1
|
Sanchez JI, Fontillas AC, Kwan SY, Sanchez CI, Calderone TL, Lee JL, Elsaiey A, Cleere DW, Wei P, Vierling JM, Victor DW, Beretta L. Metabolomics biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma in a prospective cohort of patients with cirrhosis. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101119. [PMID: 39139459 PMCID: PMC11321296 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims The effectiveness of surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis is limited, due to inadequate risk stratification and suboptimal performance of current screening modalities. Methods We developed a multicenter prospective cohort of patients with cirrhosis undergoing surveillance with MRI and applied global untargeted metabolomics to 612 longitudinal serum samples from 203 patients. Among them, 37 developed HCC during follow-up. Results We identified 150 metabolites with significant abundance changes in samples collected prior to HCC (Cases) compared to samples from patients who did not develop HCC (Controls). Tauro-conjugated bile acids and gamma-glutamyl amino acids were increased, while acyl-cholines and deoxycholate derivatives were decreased. Seven amino acids including serine and alanine had strong associations with HCC risk, while strong protective effects were observed for N-acetylglycine and glycerophosphorylcholine. Machine learning using the 150 metabolites, age, gender, and PNPLA3 and TMS6SF2 single nucleotide polymorphisms, identified 15 variables giving optimal performance. Among them, N-acetylglycine had the highest AUC in discriminating Cases and Controls. When restricting Cases to samples collected within 1 year prior to HCC (Cases-12M), additional metabolites including microbiota-derived metabolites were identified. The combination of the top six variables identified by machine learning (alpha-fetoprotein, 6-bromotryptophan, N-acetylglycine, salicyluric glucuronide, testosterone sulfate and age) had good performance in discriminating Cases-12M from Controls (AUC 0.88, 95% CI 0.83-0.93). Finally, 23 metabolites distinguished Cases with LI-RADS-3 lesions from Controls with LI-RADS-3 lesions, with reduced abundance of acyl-cholines and glycerophosphorylcholine-related lysophospholipids in Cases. Conclusions This study identified N-acetylglycine, amino acids, bile acids and choline-derived metabolites as biomarkers of HCC risk, and microbiota-derived metabolites as contributors to HCC development. Impact and implications The effectiveness of surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis is limited. There is an urgent need for improvement in risk stratification and new screening modalities, particularly blood biomarkers. Longitudinal collection of paired blood samples and MRI images from patients with cirrhosis is particularly valuable in assessing how early blood and imaging markers become positive during the period when lesions are observed to obtain a diagnosis of HCC. We generated a multicenter prospective cohort of patients with cirrhosis under surveillance with contrast MRI, applied untargeted metabolomics on 612 serum samples from 203 patients and identified metabolites associated with risk of HCC development. Such biomarkers may significantly improve early-stage HCC detection for patients with cirrhosis undergoing HCC surveillance, a critical step to increasing curative treatment opportunities and reducing mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica I. Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Antoine C. Fontillas
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Suet-Ying Kwan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Caren I. Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tiffany L. Calderone
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jana L. Lee
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ahmed Elsaiey
- Department of Gastroenterology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Darrel W. Cleere
- Department of Gastroenterology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Peng Wei
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John M. Vierling
- Margaret M. and Albert B. Alkek Department of Medicine, Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David W. Victor
- Department of Gastroenterology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Laura Beretta
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Maung ST, Tanpowpong N, Satja M, Treeprasertsuk S, Chaiteerakij R. MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma and the role of abbreviated MRI for surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 38899804 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes the majority of liver cancers and significantly impacts global cancer mortality. While ultrasound (US) with or without alpha-fetoprotein is the mainstay for HCC surveillance, its limitations highlight the necessity for more effective surveillance tools. Therefore, this review explores evolving imaging modalities and abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (AMRI) protocols as promising alternatives, addressing challenges in HCC surveillance. AREAS COVERED This comprehensive review delves into the evaluation and challenges of HCC surveillance tools, focusing on non-contrast abbreviated MRI (NC-AMRI) and contrast-enhanced abbreviated MRI protocols. It covers the implementation of AMRI for HCC surveillance, patient preferences, adherence, and strategies for optimizing cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the article provides insights into prospects for HCC surveillance by summarizing meta-analyses, prospective studies, and ongoing clinical trials evaluating AMRI protocols. EXPERT OPINION The opinions underscore the transformative impact of AMRI on HCC surveillance, especially in overcoming US limitations. Promising results from NC-AMRI protocols indicate its potential for high-risk patient surveillance, though prospective studies in true surveillance settings are essential for validation. Future research should prioritize risk-stratified AMRI protocols and address cost-effectiveness for broader clinical implementation, alongside comparative analyses with US for optimal surveillance strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soe Thiha Maung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Ma Har Myaing Hospital, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Natthaporn Tanpowpong
- Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Minchanat Satja
- Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sombat Treeprasertsuk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Roongruedee Chaiteerakij
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sadler L, Jones H, Whiting P, Rogers M, Watt K, Cramp M, Ryder S, Stein K, Welton N, Oppe F, Bell J, Rogers G. Diagnostic accuracy of serological and imaging tests used in surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma in adults with cirrhosis: a systematic review protocol. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2024; 3:23. [PMID: 39139275 PMCID: PMC11320044 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13409.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Background Liver cirrhosis is the largest risk factor for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and surveillance is therefore recommended among this population. Current guidance recommends surveillance with ultrasound, with or without alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). This review is part of a larger project looking at benefits, harms and costs of surveillance for HCC in people with cirrhosis. It aims to synthesise the evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of imaging or biomarker tests, alone or in combination, to identify HCC in adults with liver cirrhosis in a surveillance programme. Methods We will identify studies through a 2021 Cochrane review with similar eligibility criteria, and a database search of MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. We will include diagnostic test accuracy studies with adult cirrhosis patients of any aetiology. Studies must assess at least one of the following index tests: ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerised tomography (CT), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), des-gamma-carboxyprothrombin (DCP), lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP (AFP-L3), a genomic biomarker, or a diagnostic prediction model incorporating at least one of the above-mentioned tests. We will assess studies for risk of bias using QUADAS-2 and QUADAS-C. We will combine data using bivariate random effects meta-analyses. For tests evaluated across varying diagnostic thresholds, we will produce pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity across the full range of numerical thresholds, where possible. Where sufficient studies compare two or more index tests, we will perform additional analyses to compare the accuracy of different tests. Where feasible, we will stratify all meta-analyses by tumour size and patient characteristics, including cirrhosis aetiology and liver disease severity. Discussion This review will synthesise evidence across the full range of possible surveillance tests, using advanced statistical methods to summarise accuracy across all thresholds and to compare the accuracy of different tests. PROSPERO registration CRD42022357163.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Libby Sadler
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | - Hayley Jones
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | - Penny Whiting
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | | | - Kelsey Watt
- Radiology Department, Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny, Wales, UK
| | - Matthew Cramp
- Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England, UK
| | - Stephen Ryder
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ken Stein
- Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, England, UK
| | - Nicky Welton
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | - Felicity Oppe
- Patient and Public Involvement, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - John Bell
- Patient and Public Involvement, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gabriel Rogers
- Manchester Centre for Health Economics, The University of Manchester, Manchester, England, N13 NPL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bo Z, Song J, He Q, Chen B, Chen Z, Xie X, Shu D, Chen K, Wang Y, Chen G. Application of artificial intelligence radiomics in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. Comput Biol Med 2024; 173:108337. [PMID: 38547656 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108337] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, with an increasing incidence and poor prognosis. In the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) technology has undergone rapid development in the field of clinical medicine, bringing the advantages of efficient data processing and accurate model construction. Promisingly, AI-based radiomics has played an increasingly important role in the clinical decision-making of HCC patients, providing new technical guarantees for prediction, diagnosis, and prognostication. In this review, we evaluated the current landscape of AI radiomics in the management of HCC, including its diagnosis, individual treatment, and survival prognosis. Furthermore, we discussed remaining challenges and future perspectives regarding the application of AI radiomics in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Bo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiatao Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qikuan He
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ziyan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaozai Xie
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Danyang Shu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Kaiyu Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; Zhejiang-Germany Interdisciplinary Joint Laboratory of Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Tumor and Bioengineering, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yeo YH, Lee YT, Tseng HR, Zhu Y, You S, Agopian VG, Yang JD. Alpha-fetoprotein: Past, present, and future. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0422. [PMID: 38619448 PMCID: PMC11019827 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein that plays an important role in immune regulation with critical involvement in early human development and maintaining the immune balance during pregnancy. Postfetal development, the regulatory mechanisms controlling AFP undergo a shift and AFP gene transcription is suppressed. Instead, these enhancers refocus their activity to maintain albumin gene transcription throughout adulthood. During the postnatal period, AFP expression can increase in the setting of hepatocyte injury, regeneration, and malignant transformation. It is the first oncoprotein discovered and is routinely used as part of a screening strategy for HCC. AFP has been shown to be a powerful prognostic biomarker, and multiple HCC prognosis models confirmed the independent prognostic utility of AFP. AFP is also a useful predictive biomarker for monitoring the treatment response of HCC. In addition to its role as a biomarker, AFP plays important roles in immune modulation to promote tumorigenesis and thus has been investigated as a therapeutic target in HCC. In this review article, we aim to provide an overview of AFP, encompassing the discovery, biological role, and utility as an HCC biomarker in combination with other biomarkers and how it impacts clinical practice and future direction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yee Hui Yeo
