Demographics, risk factors, clinical manifestations, staging and liver function tests of hepatocellular Carcinoma: A literature review

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, with an increasing prevalence worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the sixth most prevalent cancer and the third most frequent cause of cancer-related death. The incidence of HCC is higher in men than in women. HCC often occurs in individuals with chronic liver disease, especially those caused by hepatitis B and C virus infection, excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD). The pathogenesis of HCC involves multiple factors, including genetic mutations, epigenetic changes, and disruption of cellular pathways that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Clinical symptoms of HCC are often nonspecific and appear at an advanced stage, leading to delayed diagnosis. BCLC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer) staging is used to determine the stage of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development and assist in treatment planning. Liver function tests, including measurements of SGOT, SGPT, bilirubin, Albumin, PT and AFP, help in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Therefore, early detection and more innovative therapeutic approaches are essential to improve the survival of HCC patients.