sensitivity, diagnostic yield (DY), and false referral rate (FRR) for HCC detection by US and NC-AMRI were compared. RESULTS In total, 208 participants underwent 980 US and 516 NC-AMRI examinations during 30 months of follow-up. Among them, 34 HCCs were diagnosed in 31 participants, with 20 (64.5%) classified as very early-stage and 11 (35.5%) as early-stage HCC. The sensitivity of annual NC-AMRI (71.0%, 22/31) was marginally higher than that of biannual US (45.2%, 14/31; p = 0.077). NC-AMRI showed a significantly higher DY than US (4.26% vs. 1.43%, p <0.001), with a similar FRR (2.91% vs. 3.06%, p = 0.885). A simulation of alternating US and NC-AMRI at 6-month intervals yielded a sensitivity of 83.9% (26/31), significantly exceeding that of biannual US (p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS Annual NC-AMRI showed a marginally higher sensitivity than biannual US for HCC detection in high-risk patients. The DY of annual NC-AMRI was significantly higher than that of biannual US, without increasing the FRR. Thus, alternating US and NC-AMRI at 6-month intervals could be an optimal surveillance strategy for high-risk patients. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Current guidelines permit the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a surveillance tool for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients in whom ultrasonography (US) is inadequate. However, the specific indications, imaging sequences, and intervals for MRI surveillance remain unclear. In our study, we found that annual non-contrast abbreviated MRI exhibited marginally higher sensitivity and significantly better diagnostic yield than biannual US in patients at high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Alternating US and non-contrast abbreviated MRI at 6-month intervals led to significantly improved sensitivity compared to biannual US, making it a potentially optimal surveillance strategy for high-risk patients. CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER NCT02551250.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hwan Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea; Current address: Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, Songpa-Gu, Seoul 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hee Yoon
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital and College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Hyung Choi
- Department of Radiology, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Hee Lee
- Department of Radiology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Wook Kang
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun A Kim
- Department of Radiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mi Ku
- Department of Radiology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital and College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Hyun Kim
- Department of Radiology and Center for Imaging Science, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Ah Kim
- Department of Radiology, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Lim Lee
- Department of Radiology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Il Choi
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Koo E, Singal AG. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance: Evidence-Based Tailored Approach. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2024; 33:13-28. [PMID: 37945138 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance is recommended by professional society guidelines given a consistent association with reduced HCC-related mortality. HCC surveillance should be performed using semiannual abdominal ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein, although this combination has suboptimal sensitivity and can miss more than one-third of HCC at an early stage. There are promising emerging blood-based and imaging-based strategies, including abbreviated MRI and biomarker panels; however, these require further validation before routine use in clinical practice. HCC surveillance is underused in clinical practice due to patient-related and provider-related barriers, highlighting a need for interventions to improve surveillance utilization in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden Koo
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5959 Harry Hines Boulevard, POB 1, Suite 420, Dallas, TX 75390-8887, USA.
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4
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Ohtani T, Ishida T, Ozaki K, Takahashi K, Shimada M, Kidoya E. [Usefulness of Electron Density Calculated from Dual Energy CT in Differential Diagnosis between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Hepatic Hemangioma]. Nihon Hoshasen Gijutsu Gakkai Zasshi 2023; 79:1337-1343. [PMID: 37704452 DOI: 10.6009/jjrt.2023-1387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study were to compare electron density (ED), obtained by dual energy computed tomography (DECT), between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hemangioma, and to assess the differential diagnostic performance of ED between HCC and hemangioma. METHODS A total of 46 patients (27 men and 19 women; mean age, 65.7±14.0 years) diagnosed with HCC or hemangioma who underwent upper abdominal DECT between October 2021 and December 2022 were included. ED of each lesion was measured. Relative ED (rED), which is normalized by the ED of background liver parenchyma, was calculated. ED and rED of HCC and hemangioma were statistically analyzed. RESULTS The HCC group showed significantly higher ED (48.1±5.2) and rED (80.0±7.3) than the hemangioma group (43.7±4.1, 69.7±7.2, respectively) (p<0.01). The area under the curve of rED was greater than that of ED, but no significant difference was found (p=0.153). CONCLUSION ED may help in the differential diagnosis between HCC and hemangioma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kumi Ozaki
- Department of Radiology, University of Fukui Hospital
| | | | | | - Eiji Kidoya
- Radiological Center, University of Fukui Hospital
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5
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Singal AG, Llovet JM, Yarchoan M, Mehta N, Heimbach JK, Dawson LA, Jou JH, Kulik LM, Agopian VG, Marrero JA, Mendiratta-Lala M, Brown DB, Rilling WS, Goyal L, Wei AC, Taddei TH. AASLD Practice Guidance on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2023; 78:1922-1965. [PMID: 37199193 PMCID: PMC10663390 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 180.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Josep M. Llovet
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Mark Yarchoan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Neil Mehta
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Laura A. Dawson
- Radiation Medicine Program/University Health Network, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janice H. Jou
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Laura M. Kulik
- Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Vatche G. Agopian
- The Dumont–University of California, Los Angeles, Transplant Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jorge A. Marrero
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mishal Mendiratta-Lala
- Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel B. Brown
- Department of Radiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - William S. Rilling
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Lipika Goyal
- Department of Medicine, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Alice C. Wei
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Tamar H. Taddei
- Department of Medicine (Digestive Diseases), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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6
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Singal AG, Kanwal F, Llovet JM. Global trends in hepatocellular carcinoma epidemiology: implications for screening, prevention and therapy. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2023; 20:864-884. [PMID: 37884736 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00825-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality rates are increasing globally, and particularly in the Western world. Cirrhosis remains the predominant risk factor for HCC. However, epidemiological shifts in the incidence of HCC from patients with virus-related liver disease to those with non-viral aetiologies, including alcohol-associated and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, have important implications for prevention, surveillance and treatment. Hepatitis B vaccination and antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and C are effective for primary prevention of virus-related HCCs, but chemoprevention strategies for non-viral liver disease remain an unmet need. Emerging data suggest associations between aspirin, statins, metformin and coffee and reduced HCC incidence, although none has been proved to be causally related. Secondary prevention of HCC via semi-annual surveillance is associated with improvements in early detection and thus reduced mortality; however, current tools, including abdominal ultrasonography, have suboptimal sensitivity for the detection of early stage HCC, particularly in patients with obesity and/or non-viral liver disease. Promising blood-based or imaging-based surveillance strategies are emerging, although these approaches require further validation before adoption in clinical practice. In the interim, efforts should be focused on maximizing use of the existing surveillance tools given their prevalent underuse globally. Remarkable advances have been made in the treatment of HCC, including expanded eligibility for surgical therapies, improved patient selection for locoregional treatments and increased systemic treatment options, including immune-checkpoint inhibitors. In this Review, we discuss trends in the epidemiology of HCC and their implications for screening, prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit G Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Section of Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- VA Health Services Research & Development Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness, and Safety (IQuESt), Houston, TX, USA
- Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Josep M Llovet
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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7
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Hui S, Bell S, Le S, Dev A. Hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance in Australia: current and future perspectives. Med J Aust 2023; 219:432-438. [PMID: 37803907 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and is increasing in incidence in Australia. For most people with cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis B, HCC screening and surveillance is recommended with 6-monthly ultrasound. However, most patients with HCC are still diagnosed outside of surveillance with incurable disease. While HCC surveillance almost certainly reduces cancer-related mortality, the potential harms of surveillance are incompletely understood. Surveillance uptake remains suboptimal in many contexts, and stems from a combination of patient, clinician and system level barriers. Improved case-finding strategies may be required to identify high risk individuals in need of surveillance, as cirrhosis and viral hepatitis are often asymptomatic. HCC prediction models and novel surveillance tools such as biomarker panels, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may have a future role in personalised HCC surveillance. Analyses suggest surveillance may be cost-effective, but Australian data remain limited. A centralised HCC surveillance program may ultimately have a role in delivering improved and more equitable care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Hui
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Sally Bell
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Suong Le
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Anouk Dev
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC
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8
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Kang JH, Kim NH, Kim DH, Choi Y, Choi JI. Ultrasound LI-RADS Visualization Scores on Surveillance Ultrasound for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:2205-2212. [PMID: 37517886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the proportions of each surveillance ultrasound (US) visualization score for hepatocellular carcinoma based on the US Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) and to identify the factors associated with visualization score C. Original publications reporting US LI-RADS visualization scores were identified in MEDLINE and EMBASE from January 1, 2017, to November 25, 2022. The meta-analytic pooled proportion of each visualization score based on US examination was calculated using the DerSimonian‒Laird random-effects model. Subgroup meta-regression analyses were performed to explore study heterogeneity. US LI-RADS visualization scores were reported from a total of 25,698 US examinations across 12 studies. The pooled proportions of visualization scores A, B and C were 56.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 38.6-73.2%, I2 = 99.2%), 30.3% (95% CI: 21.5-40.7%, I2 = 98.8%) and 6.9% (95% CI: 3.9-11.7%, I2 = 97.7%), respectively. Significantly higher proportions of visualization score C were found in studies that exclusively enrolled cirrhosis patients and a study in which the disease etiology was non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (p < 0.05). In addition, the pooled proportion of visualization score C was higher in studies with a mean or median body mass index >25 kg/m2 (10.7%, 95% CI: 4.3-24.3%). In conclusion, a substantial proportion of surveillance US examinations exhibited moderate to severe limitations on visualization. There was a tendency toward higher proportions of US LI-RADS visualization score C in patients with cirrhosis, NAFLD and obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hun Kang
- Department of Radiology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Hee Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hwan Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yangsean Choi
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon-Il Choi
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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9
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Lazarus JV, Picchio CA, Colombo M. Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prevention in the Era of Hepatitis C Elimination. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14404. [PMID: 37762706 PMCID: PMC10531569 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV), a single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family, is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. Tumors caused by HCC have an increased mortality rate globally, which is more accentuated in Western countries. The carcinogenic potential of this virus is mediated through a wide range of mechanisms, spanning from the induction of chronic inflammation to oxidative stress and deregulation of cellular pathways by viral proteins. As the number of new infections continues unabated, HCC-related mortality should be prioritized through early detection, continued prevention of HCV transmission, and treatment of HCV with safe and efficacious direct antiviral agents (DAAs). People who inject drugs (PWID) are a significant reservoir of new HCV infections globally, and in order to eliminate hepatitis C as a global health threat, as set out by the World Health Organization, an integrated approach based on the optimization of care delivery and increased access to harm reduction and treatment for PWID is needed. Thanks to the development of safe and effective antiviral agents, eradication of the infection is now possible in almost all treated patients, leading to a significant reduction but not the elimination of the risk for HCC in cured patients. This is particularly relevant among aged populations who have cofactors of morbidity known to accelerate HCC progression, such as diabetes, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Given the restless accumulation of individuals with cured HCV infection, the implementation of risk-stratified surveillance programs becomes impellent from a cost-effectiveness perspective, whereas the availability of a performant biomarker to predict HCC in cured patients remains an unmet clinical need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V. Lazarus
- HPAM, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH), New York, NY 10027, USA;
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Camila A. Picchio
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Massimo Colombo
- EASL International Liver Foundation, 1203 Geneva, Switzerland
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10
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El-Serag HB, Ward JW, Asrani SK, Singal AG, Rich N, Thrift AP, Deshpande S, Turner BJ, Kaseb AO, Harrison AC, Fortune BE, Kanwal F. Prevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). White Paper of the Texas Collaborative Center for Hepatocellular Cancer (TeCH) Multi-stakeholder Conference. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 21:2183-2192. [PMID: 37086825 PMCID: PMC10524305 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2023.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Texas has the highest age-adjusted incidence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the United States. The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas has funded the Texas Collaborative Center for Hepatocellular Cancer (TeCH) to facilitate HCC research, education, and advocacy activities with the overall goal of reducing HCC mortality in Texas through coordination, collaboration, and advocacy. METHODS On September 17, 2022, TeCH co-sponsored a multi-stakeholder conference on HCC with the Baker Institute Center for Health and Biosciences. This conference was attended by HCC researchers, policy makers, payers, members from pharmaceutical industry and patient advocacy groups in and outside of Texas. This report summarizes the results of the conference. RESULTS The goal of this meeting was to identify different strategies for preventing HCC and evaluate their readiness for implementation. CONCLUSIONS We call for a statewide (1) viral hepatitis elimination program; (2) program to increase nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and obesity awareness; (3) research program to develop health care models that integrate alcohol associated liver disease treatment and treatment for alcohol use disorder; and (4) demonstration projects to evaluate the effectiveness of identifying and linking patient with advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis to clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John W Ward