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yi-Te Lee
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hsian-Rong Tseng
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yazhen Zhu
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, California NanoSystems Institute, Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ronald Reagan Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Sungyong You
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Vatche G. Agopian
- Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Comprehensive Transplant Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mezzacappa C, Wang Z, Lu L, Risch H, Taddei T, Yu H. Detection of hepatocellular carcinoma methylation markers in salivary DNA. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20232063. [PMID: 38457142 PMCID: PMC10958141 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20232063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alterations to DNA methylation have been identified in both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumor and circulating DNA from affected individuals. These markers have potential utility in HCC screening. Adherence to HCC screening is poor and acceptable HCC screening tests are needed. METHODS A feasibility study was performed on a subset of case patients and control subjects from a prior study of risk factors for HCC. Case patients (n=12) included adults aged 47-85 years with a first diagnosis of HCC between 2011 and 2016 and without viral hepatitis. Control subjects (n=12) were matched on age, sex, and state of residence. Participants provided saliva samples for DNA genotyping. Log fold change in salivary DNA methylation at 1359 CpG sites representing 25 candidate genes previously associated with HCC was compared across case patients and control subjects. RESULTS The quantity of DNA ranged from 9.65 to 257.79 μg. The purity of DNA isolates was good, with mean OD260/280 ratio of 1.78 (SD: 0.14). Of 25 candidate genes, 16 had at ≥1 CpG site with detectable differences in methylation across HCC case patients and control subjects. Sites differentially methylated in HCC case patients included genes encoding tumor suppressors (PRDM2, RUNX3, p15/16, and RASSF1/5), regulators of cell cycle progression (DAPK1 and TP73), and DNA repair (MGMT and GSTP1). No associations met the significance threshold 3.7 × 10-5 required for multiple comparisons. CONCLUSIONS Salivary DNA may be a feasible alternative to blood samples in the era of novel DNA-based screening tests for HCC. The ease of saliva-based testing supports further investigation of its potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Mezzacappa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Zhanwei Wang
- University of Hawai’i Cancer Consortium, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Harvey Risch
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Tamar Taddei
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Herbert Yu
- University of Hawai’i Cancer Consortium, Honolulu, HI, United States
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chhatwal J, Samur S, Yang JD, Roberts LR, Nguyen MH, Ozbay AB, Ayer T, Parikh ND, Singal AG. Effectiveness of HCC surveillance programs using multitarget blood test: A modeling study. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0146. [PMID: 37204402 PMCID: PMC10538878 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effectiveness of ultrasound-based surveillance for HCC in patients with cirrhosis is limited by suboptimal sensitivity for early tumor detection and poor adherence. Emerging blood-based biomarkers have been proposed as an alternative surveillance strategy. We aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of a multitarget HCC blood test (mt-HBT)-with and without improved adherence-against ultrasound-based HCC surveillance. METHODS We developed a Markov-based mathematical model that simulated a virtual trial in patients with compensated cirrhosis comparing potential surveillance strategies: biannual surveillance using ultrasound, ultrasound plus AFP, and mt-HBT with or without improved adherence (+10% increase). We used published data to inform underlying liver disease progression rates, HCC tumor growth patterns, performance characteristics of surveillance modalities, and efficacy of treatments. Primary outcomes of interest were the number of early-stage HCCs detected and life years gained. RESULTS Per 100,000 patients with cirrhosis, mt-HBT detected 1680 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound alone and 350 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound + AFP, yielding an additional 5720 and 1000 life years, respectively. mt-HBT with improved adherence detected 2200 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound and 880 more early-stage HCCs than ultrasound + AFP, yielding an additional 8140 and 3420 life years, respectively. The number of screening tests needed to detect one HCC case was 139 with ultrasound, 122 with ultrasound + AFP, 119 with mt-HBT, and 124 with mt-HBT with improved adherence. CONCLUSIONS mt-HBT is a promising alternative to ultrasound-based HCC surveillance, particularly given anticipated improved adherence with blood-based biomarkers could increase HCC surveillance effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jagpreet Chhatwal
- Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Technology Assessment, Harvard Medical School, Department of Radiology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Dana Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Ju Dong Yang
- Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lewis R. Roberts
- Mayo Clinic, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mindie H. Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | | | - Turgay Ayer
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Emory Medical School, Department of Internal Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Amit G. Singal
