Serum Α-fetoprotein Level Research Articles

Lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase is a potential tumor suppressor and predictive marker for hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis

BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and metastasis is the main cause of early recurrence and poor prognosis. However, the mechanism of metastasis remains poorly understood. AIM To determine the possible mechanism affecting HCC metastasis and provide a possible theoretical basis for HCC treatment. METHODS The candidate molecule lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) was screened by gene microarray and bioinformatics analysis. The expression levels of LCAT in clinical cohort samples was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The proliferation, migration, invasion and tumor-forming ability were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell cell migration, invasion, and clonal formation assays, respectively. Tumor formation was detected in nude mice after LCAT gene knockdown or overexpression. The immunohistochemistry for Ki67, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and vascular endothelial growth factor were performed in liver tissues to assess the effect of LCAT on HCC. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on various gene signatures were analyzed with GSEA version 3.0. Three machine-learning algorithms (random forest, support vector machine, and logistic regression) were applied to predict HCC metastasis in The Cancer Genome Atlas and GEO databases. RESULTS LCAT was identified as a novel gene relating to HCC metastasis by using gene microarray in HCC tissues. LCAT was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues, which is correlated with recurrence, metastasis and poor outcome of HCC patients. Functional analysis indicated that LCAT inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion both in vitro and in vivo . Clinicopathological data showed that LCAT was negatively associated with HCC size and metastasis (HCC size ≤ 3 cm vs 3-9 cm, P < 0.001; 3-9 cm vs > 9 cm, P < 0.01; metastatic-free HCC vs extrahepatic metastatic HCC, P < 0.05). LCAT suppressed the growth, migration and invasion of HCC cell lines via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. Our results indicated that the logistic regression model based on LCAT, TNM stage and the serum level of α-fetoprotein in HCC patients could effectively predict high metastatic risk HCC patients. CONCLUSION LCAT is downregulated at translational and protein levels in HCC and might inhibit tumor metastasis via attenuating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. LCAT is a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for HCC.

Distribution of serum α-feto protein levels among different clinical indications: A descriptive analysis of requests received at a reference laboratory in Sri Lanka

Distribution of serum α-feto protein levels among different clinical indications: A descriptive analysis of requests received at a reference laboratory in Sri Lanka

Proposal for Prognosis-Oriented Definition of Borderline Resectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Owing to advances in the multidisciplinary treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a conceptualization and definition for borderline resectable (BR) HCC, which carries a high risk of recurrence, is warranted. In this study, we aimed to define BR-HCC using a prognosis-oriented approach. The study included an original cohort of 221 patients and an independent validation cohort of 181 patients who had undergone primary hepatic resection for HCC. To define biological BR-HCC, we evaluated the risk factors for early recurrence beyond the Milan criteria within 1 year after hepatic resection using multivariable logistic regression models. Subsequently, we developed high-risk scores using the identified risk factors and defined BR-HCC. The utility of high-risk score was validated in the validation cohort. In the original cohort (hepatitis B virus:hepatitis C virus = 20%:29%), recurrence beyond the Milan criteria within 1 year was observed in 28 patients (13%), with a 5-year survival rate of 25%. Multivariable analysis identified risk factors for recurrence beyond the Milan criteria within 1 year, including serum alpha-fetoprotein levels of 12 ng/mL or more (p = 0.02), tumor diameters less than 5 cm (p = 0.02), tumor number 3 or more (p = 0.001), and macrovascular invasion (p = 0.04). BR-HCC was defined as a tumor with 2 or more identified risk factors, and 42 patients (19%) were diagnosed with BR-HCC, with a 5-year survival rate of 51%. In the validation cohort, 45 (25%) patients had BR-HCC, with a 5-year survival rate of 42%. The prognosis-oriented definition of BR-HCC enabled us to identify patients who are susceptible to early unresectable recurrence and have poor survival after hepatic resection for HCC. For patients with BR-HCC, preoperative systemic therapy may be a viable option to improve postresection outcomes.

Diagnostic accuracy of serum protein induced by vitamin K absence (PIVKA-II), serum a-fetoprotein and their combination for hepatocellular carcinoma among Caucasian cirrhotic patients with diagnostic or non-diagnostic serum a-fetoprotein levels.