- The Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia
| | | | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, Texas
| | - Nicole Rich
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, Texas
| | - Aaron P Thrift
- Section of Epidemiology and Population Sciences, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Barbara J Turner
- Department of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ahmed O Kaseb
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ariel C Harrison
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Brett E Fortune
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Fasiha Kanwal
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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11
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Singal AG, Sanduzzi-Zamparelli M, Nahon P, Ronot M, Hoshida Y, Rich N, Reig M, Vilgrain V, Marrero J, Llovet JM, Parikh ND, Villanueva A. International Liver Cancer Association (ILCA) white paper on hepatocellular carcinoma risk stratification and surveillance. J Hepatol 2023; 79:226-239. [PMID: 36854345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Major research efforts in liver cancer have been devoted to increasing the efficacy and effectiveness of surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As with other cancers, surveillance programmes aim to detect tumours at an early stage, facilitate curative-intent treatment, and reduce cancer-related mortality. HCC surveillance is supported by a large randomised-controlled trial in patients with chronic HBV infection and several cohort studies in cirrhosis; however, effectiveness in clinical practice is limited by several barriers, including inadequate risk stratification, underuse of surveillance, and suboptimal accuracy of screening tests. There are several proposed strategies to address these limitations, including risk stratification algorithms and biomarkers to better identity at-risk individuals, interventions to increase surveillance, and emerging imaging- and blood-based surveillance tests with improved sensitivity and specificity for early HCC detection. Beyond clinical validation, data are needed to establish clinical utility, i.e. increased early tumour detection and reduced HCC-related mortality. If successful, these data could facilitate a precision screening paradigm in which surveillance strategies are tailored to individual HCC risk to maximise overall surveillance value. However, practical and logistical considerations must be considered when designing and implementing these validation efforts. To address these issues, ILCA (the International Liver Cancer Association) adjourned a single topic workshop on HCC risk stratification and surveillance in June 2022. Herein, we present a white paper on these topics, including the status of the field, ongoing research efforts, and barriers to the translation of emerging strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Marco Sanduzzi-Zamparelli
- BCLC Group, Liver Oncology Unit, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions, Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pierre Nahon
- APHP, Liver Unit, Bobigny, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, F-93000 Bobigny, France; Inserm, UMR-1138 "Functional Genomics of Solid Tumors", Centre de recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Ronot
- Université Paris Cité, CRI INSERM UMR 1149, Paris & Department of radiology, Hôpital Beaujon, APHP. Nord, Clichy, France
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Nicole Rich
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Maria Reig
- BCLC Group, Liver Oncology Unit, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions, Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CIBERehd, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Valerie Vilgrain
- Université Paris Cité, CRI INSERM UMR 1149, Paris & Department of radiology, Hôpital Beaujon, APHP. Nord, Clichy, France
| | - Jorge Marrero
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Josep M Llovet
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA; Translational Research in Hepatic Oncology, Liver Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Neehar D Parikh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Mount Sinai Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Lee YT, Fujiwara N, Yang JD, Hoshida Y. Risk stratification and early detection biomarkers for precision HCC screening. Hepatology 2023; 78:319-362. [PMID: 36082510 PMCID: PMC9995677 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality remains high primarily due to late diagnosis as a consequence of failed early detection. Professional societies recommend semi-annual HCC screening in at-risk patients with chronic liver disease to increase the likelihood of curative treatment receipt and improve survival. However, recent dynamic shift of HCC etiologies from viral to metabolic liver diseases has significantly increased the potential target population for the screening, whereas annual incidence rate has become substantially lower. Thus, with the contemporary HCC etiologies, the traditional screening approach might not be practical and cost-effective. HCC screening consists of (i) definition of rational at-risk population, and subsequent (ii) repeated application of early detection tests to the population at regular intervals. The suboptimal performance of the currently available HCC screening tests highlights an urgent need for new modalities and strategies to improve early HCC detection. In this review, we overview recent developments of clinical, molecular, and imaging-based tools to address the current challenge, and discuss conceptual framework and approaches of their clinical translation and implementation. These encouraging progresses are expected to transform the current "one-size-fits-all" HCC screening into individualized precision approaches to early HCC detection and ultimately improve the poor HCC prognosis in the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Te Lee
- California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Naoto Fujiwara
- Liver Tumor Translational Research Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California; Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California; Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Liver Tumor Translational Research Program, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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13
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Karim MA, Singal AG, Kum HC, Lee YT, Park S, Rich NE, Noureddin M, Yang JD. Prediagnostic CT or MRI Utilization and Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: SEER-Medicare Database Analysis. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 3:874-883. [PMID: 37377892 PMCID: PMC10187587 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound-based surveillance has suboptimal sensitivity for early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection, generating interest in alternative surveillance modalities. We aim to investigate the association between prediagnostic CT or MRI and overall survival in a contemporary cohort of patients with HCC. Using the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare database, we analyzed Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with HCC between 2011 and 2015. Proportion of time covered (PTC) was defined as the proportion of the 36-month period prior to HCC diagnosis in which patients had received abdominal imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to investigate the association between PTC and overall survival. Among 5,098 patients with HCC, 3,293 (65%) patients had abdominal imaging prior to HCC diagnosis, of whom 67% had CT/MRI. Median PTC by any abdominal imaging was 5.6% [interquartile range (IQR): 0%-36%], with few patients having PTC >50%. Compared with no abdominal images, ultrasound [adjusted HR (aHR): 0.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79-0.95] and CT/MRI group (aHR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.63-0.74) were associated with improved survival. Lead-time adjusted analysis showed improved survival continued to be observed with CT/MRI (aHR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.74-0.87) but not ultrasound (aHR: 1.00, 95% CI: 0.91-1.10). Increased PTC was associated with improved survival, with a larger effect size observed with CT/MRI (aHR per 10%: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.91-0.95) than ultrasound (aHR per 10%: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.95-0.98). In conclusion, PTC by abdominal images was associated with improved survival in patients with HCC, with potential greater benefit using CT/MRI. Regular utilization of CT/MRI before cancer diagnosis may have potential survival benefit compared to ultrasound in patients with HCC. Significance Our population-based study using SEER-Medicare database demonstrated that proportion of time covered by abdominal imaging was associated with improved survival in patients with HCC, with potential greater benefit using CT/MRI. The results suggest that CT/MRI surveillance may have potential survival benefit compared with ultrasound surveillance in high-risk patients for HCC. A larger prospective study should be conducted for external validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. Karim
