Hepatitis C virus protein interaction network for HCV clearance and association of DAA to HCC occurrence via data mining approach: A systematic review and critical analysis

Association between direct-acting antiviral agents in hepatitis C virus treatment and hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence and recurrence: The endless debate

Since direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have been introduced into hepatitis C virus treatment, the sustained viral response (SVR) rate has significantly increased to more than 95%. Scientific evidence supports the idea that SVR after interferon therapy has beneficial effects related to cirrhosis progression, resulting in a reduction in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, a significant debate exists related to DAA impact on HCC development. We reviewed the current literature highlighting the controversial data related to DAA association with de novo HCC occurrence or recurrence and possible pathophysiology of HCC related to DAAs. After a review of the published literature, we believe that the current evidence does not confirm or repudiate a higher rate of de novo HCC occurrence or recurrence related to DAA therapy. More trials are needed to determine if there is an association between HCC occurrence or recurrence and DAA or if it is related to preexisting liver cirrhosis.

Hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after directly acting antivirals for chronic hepatitis C: a 2-year follow-up study

AIM OF THE STUDY

Data regarding hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence after directly acting antivirals for hepatitis C are contradictory. Our aim was to study the HCC recurrence in patients who received directly acting antivirals after tumor ablation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study included all Child-Pugh A and B patients with hepatitis C related < 5 cm single or up to 3 HCC without any vascular or extrahepatic involvement whose lesions were managed using microwave or radiofrequency ablation at the Internal Medicine Department of Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, in the period from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2016, and then received directly acting antivirals.

RESULTS

Data from 52 patients were analyzed. Throughout the 2 years from ablation, 42.3% of patients experienced tumor recurrence (22 out of 52 patients). In addition, two subjects died and 4 subjects were lost to follow-up before any tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our study included both modified Child-Pugh A and B patients and included lesions up to 5 cm treated using thermal ablation, the 2-year HCC recurrence rate was similar to that previously reported after surgical resection or radiofrequency ablation of lesions up to 3 cm in Child-Pugh A patients before development of directly acting antivirals.