The aim of our study was to evaluate the accuracy of serum biomarkers (AFP/PIVKA-II) and their combination in HCC diagnosis among Caucasian cirrhotic patients. Serum AFP/PIVKA-II levels were evaluated in 218 cirrhotics (163 males, 118 CTP-A, 66 ALBI-I, 111 with varices, 63 with diabetes) with (n = 90) or without (n = 128) HCC. Patients with HCC were categorized to BCLC Stage 0/A (n = 12), B (n = 21), C (n = 48), and D (n = 9). The two groups were comparable for all baseline parameters except for age, platelets, and diabetes presence. Median levels of AFP (239.1 vs. 4.0 ng/mL) and PIVKA-II (4082.7 vs. 45.8 mAU/mL) were both significantly higher in HCC group compared to controls (p < 0.001). AUROC and cutoff value for HCC diagnosis were 88%/12.35 ng/mL (AFP) and 84.4%/677.13 mAU/mL (PIVKA-II), whereas their combination showed better diagnostic accuracy (AUROC = 90.2%). The diagnostic accuracy of each biomarker separately was moderate or good in BCLC-0/A/B and was excellent only for BCLC-C patients (AFP: AUROC = 94.3%, cutoff = 12.35 ng/mL and PIVKA-II: 91.3%, 253.51 mAU/mL) whereas their combination presented quite acceptable results in BCLC-B (AUROC = 92.4%) and BCLC-C (AUROC = 95.7%). Excluding HCC patients with high AFP (above 400 ng/mL), the diagnostic accuracy of each biomarker separately and their combination was moderate/good in all groups, except for their combination in BCLC-C (AUROC = 90.5%). Each biomarker separately showed acceptable accuracy for detecting HCC in cirrhotic patients and excellent for those in BCLC-C stage. The combination of the biomarkers presented excellent results in BCLC-B/C patients. The diagnostic accuracy of PIVKA-II and the combination of the two biomarkers in patients expressing low/non-diagnostic AFP levels was good in BCLC-B and excellent in BCLC-C patients.

Similar Efficacy Between Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Versus Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy For Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma With Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

The landscape of treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), including immune checkpoint inhibitors, has expanded significantly. However, unresectable HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) continue to face a poor prognosis. This investigation examined the survival outcomes and determinants influencing survival rates in advanced HCC patients with PVTT undergoing treatment with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (ATZ+BEV) or hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). Between December 2003 and June 2023, 48 advanced HCC with PVTT underwent treatment with either ATZ+BEV (16 patients) or HAIC (32 patients). The analysis revealed no significant disparities in overall survival (OS) or treatment efficacy between the ATZ+BEV and HAIC groups (ATZ+BEV: 10.0 months, HAIC: 15.3 months). Treatment with either ATZ+BEV or HAIC resulted in minimal alterations in the ALBI score and preserved hepatic function. Independent prognostic factors for OS, identified via multivariate logistic regression, included serum α-fetoprotein levels >400 ng/ml [hazard ratio (HR)=1.94; p=0.001], the existence of more than five tumors (HR=1.55; p=0.043), and the Child-Pugh score (HR=2.53; p=0.002). This investigation revealed no significant variance in OS and response rates between patients receiving ATZ+BEV and those treated with HAIC. The survival of advanced HCC patients with PVTT is intricately linked to the preservation of liver function, emphasizing the necessity for additional research to enhance treatment approaches for this patient population.

Nomogram for Estimation of Acute Liver Failure Risk in Spontaneous Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a severe complication of spontaneous ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (SRHCC) that requires accurate prediction for effective treatment strategies. We aimed to develop a predictive nomogram to estimate the risk of ALF in patients with SRHCC undergoing treatment. We performed a retrospective analysis of historical data from 284 patients diagnosed with SRHCC at the First Hospital of Jilin University over the past decade. Variables were selected through univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and a predictive nomogram was constructed. We evaluated its predictive accuracy against the Child-Pugh Score, R.MELD, and ALBI by assessing discrimination, calibration, and net clinical benefit. Among the 284 patients, 65 developed ALF. The risk factors identified for model development included largest tumor size (LTS), platelet counts, prolonged prothrombin time, and elevated serum α-fetoprotein levels. The nomogram exhibited high accuracy in predicting ALF risk with a C-index of 0.91 (0.87-0.95). The Delong test showed a significant difference between the nomogram and the other three models (p<0.05). The calibration curve for the nomogram fit well, and the decision curve analysis revealed superior net benefit. The optimal cut-off point for the nomogram was determined to be 40, yielding sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 83.10%, 87.20%, 65.90% and 94.60%, respectively. The nomogram we developed provides an optimized tool for predicting ALF in SRHCC patients. Its application can help determine individual patient's risk of ALF, enabling more rational and personalized treatment strategies.