- Population Informatics Lab, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Hye Chung Kum
- Population Informatics Lab, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Yi-Te Lee
- California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sulki Park
- Population Informatics Lab, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Nicole E. Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Mazen Noureddin
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
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14
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Daher D, Dahan KSE, Singal AG. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-related hepatocellular carcinoma. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:127-142. [PMID: 37384032 PMCID: PMC10202236 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2022.12.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), one of the most common causes of liver disease, is an increasingly common cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Several demographic, clinical, and genetic factors contribute to HCC risk in NAFLD patients, which may inform risk stratification scores. Proven efficacious approaches to primary prevention approach in patients with non-viral liver disease remain an area of need. Semi-annual surveillance is associated with improved early tumor detection and reduced HCC-related mortality; however, patients with NAFLD have several challenges to effective surveillance, including under-recognition of at-risk patients, low surveillance utilization in clinical practice, and lower sensitivity of current tools for early-stage HCC detection. Treatment decisions are best made in a multidisciplinary fashion and are informed by several factors including tumor burden, liver dysfunction, performance status, and patient preferences. Although patients with NAFLD often have larger tumor burden and increased comorbidities compared to counterparts, they can achieve similar post-treatment survival with careful patient selection. Therefore, surgical therapies continue to provide a curative treatment option for patients diagnosed at an early stage. Although there has been debate about the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with NAFLD, current data are insufficient to change treatment selection based on liver disease etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darine Daher
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Karim Seif El Dahan
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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15
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Saleh GA, Elmokadem AH, Razek AA, El-Morsy A, Hamdy O, Eleraky ES, Saleh M. Utility of diffusion tensor imaging in differentiating benign from malignant hepatic focal lesions. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:1400-1411. [PMID: 35982336 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-09091-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the diagnostic accuracy of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in the characterization of hepatic focal lesions (HFLs) and compare it to diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). METHODS Prospective analysis was done for 49 patients (23 male and 26 female) with 74 HFLs who underwent dynamic MRI, DWI, and DTI. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values from DWI, fractional anisotropy (FA) values, and mean diffusivity (MD) values from DTI were measured by two independent radiologists. HFLs were classified into benign and malignant HFLs; the latter were subdivided into HCC and non-HCC lesions. Binary logistic regression was performed to analyze the associations between the DTI parameters and the distinction of malignant lesions. RESULTS The ADC, MD, and FA at cutoff values of ≤ 1.17 × 10-3 mm2/s, ≤ 1.71 × 10-3 mm2/s, and > 0.29, respectively, are excellent discriminators for differentiating malignant and benign HFLs. The mean ADC and MD values of hemangiomas were significantly higher than HCC and non-HCC malignant lesions. In contrast, the mean FA values of hemangiomas were significantly lower than those of non-HCC malignant lesions and HCCs. The ADC and MD were very good discriminators at cutoff values of > 1.03 × 10-3 mm2/s and > 1.12 × 10-3 mm2/s, respectively. The FA at a cutoff value > 0.38 is an excellent discriminator for HCC versus non-HCC malignant lesions. Only FA value > 0.38 was a statistically significant independent predictor of HCC versus non-HCC lesions among the three parameters. There was an excellent inter-observer agreement with ICC > 0.9. CONCLUSION MD and FA of DTI are non-invasive, very good, and excellent discriminators superior to ADC measured by DWI for the differentiation of HFLs. KEY POINTS • The ADC, MD, and FA at cutoff values of ≤ 1.17 × 10-3 mm2/s, ≤ 1.71 × 10-3 mm2/s, and > 0.29, respectively, are excellent discriminators for differentiating malignant and benign HFLs. • The mean ADC and MD values of hemangiomas were significantly higher than those of HCC and non-HCC malignant lesions. In contrast, the mean FA values of hemangiomas were significantly lower than those of non-HCC malignant lesions and HCCs, respectively. • Multivariate regression analysis revealed that only FA value > 0.38 was a statistically significant independent predictor of HCC vs. non-HCC lesions. A lesion with FA > 0.38 has 34 times higher odds of being HCC rather than non-HCC lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gehad A Saleh
- Department of Radiology, Mansoura University, El Gomhoria St., Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Ali H Elmokadem
- Department of Radiology, Mansoura University, El Gomhoria St., Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Abdel Razek
- Department of Radiology, Mansoura University, El Gomhoria St., Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Ahmed El-Morsy
- Department of Radiology, Mansoura University, El Gomhoria St., Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Omar Hamdy
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Marwa Saleh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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16
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Adding MRI as a Surveillance Test for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis Can Improve Prognosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020382. [PMID: 36830919 PMCID: PMC9953123 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gadoxetic acid disodium (Gd-EOB-DTPA)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect early stages of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the survival benefit of Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI in the surveillance of patients with cirrhosis has not yet been determined. We explored whether the intermittent replacement of ultrasonography (USG) with Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI during HCC surveillance improved the clinical outcomes of patients with cirrhosis. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 421 HCC patients who were newly diagnosed during surveillance. Of these patients, 126 (29.9%) underwent surveillance based on Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI and USG (USG+MRI group). The patients (295, 70.1%) who did not undergo MRI during surveillance were referred to as the USG group. In the USG+MRI group, 120 (95.2%) of 126 patients were diagnosed with early-stage HCC, whereas 247 (83.7%) of 295 patients were diagnosed with early-stage HCC in the USG group (P = 0.009). The significantly longer overall survival and time to progression in patients in the USG+MRI group compared to the unmatched cohort USG group was consistently observed by inverse probability weighting and propensity score-matched analysis. Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI combined surveillance improved the detection of early-stage HCC and clinical outcomes such as overall survival and the time to progression in patients with cirrhosis.
