Hepatocellular carcinoma: ESMO–ESDO Clinical Practice Guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up

Abstract

The oncologic community is faced with a steady increase in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) [1]. Liver cancer represents the sixth most common cancer in the world (749 000 new cases) and the third cause of cancer-related death (692 000 cases). The incidence varies from 3 out of 100 000 in Western countries, to more than 15 out of 100 000 in certain areas of the world, mapping the geographical distribution of viral hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV), the most important causes of chronic liver disease and HCC [2]. Most cases arise in those regions with limited resources. The incidence of HCC increases progressively with advancing age in all populations, with a strong male preponderance.