Added value of CE-CT radiomics to predict high Ki-67 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma

BackgroundThis study aimed to develop a computed tomography (CT) model to predict Ki-67 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to examine the added value of radiomics to clinico-radiological features.MethodsA total of 208 patients (training set, n = 120; internal test set, n = 51; external validation set, n = 37) with pathologically confirmed HCC who underwent contrast-enhanced CT (CE-CT) within 1 month before surgery were retrospectively included from January 2014 to September 2021. Radiomics features were extracted and selected from three phases of CE-CT images, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression (LASSO) was used to select features, and the rad-score was calculated. CE-CT imaging and clinical features were selected using univariate and multivariate analyses, respectively. Three prediction models, including clinic-radiologic (CR) model, rad-score (R) model, and clinic-radiologic-radiomic (CRR) model, were developed and validated using logistic regression analysis. The performance of different models for predicting Ki-67 expression was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA).ResultsHCCs with high Ki-67 expression were more likely to have high serum α-fetoprotein levels (P = 0.041, odds ratio [OR] 2.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–6.21), non-rim arterial phase hyperenhancement (P = 0.001, OR 15.13, 95% CI 2.87–79.76), portal vein tumor thrombus (P = 0.035, OR 3.19, 95% CI: 1.08–9.37), and two-trait predictor of venous invasion (P = 0.026, OR 14.04, 95% CI: 1.39–144.32). The CR model achieved relatively good and stable performance compared with the R model (AUC, 0.805 [95% CI: 0.683–0.926] vs. 0.678 [95% CI: 0.536–0.839], P = 0.211; and 0.805 [95% CI: 0.657–0.953] vs. 0.667 [95% CI: 0.495–0.839], P = 0.135) in the internal and external validation sets. After combining the CR model with the R model, the AUC of the CRR model increased to 0.903 (95% CI: 0.849–0.956) in the training set, which was significantly higher than that of the CR model (P = 0.0148). However, no significant differences were found between the CRR and CR models in the internal and external validation sets (P = 0.264 and P = 0.084, respectively).ConclusionsPreoperative models based on clinical and CE-CT imaging features can be used to predict HCC with high Ki-67 expression accurately. However, radiomics cannot provide added value.

Treatment Outcomes for Hepatoblastoma: 15-Years-Experience of a Single Institution – Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Background: Hepatoblastoma is the most common malignant liver tumor in children. Treatment protocols varies. In our center, we have adopted the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) AHEP0731 protocol, in addition to some experimental regimens for relapsed solid tumors. Methods: We aimed to investigate the outcome of the current hepatoblastoma treatment protocol at our center. 15 patients were included between January 2008 and June 2023. A retrospective review was carried to review the clinical presentation, serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) level at diagnosis, histological subtype, treatment, and outcomes. Results: 12 patients (80%) were symptomatic at time of diagnosis, with abdominal mass being the most common presenting complaint. Nine patients (60%) presented in stage 3 PRETEXT staging system. Epithelial histopathological subtype was predominant subtype. Thirteen patients have received preoperative chemotherapy, followed by surgical resection; only one patient underwent upfront surgical resection followed by chemotherapy. Preoperative chemotherapy consists of 2 to 4 cycles of Cisplatin, Fluorouracil, Vincristine and Doxorubicin (C5VD), followed by surgical resection. Four of them underwent neoadjuvent experimental chemotherapy utilizing agents such as Pazopanib, Pembrolizumab and Sorafenib. During followup, six patients died of progressive disease. The median survival time was 42 months (95% confidence interval: 18–42%). Five-year overall survival was 44.09% (95% confidence interval: 18–42%). Conclusions: The combination of surgery and chemotherapy for hepatoblastoma is an effective approach. Utilization of new-targeted therapies and relapsed solid tumors regimens may prolong life in patients who did not respond to standard therapy. Further studies are required to validate its usage on patients with advanced hepatoblastoma.