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17
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Pugliese N, Alfarone L, Arcari I, Giugliano S, Parigi TL, Rescigno M, Lleo A, Aghemo A. Clinical features and management issues of NAFLD-related HCC: what we know so far. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:31-43. [PMID: 36576057 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2162503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is replacing viral hepatitis as the leading cause of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in many Western countries. NAFLD-associated HCC usually affects older patients with multiple comorbidities, frequently develops in the absence of cirrhosis, and is often diagnosed later with worse chance of survival. The worse prognosis is also due to limited surveillance strategies and a lower efficacy of standard treatments. AREAS COVERED We evaluate the available literature to understand the current surveillance strategies and treatment limitations in the workup of NAFLD-associated HCC, focusing on the differences with HCC associated with other liver diseases. EXPERT OPINION In this review we discuss epidemiology and risk factors for HCC in NAFLD patients and address key HCC surveillance and management issues. Although most data are still preliminary, the detection of non-cirrhotic NAFLD patients at increased risk for HCC and the potential adoption of novel screening tools could lead to accurate and suitable HCC surveillance and management strategies for NAFLD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pugliese
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ludovico Alfarone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Ivan Arcari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Giugliano
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology and Microbiota, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital - IRCCS, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rescigno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology and Microbiota, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital - IRCCS, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Ana Lleo
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Aghemo
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
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18
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Choi ES, Kim JS, Lee JK, Lee HA, Pak S. Prospective evaluation of low-dose multiphase hepatic computed tomography for detecting and characterizing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic liver disease. BMC Med Imaging 2022; 22:219. [PMID: 36536325 PMCID: PMC9762112 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-022-00947-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowing the lowest acceptable radiation dose of multiphase hepatic CT may allow us to reduce the radiation dose for detecting HCC. PURPOSE To prospectively assess the image quality and diagnostic performance of low-dose and ultra-low-dose multiphase hepatic computed tomography using a dual-source CT scanner. METHODS Three reconstructed different dose scan images (standard-dose, low-dose, and ultra-low-dose) of hepatic multiphase CT were obtained from 67 patients with a dual-source CT scanner. The image quality and the diagnostic performance of the three radiation dose CT scans of the hepatic focal lesion (≥ 0.5 cm) were analyzed by two independent readers using the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System. RESULTS Qualitative image quality and signal-to-noise ratio were significantly different among the radiation doses (p < 0.001). In total, 154 lesions comprising 32 hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and 122 non-HCC were included. The sensitivities of SDCT, LDCT, and ULDCT were 90.6%(29/32), 81.3%(26/32), and 56.2%(18/32), respectively. The accuracies of SDCT, LDCT, and ULDCT were 98.1%(151/154), 96.1%(148/154), and 89.6%(138/154), respectively. On per-lesion analysis, SDCT and LDCT did not show significantly different sensitivity and accuracy in diagnosing HCC (p = 0.250 and 0.250). CONCLUSIONS The diagnostic performance of dynamic hepatic LDCT with 33% reduced radiation dose in comparison to SDCT would be acceptable even though its image quality was qualitatively and quantitatively inferior. However, few HCCs could be overlooked. Therefore, with caution, radiation dose reduction by one-third could be implemented for follow-up CT scans for patients suspected of having HCC with caution and further studies are needed in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Sun Choi
- grid.255649.90000 0001 2171 7754Department of Radiology and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Sil Kim
- grid.255649.90000 0001 2171 7754Department of Radiology and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Kyong Lee
- grid.255649.90000 0001 2171 7754Department of Radiology and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Ah Lee
- grid.255649.90000 0001 2171 7754Clinical Trial Center, Mokdong Hospital, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seongyong Pak
- grid.267370.70000 0004 0533 4667Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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19
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Han S, Lee JM, Kim SW, Park S, Nickel MD, Yoon JH. Evaluation of HASTE T2 weighted image with reduced echo time for detecting focal liver lesions in patients at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Radiol 2022; 157:110588. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Singal AG, Reig M, Villanueva A. Emerging Tools for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Am J Gastroenterol 2022; 117:1948-1951. [PMID: 36114768 PMCID: PMC9722605 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Abdominal ultrasound, with or without alpha-fetoprotein, is the recommended strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance but misses over one-third of HCC at an early stage. Emerging imaging modalities, including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, have early data showing high sensitivity for early-stage HCC, but potential issues such as radiologic capacity, patient acceptance, cost-effectiveness, and need for validation in Western non-hepatitis B virus populations still need to be evaluated. Similarly, blood-based biomarker panels, including GALAD and liquid biopsy techniques, have shown promising data in phase II case-control studies and may concurrently help address issues of surveillance underuse; however, these tools require validation in phase III and IV cohort studies. While awaiting prospective validation data for these emerging strategies, ultrasound with or without alpha-fetoprotein remains the current gold standard HCC surveillance strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit G. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Maria Reig
- Liver Oncology Unit, Liver Unit, IMDiM, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona
- BCLC group, IDIBAPS
- CIBERehd
- Barcelona University
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Division of Liver Diseases, Division of Hematology/Medical Oncology, Liver Cancer Program, Tisch Cancer Institute, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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21
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Kim BH, Cho Y, Park JW. Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma: It is time to move forward. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:810-813. [PMID: 36064304 PMCID: PMC9597219 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Hyun Kim
