MASLD-Related Hepatocarcinoma: Special Features and Challenges

J Clin Med. 2024 Aug 8;13(16):4657. doi: 10.3390/jcm13164657.

Abstract

Metabolic-associated steatohepatitis liver disease (MASLD) currently impacts a quarter of the global population, and its incidence is expected to increase in the future. As a result, hepatocellular carcinoma associated with MASLD is also on the rise. Notably, this carcinoma does not always develop alongside liver cirrhosis, often leading to a more advanced stage at diagnosis. The challenge lies in accurately identifying patients who are at a higher risk to tailor screening processes effectively. Additionally, several therapeutic approaches are being explored to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma, although there are no universally accepted guidelines yet.

Keywords: NAFLD; NASH; cirrhosis; hepatocellular carcinoma; prevention; surveillance.

Publication types

  • Review

Grants and funding

This research was supported by grants from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III-Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional “ERDF, A way of making Europe” (PI22/01366 and PMP21/00094), and the Fondo Social Europeo-Gobierno de Aragón (B03_23R).