Publication:

Hepatocellular carcinoma in the context of chronic hepatitis C infection: pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapeutic advances

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most formidable cancers worldwide, and chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) plays a crucial role in its development. Even though the advent of direct-acting antivirals has greatly improved the rate of viral eradication, the lingering effects of long-term HCV—characterized by ongoing inflammation, advancing fibrosis, and intricate genetic alterations—continue to drive the formation of cancer. Based on my own clinical observations as well as recent scientific findings, this chapter delves deeply into the process by which HCC arises in an HCV-affected liver. I describe the sequential molecular events set off by persistent infection, assess modern imaging and diagnostic techniques (including both tissue-based assessments and liquid biopsy approaches), and review a range of treatment strategies from surgical removal to cutting-edge systemic therapies. In addition, I discuss future possibilities, particularly the potential benefits of precision medicine and the integration of multi-omics data. This review is designed to serve as both a practical resource for healthcare professionals and a catalyst for further research.