A novel approach for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

35 Background: No established treatments for patients with advanced HCC and moderate hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh B; CPB) are available. Namodenoson is an A3 adenosine-receptor agonist currently under clinical development as a treatment for advanced HCC with CPB. Methods: Wereport the results of a prospective placebo-controlled randomized (2:1) phase 2 trial investigating namodenoson (25 mg BID) as a second-line therapy in HCC with CPB and focus on a case of a long-term complete response (CR). Results: The study included 78 patients (50 namodenoson-treated, 28 placebo-treated). Namodenoson was well-tolerated and no treatment-related deaths were reported. Median overall survival (OS, the primary endpoint) was not statistically significantly different between the namodenoson and placebo arms (4.1 and 4.3 months, respectively, hazard ratio [HR], 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49‒1.38; p=.46). The difference in 12-month OS was statistically significant (44% vs 18%, respectively, p=.028). Pre-planned analysis of patients with CPB7 (34 namodenoson-treated, 22 placebo-treated) showed nonsignificant improvements in OS and progression-free survival (PFS). OS: 6.9 vs 4.3 months; HR, 0.81; 95% CI: 0.45‒1.43; p=.46. PFS: 3.5 vs 1.9 months; HR, 0.89; 95% CI: 0.51‒1.55; p=.67. Of the patients with ≥1 assessment post-baseline, partial response (PR) was reported in 3 of 34 (8.8%) namodenoson-treated patients and none of the 21 placebo-treated patients. One of 3 the patients who achieved a PR (a 61-year old woman with CPB7, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 2) continued treatment with namodenoson under an open-label extension program (treatment is ongoing for &gt;6 years). The patient achieved a CR (determined via CT scans) 4 years after treatment initiation. Furthermore, the patient's baseline ALT and AST levels which were elevated at baseline (68 U/L and 44 U/L, respectively) normalized after 4 weeks, and her serum α-fetoprotein level, which was 47 ng/ml at baseline, declined to normal levels after 20 weeks of treatment and reached 1.3 ng/mL at time of CR. The patient experienced no treatment-related adverse events. At present (6 years from treatment initiation), the response is ongoing as shown by liver function evaluation and imaging studies. Conclusions: Treatment with namodenoson can result in a complete and long-term response. The findings support the clinical development of namodenoson as a treatment for HCC with CPB7. Clinical trial information: NCT02128958 .

FIB‑4 index and serum α‑fetoprotein are useful predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma occurrence in hepatitis B patients with nucleos(t)ide analogs therapy.

Current antiviral therapies cannot achieve eradication of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can reduce but not eliminate the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic HBV infection. The present study aimed to identify the risk factors for HCC development by analyzing nucleoside analogue (NA)-treated patients as a retrospective cohort using fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4 index) as a non-invasive fibrosis marker. A total of 260 patients with HBV receiving NAs without a history of HCC between January 2001 and January 2021 were included in the present study. The incidence of HCC in patients with HBV during NA therapy and the factors contributing to HCC occurrence were identified using clinical characteristics and blood test results. Among the 260 patients, 40 patients (15.4%) developed HCC. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that age [hazard ratio (HR), 1.03; P=0.045], male sex (HR, 3.14; P<0.01) and FIB-4 index at 6 months after NA treatment <1.95 (HR, 4.35; P<0.01) correlated with the incidence of HCC. The cumulative incidence of HCC in patients with FIB-4 index at 6 months after NA treatment >1.95 was significantly higher compared with that in patients with FIB-4 index ≤1.95 (P<0.01). Multivariate analysis in patients in which serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) level at 6 months after NA treatment was measured showed that FIB-4 index >1.95 (HR, 8.27; P=0.014) and serum AFP level >4 ng/ml (HR, 4.26; P=0.033) contributed to HCC occurrence. FIB-4 index at 6 months after NA treatment and serum AFP levels at 6 months after NA treatment were predictors for the development of HCC in patients with HBV during NA treatment. Further study of hepatocarcinogenesis during NA with a longer follow-up period and larger numbers of participants is required.

An observational study of donafenib as adjuvant therapy to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after curative surgery.