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Yuri Cho
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Joong-Won Park
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea,Corresponding author : Joong-Won Park Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, 323 Ilsan-ro Ilsandong-gu, Goyang 10408, Korea Tel: +82-31-920-1605, Fax: +82-31-920-1520, E-mail:
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22
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Park HJ, Kim SY, Singal AG, Lee SJ, Won HJ, Byun JH, Choi SH, Yokoo T, Kim MJ, Lim YS. Abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging vs ultrasound for surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma in high-risk patients. Liver Int 2022; 42:2080-2092. [PMID: 34817921 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We aimed to compare the performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced abbreviated MRI (AMRI)-based surveillance and ultrasound-only surveillance in high-risk patients for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Prospectively recruited high-risk patients (>5% annual risk of HCC) who underwent one to three rounds of complete gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI (CMRI) and ultrasound at 6-months intervals were retrospectively analysed. AMRI consisted of diffusion-weighted, T2-weighted, and hepatobiliary phase imaging. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CMRI followed by AMRI (CAA), AMRI-only (AAA), and ultrasound-only (US) were compared using generalized estimating equations. Image quality was assessed. RESULTS In 382 patients, HCC was diagnosed in 43 (11.3%), including 42 with early-stage HCCs. The sensitivities of CAA (90.7%, 39/43) and AAA (86.0%, 37/43) were higher than US (27.9% [12/43]; P < 0.001), whereas the sensitivities of the two MRI approaches did not significantly differ (P = 0.56). The specificity of CAA (97.1%, 983/1012) was higher than AAA (95.6% [967/1012]; P = 0.01) and not significantly different from US (96.3% [975/1012]; P = 0.59). The CAA approach had the best accuracy of 96.9% (1022/1055), higher than the AAA approach (95.2% [1004/1055]; P = 0.01) and the US approach (93.6% [987/1055]; P = 0.01). Image quality was inadequate in 33.7% (356/1055) of US examinations but in only 10.0% (105/1055) of the AAA and 11.1% (117/1055) of the CAA approach. CONCLUSIONS In high-risk patients, AMRI-based surveillance approaches had higher sensitivities than ultrasound-only surveillance for early-stage HCC. A sequential MRI approach of CMRI followed by AMRIs showed superior accuracy than the AMRI-only or ultrasound-only approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Jung Park
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yeon Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - So Jung Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Jin Won
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ho Byun
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hyun Choi
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Takeshi Yokoo
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Suk Lim
- Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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23
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Jiang C, Zhao L, Xin B, Ma G, Wang X, Song S. 18F-FDG PET/CT radiomic analysis for classifying and predicting microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2022; 12:4135-4150. [PMID: 35919043 PMCID: PMC9338369 DOI: 10.21037/qims-21-1167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Microvascular invasion (MVI) is a critical risk factor for early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). The aim of this study was to explore the contribution of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) radiomic features for the preoperative prediction of HCC and ICC classification and MVI. Methods In this retrospective study, 127 (HCC: ICC =76:51) patients with suspected MVI accompanied by either HCC or ICC were included (In HCC group, MVI positive: negative =46:30 in ICC group, MVI positive: negative =31:20). Results-driven feature engineering workflow was used to select the most predictive feature combinations. The prediction model was based on supervised machine learning classifier. Ten-fold cross validation on training cohort and independent test cohort were constructed to ensure stability and generalization ability of models. Results For HCC and ICC classification, radiomics predictors composed of two PET and one CT feature achieved area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86 (accuracy, sensitivity, specificity was 0.82, 0.78, 0.88, respectively) on test cohort. For MVI prediction, in HCC group, our MVI prediction model achieved AUC of 0.88 (accuracy, sensitivity, specificity was 0.78, 0.88, 0.60 respectively) with three PET features associated with tumor stage on test cohort. In ICC group, the phenotype composed of two PET features and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) achieved AUC of 0.90 (accuracy, sensitivity, specificity was 0.77, 0.75, 0.80, respectively). Conclusions 18F-FDG PET/CT radiomic features integrating clinical factors have potential in HCC and ICC classification and MVI prediction, while PET features have dominant predictive power in model performance. The prediction model has value in providing a non-invasive biomarker for an earlier indication and comprehensive quantification of primary liver cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjuan Jiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging Probes, Shanghai, China
| | - Liwei Zhao
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bowen Xin
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Guang Ma
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging Probes, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuying Wang
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shaoli Song
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Imaging Probes, Shanghai, China
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Two-Phase MDCT Protocol for the Screening of Small Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154282. [PMID: 35893371 PMCID: PMC9330229 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Screening programmes for cirrhotic patients are based on ultrasound (US) examinations at 6-month intervals, but a US sensitivity of 47% has recently been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate a two-phase MDCT protocol in terms of hepatic nodule detection within a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening situation and to evaluate a reduction in irradiation dose for the 6-monthly checks compared to the classic four-phase protocol. In total, 373 patients with 498 nodules that were suspected to be HCC and ranged from 10 to 30 mm in size were prospectively included. All patients underwent four-phase MDCT with an unenhanced phase, arterial phase (AP), portal phase (PP) and delayed phase (DP). The cumulative irradiation from the repeated 6-monthly MDCT protocol was calculated. Of the 498 nodules, only 4 (0.008%) were only seen in the PP and not in the AP or AP. Of the 319 HCC nodules, 270 (84.6%) had AP hyperenhancement, while 115 had washout in the PP and 224 had washout in the DP. Overall, 222 of the 224 (99.1%) HCC nodules with typical features were seen in the AP and DP. The dose reduction was estimated at 55.4% when using the two-phase protocol (AP and DP). The cumulative irradiation of the two-phase protocol, which was performed every 6 months over 5 years, was 96.5 mSv. MDCT with the two-phase protocol could offer an alternative to ultrasound screening with an interesting risk–benefit trade-off.