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Dallas, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Seif El Dahan K, Daher D, Singal AG. Hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin Mol Hepatol 2023; 29:S207-S219. [PMID: 36103899 PMCID: PMC10029960 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) may progress to cirrhotic or non-cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is currently recognized as the fastest growing cause of HCC worldwide. Accordingly, professional society guidelines recommend HCC surveillance in patients with cirrhosis from any etiology, and some may consider it beneficial in subgroups with non-cirrhotic NAFLD at higher risk for HCC. Notably, patients with NAFLD-related HCC are more likely to have HCC diagnosed at more advanced stages and have poorer outcomes when compared to other etiologies, and suboptimal effectiveness of HCC surveillance programs is a major culprit. In this review, we summarize the current guidelines for HCC surveillance and discuss its benefits versus potential harms for NAFLD patients. We also address the unique challenges of HCC surveillance in NAFLD, including higher proportion of NAFLD-related HCC without cirrhosis, poor recognition of at-risk patients, lack of consensus regarding the value of surveillance in non-cirrhotic NAFLD, subpar effectiveness of surveillance tools related to NAFLD phenotype, and preponderant surveillance underuse among NAFLD patients. Finally, we examine the effectiveness of currently used surveillance tools (i.e., ultrasound and alpha fetoprotein) and outline future perspectives including emerging risk stratification tools, imaging surveillance strategies (e.g., abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging protocols), blood-based biomarkers (e.g., GALAD and circulating tumor DNA panels), and interventions to improve surveillance adherence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Seif El Dahan
- Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Darine Daher
- 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
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Norero B, Dufour JF. Should we undertake surveillance for HCC in patients with MAFLD? Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2023; 14:20420188231160389. [PMID: 37006779 PMCID: PMC10052487 DOI: 10.1177/20420188231160389] [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: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has become an important public health issue worldwide. In many countries, MAFLD has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease. On the contrary, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality is rising. Liver tumors have become the third cause of cancer mortality worldwide. HCC is the most frequent liver tumor. While the burden of HCC related to viral hepatitis is declining, the prevalence of MAFLD-related HCC is rising rapidly. Classical screening criteria for HCC consider cirrhotic, advanced fibrosis, and viral hepatitis patients. Metabolic syndrome with liver involvement or MAFLD is associated with a higher risk of HCC development, even in the absence of cirrhosis. The question about the cost effectiveness of surveillance for HCC in MAFLD is yet not fully answered. There are no guidelines that address the question of when to start or how to define the population who can benefit of surveillance for HCC in MAFLD patients. This review aims to revise the evidence of HCC development in MAFLD. It hopes to be a step closer to defining screening criteria for HCC in MAFLD.
Collapse
|
11
|
Nguyen MH, Roberts LR, Engel-Nitz NM, Bancroft T, Ozbay AB, Singal AG. Gaps in hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance in a United States cohort of insured patients with cirrhosis. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:2163-2173. [PMID: 36111416 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2124070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is known to be underutilized; however, neither the variation of surveillance adherence by cirrhosis etiology nor the patient-side economic burden of surveillance are well understood. To identify potential barriers to HCC surveillance, we assessed utilization patterns and costs among US patients with cirrhosis monitored in routine clinical practice. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study of insured adult patients with cirrhosis using national administrative claims data from January 2013 through June 2019. Time up-to-date with recommended surveillance, correlates of surveillance receipt, and surveillance-associated costs were assessed during a ≥ 6-month follow-up. RESULTS Among 15,543 patients with cirrhosis (mean [SD] age 64.0 [11.1] years, 50.7% male), 45.8% and 58.7% had received any abdominal imaging at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Patients were up-to-date with recommended surveillance for only 31% of a median 1.3-year follow-up. Those with viral hepatitis were more likely to receive surveillance than those with other etiologies (hazard ratio [HR] 1.55, 95% CI 1.11-2.17, p = .010 for patients without a baseline gastroenterologist [GI] visit and 2.69, 95% CI 1.77-4.09, p < .001 for patients with a GI visit, relative to those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and no GI visit). For all etiologies except NAFLD, the HR (95% CI) for surveillance receipt was higher among patients with vs without a baseline GI visit (alcohol-related, 1.164 [1.002-1.351] vs 0.880 [0.796-0.972]; viral hepatitis, 2.688 [1.765-4.093] vs 1.553 [1.111-2.171]; Other, 0.612 [0.519-0.722] vs 0.549 [0.470-0.641]). Mean total and patient-paid daily surveillance-related costs ranged from $540 and $113, respectively (ultrasound) to $1580 and $300, respectively (magnetic resonance imaging), and mean estimated patient productivity costs were $730-$2514 annually. CONCLUSION HCC surveillance was underutilized and was lowest among patients with nonviral etiologies and those who had not seen a gastroenterologist. Surveillance-related out-of-pocket expenses and lost productivity were substantial. The development of surveillance strategies that reduce patient burden, such as those using blood-based biomarkers, may help improve surveillance adherence and effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mindie H Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Amit G Singal
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- North American Liver Cancer Consortium
| |
Collapse
|