Helen Reeves

Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of primary liver cancer, is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide1,2. HCC occurs typically from a background of chronic liver disease, caused by a spectrum of predisposing conditions. Tumour development is driven by the expansion of clones that accumulate progressive driver mutations3, with hepatocytes the most likely cell of origin2.

Introduction The selection of treatment modality depends as much on the underlying liver function and degree of portal hypertension as on the oncological stage of the tumour, as well as the patient’s performance status. In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, treatment options apart from liver transplantation are severely restricted. In patients with compensated liver disease, multiple treatment options are potentially available.

Introduction The selection of treatment modality depends as much on the underlying liver function and degree of portal hypertension as on the oncological stage of the tumour, as well as the patient’s performance status. In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, treatment options apart from liver transplantation are severely restricted. In patients with compensated liver disease, multiple treatment options are potentially available.