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25
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Melendez-Torres J, Singal AG. Early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma: roadmap for improvement. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2022; 22:621-632. [PMID: 35514249 PMCID: PMC9845108 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2022.2074404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a poor prognosis, related, in part, to frequent late-stage diagnosis. Improved implementation of effective HCC surveillance is critical to reduce HCC mortality. AREAS COVERED We performed a targeted literature review to identify intervention targets for improving HCC surveillance effectiveness, including enriched risk stratification tools, improved surveillance tools with higher accuracy for early HCC detection, and increasing surveillance adherence. EXPERT OPINION HCC surveillance has been demonstrated to be efficacious in several cohort studies but has lower surveillance effectiveness in clinical practice. HCC surveillance is currently recommended in all patients with cirrhosis, and improved risk stratification using clinical risk scores, genetic scores, and novel biomarkers are important to move from a 'one-size-fits-all' strategy to one more aligned with values of precision medicine. Current surveillance modalities, ultrasound, and AFP, miss over one-third of HCC at an early stage and are associated with potential surveillance harms, underscoring a need for alternative surveillance strategies with higher accuracy. MRI- and biomarker-based surveillance strategies have promising early data in phase II studies but require validation in phase III cohorts before routine use in practice. Finally, surveillance is underused in clinical practice, highlighting a need for intervention strategies to increase utilization.
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26
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Park HJ, Lee TY, Kim SY, Kim MJ, Singal AG, Lee SJ, Won HJ, Byun JH, Lim YS. Hypervascular transformation of hepatobiliary phase hypointense nodules without arterial phase hyperenhancement on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI: long-term follow-up in a surveillance cohort. Eur Radiol 2022; 32:5064-5074. [PMID: 35229195 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-08623-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With the increasing use of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for HCC surveillance, hepatobiliary phase (HBP) hypointense nodules without arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE) are frequently encountered. We investigated the rate of these nodules with hypervascular transformation, which suggests hepatocarcinogenesis, by using a prospectively collected longitudinal surveillance cohort data. METHODS This study included 382 prospectively enrolled patients at high risk for developing HCC who underwent 1-3 rounds of bi-annual surveillance gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI. MRI was analyzed to detect HBP hypointense nodules without APHE. Follow-up dynamic CTs and MRIs were evaluated to detect hypervascular transformation of the nodules. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to find predictors for hypervascular transformation. RESULTS A total of 76 HBP hypointense nodules without APHE were found in 48 patients, giving a prevalence of 12.6% (48/382). The mean nodule size was 10.8 mm, with 43.4% (33/76) being ≥ 10 mm. Over a median follow-up of 78.6 months, 19 nodules (25.0%) showed hypervascular transformation, all of which demonstrated typical imaging features of HCC. On multivariable Cox-regression analysis, size (≥ 10 mm) was the only independent predictor of hypervascular transformation (hazard ratio, 3.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-9.05). The cumulative incidence of hypervascular transformation at 12 and 60 months of nodules ≥ 10 mm was 12.3% and 50.4%, respectively, while that of nodules < 10 mm was 2.5% and 13.9%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS About half of the HBP hypointense nodules ≥ 10 mm without APHE transformed to HCC at 5 years of follow-up, indicating the necessity for cautious monitoring with an augmented and extended follow-up schedule for these nodules. KEY POINTS • The prevalence of HBP hypointense nodules without APHE was 12.6% in a prospectively recruited population at high risk of developing HCC. • Nodule size ≥ 10 mm was significantly associated with hypervascular transformation, and approximately half of the HBP hypointense nodules ≥ 10 mm without APHE transformed to HCC during 5 years of follow-up. • Given the risk of malignant transformation, HBP hypointense nodules ≥ 10 mm without APHE should be closely monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Jung Park
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Young Lee
- Department of Radiology, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yeon Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea. .,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Amit G Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - So Jung Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Jin Won
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ho Byun
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Suk Lim
- Liver Cancer Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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27
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Park HJ, Seo N, Kim SY. Current Landscape and Future Perspectives of Abbreviated MRI for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Korean J Radiol 2022; 23:598-614. [PMID: 35434979 PMCID: PMC9174497 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2021.0896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
While ultrasound (US) is considered an important tool for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance, it has limited sensitivity for detecting early-stage HCC. Abbreviated MRI (AMRI) has recently gained popularity owing to better sensitivity in its detection of early-stage HCC than US, while also minimizing the time and cost in comparison to complete contrast-enhanced MRI, as AMRI includes only a few essential sequences tailored for detecting HCC. Currently, three AMRI protocols exist, namely gadoxetic acid-enhanced hepatobiliary-phase AMRI, dynamic contrast-enhanced AMRI, and non-enhanced AMRI. In this study, we discussed the rationale and technical details of AMRI techniques for achieving optimal surveillance performance. The strengths, weaknesses, and current issues of each AMRI protocol were also elucidated. Moreover, we scrutinized previously performed AMRI studies regarding clinical and technical factors. Reporting and recall strategies were discussed while considering the differences in AMRI protocols. A risk-stratified approach for the target population should be taken to maximize the benefits of AMRI and the cost-effectiveness should be considered. In the era of multiple HCC surveillance tools, patients need to be fully informed about their choices for better adherence to a surveillance program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Jung Park
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Nieun Seo
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiological Science, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - So Yeon Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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28
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Kim SY, Lim YS. Towards a New Horizon for Individualized Surveillance Tools in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:25-27. [PMID: 33940226 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- So Yeon Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Suk Lim
- Department of Gastroenterology, Liver Center, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
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29
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An J. [Current Status and Future Directions of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Test Based on Cost-effective Analysis]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2021; 78:255-260. [PMID: 34824183 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2021.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at an early stage enables patients to receive curative treatment with survival gains. Current international liver society guidelines recommend the enrollment of patients at high risk for HCC in surveillance programs. In Korea, surveillance for HCC advocated for patients with chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C, and liver cirrhosis. The established surveillance tool for HCC is liver ultrasonography plus serum alpha-fetoprotein measurement every 6 months. However, there would be obstacles to the improvement of efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the HCC surveillance test. Assessing who is at risk of developing HCC remains incompletely validated. Also, which surveillance tools to use according to patients' characteristics are controversial. The present paper reviews the latest knowledge regarding the strategies and cost-effectiveness of HCC surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun An
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea
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30
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Adeniji N, Dhanasekaran R. Current and Emerging Tools for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:1972-1986. [PMID: 34533885 PMCID: PMC8631096 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. Early detection of HCC enables patients to avail curative therapies that can improve patient survival. Current international guidelines advocate for the enrollment of patients at high risk for HCC, like those with cirrhosis, in surveillance programs that perform ultrasound every 6 months. In recent years, many studies have further characterized the utility of established screening strategies and have introduced new promising tools for HCC surveillance. In this review, we provide an overview of the most promising new imaging modalities and biomarkers for the detection of HCC. We discuss the role of imaging tools like ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the early detection of HCC, and describe recent innovations which can potentially enhance their applicability, including contrast enhanced ultrasound, low‐dose CT scans, and abbreviated MRI. Next, we outline the data supporting the use of three circulating biomarkers (i.e., alpha‐fetoprotein [AFP], AFP lens culinaris agglutinin‐reactive fraction, and des‐gamma‐carboxy prothrombin) in HCC surveillance, and expand on multiple emerging liquid biopsy biomarkers, including methylated cell‐free DNA (cfDNA), cfDNA mutations, extracellular vesicles, and circulating tumor cells. These promising new imaging modalities and biomarkers have the potential to improve early detection, and thus improve survival, in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nia Adeniji
- Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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31
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Kudo M. Surveillance, Diagnosis, and Treatment Outcomes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Japan: 2021 Update. Liver Cancer 2021; 10:167-180. [PMID: 34239807 PMCID: PMC8237798 DOI: 10.1159/000516491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kindai University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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32
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Moura Cunha G, Chernyak V, Fowler KJ, Sirlin CB. Up-to-Date Role of CT/MRI LI-RADS in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2021; 8:513-527. [PMID: 34104640 PMCID: PMC8180267 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s268288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide and a major healthcare burden in most societies. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a pivotal role in the medical care of patients with or at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). When stringent imaging criteria are fulfilled, CT and MRI allow for diagnosis, staging, and assessment of response to treatment, without the need for invasive workup, and can inform clinical decision making. Owing to the central role of these imaging modalities in HCC management, standardization is essential to facilitate proper imaging technique, accurate interpretation, and clear communication among all stakeholders in both the clinical practice and research settings. The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is a comprehensive system that provides standardization across the continuum of HCC imaging, including ordinal probabilistic approach for reporting that directs individualized management. This review discusses the up-to-date role of CT and MRI in HCC imaging from the LI-RADS perspective. It also provides a glimpse into the future by discussing how advances in knowledge and technology are likely to enrich the LI-RADS approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Moura Cunha
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Victoria Chernyak
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kathryn J Fowler
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Claude B Sirlin
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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33
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Sangiovanni A, Colombo M. Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with advanced liver fibrosis. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:64-72. [PMID: 33723094 PMCID: PMC8183361 DOI: 10.4103/sjg.sjg_636_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Surveillance is the only pragmatic approach to improve treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) owing to the fact that it allows detection of the tumor at an early and better curable stage. International liver societies recommend surveillance with biannual abdominal ultrasound (US) for patients with cirrhosis of any etiology because of their high risk of developing HCC. This strategy is considered cost-effective, as surveillance requires an articulated and costly set of interventions, including linkage to care of patients with an early detected tumor. However, as transition to HCC is increasingly being observed in noncirrhotic patients, the majority of which does not reach the threshold of cost effectiveness for screening. The European and Japanese liver societies elected to confine recommendations for HCC screening to noncirrhotic patients with advanced fibrosis due to hepatitis C or hepatitis B only. These latter recommendations, however, are challenged by the increasing number of patients with viral hepatitis in whom HCC risk has been attenuated but not eradicated by successful antiviral therapy. In this set of patients, entry criteria of surveillance need to be refined in the light of the suboptimal diagnostic accuracy of non invasive tests that are employed to identify the ideal candidates for surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Sangiovanni
- IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, CRC “A. M. and A. Migliavacca” Center for Liver Disease, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Colombo
- Liver Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy,Address for correspondence: Prof. Massimo Colombo, Liver Center, IRCCS, Ospedale San Raffaele Hospital, Via Olgettina, 60 Milan, Italy. E-mail:
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