e16227 Background: The five-year recurrence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatic resection is as high as 70% and remains a major clinical challenge. Many investigators have suggested adjuvant therapy to prevent HCC recurrence, and several promising outcomes have been reported. Donafenib has been approved as a standard treatment for patients with unresectable HCC in China. Here, we describe our preliminary results regarding the efficacy and safety of donafenib as an adjuvant therapy for patients with HCC after hepatectomy. Methods: This was an observational study of patients with HCC following hepatectomy treated with donafenib in routine practice at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University. The enrolled patients were 75 years or younger, had been diagnosed with HCC, showed no evidence of recurrence at radiological follow-up within one month after hepatectomy, and had at least one high recurrence risk factor, such as tumor diameter ≥5 cm, tumor number ≥2, microvascular invasion, or serum a-fetoprotein level before surgery ≥400 ng/mL. All of the patients had adequate hematologic, hepatic, and renal functions. The primary endpoint was recurrence-free survival (RFS), and the secondary endpoints included 6- and 12-month RFS rates, overall survival, and adverse events. Results: Seventeen patients were enrolled in this study. The median age was 56 years (range, 40–72), 88.2% were males, 82.4% with HBV, 17.6% had preoperative serum a-fetoprotein levels ≥400 ng/mL, 35.3% had tumor diameters ≥5 cm, 29.4% had tumor numbers ≥2, and 29.4% had microvascular invasion. The median follow-up time for the entire patient cohort was 16 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.9–20.1), and 5 of 17 patients relapsed, with a recurrence rate of 29.4%. The median RFS was not reached; the 6- and 12-month RFS rates were 88.2% and 70.1%, respectively. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 82.4% of the patients, most of which were grades 1–2. Grade 3 TRAEs, including hand-foot skin reaction and rash, were observed in three (16.4%) patients. No grade 4 or 5 TRAEs occurred. Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that donafenib as adjuvant therapy may be a potentially effective way to prevent HCC recurrence after curative surgery. Our findings should be validated in a larger, prospectively evaluated sample. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR2200064030 .

Increased expression of autophagy-related gene 5 indicates poor prognosis in patients with Hepatocellular carcinoma.

As an critical component of the autophagic machinery, autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) is essential for autophagosome formation. Autophagy participates in various malignant tumor transformation and progression, but the role of ATG5 involved in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains to be illustrated. The expression of ATG5 was evaluated in 89 pairs of liver tumor and adjacent normal tissues. The correlation between ATG5 expression and clinicopathological characteristics or prognosis were evaluated. Moreover, clinical special analysis was conducted in the young patients group and the old patients group respectively, and nomograms estimating overall survival and disease-free survival were investigated. Our study demonstrated that the ATG5 level was increased in tumor specimens than adjacent normal tissues. Upregulated ATG5 level had positive association with serum α-fetoprotein (AFP). Moreover, cases with higher ATG5 level had poorer disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) than those with lower ATG5 level. Multivariate analysis showed that overexpression of ATG5 predicts poor OS and DFS. Further analysis indicated that cases with higher ATG5 level had poorer OS and DFS in the young patients and solitary tumor number subgroup. The nomogram models suggested that it had a coherence between nomogram prediction and actual situation. Together these findings revealed that ATG5 promotes progression of HCC, making it a potentially biomarker in diagnosis and therapeutic target of hepatocellular carcinoma. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Four Albumin-Based Liver Reserve Models (ALBI/EZ-ALBI/PALBI/PAL) against MELD for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma Undergoing Transarterial Chemoembolization.

(1) Background: The severity of liver functional reserve plays an important role in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Noninvasive models such as the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade and easy (EZ)-ALBI grade, platelet-albumin-bilirubin (PALBI) and platelet-albumin (PAL) are used to evaluate liver dysfunction. We aimed to compare the prognostic performance of these four albumin-based models against MELD in HCC patients undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). (2) Methods: A total of 1038 treatment naïve HCC patients who received TACE as the primary treatment were enrolled. A multivariate Cox model was used to determine independent survival predictors. (3) Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that higher serum creatinine and α-fetoprotein level, vascular invasion, large tumor size, ALBI grades 2-3, EZ-ALBI grades 2-3, PALBI grades 2-3, PAL grades 2-3, but not the MELD score, were independent predictors associated with decreased survival in different Cox models. Among these models, the PALBI grade had the highest homogeneity and lowest corrected Akaike information criteria value, followed by EZ-ALBI, PAL, ALBI and, lastly, MELD. (4) Conclusions: All four albumin-based liver reserve models are better prognostic tools than MELD score in HCC patients undergoing TACE. Of these, the PALBI score is the best model to evaluate the liver reserve and should be considered a surrogate marker in these patients.

Diffusion-Weighted Imaging as a Quantitative Imaging Biomarker for Predicting Proliferation Rate in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Developing a Radiomics Nomogram.

This study aimed to explore the predictive performance of diffusion-weighted imaging with apparent diffusion coefficient map in predicting the proliferation rate of hepatocellular carcinoma and to develop a radiomics-based nomogram. This was a single-center retrospective study. A total of 110 patients were enrolled. The sample included 38 patients with low Ki67 expression (Ki67 ≤10%) and 72 with high Ki67 expression (Ki67 >10%) as demonstrated by surgical pathology. Patients were randomly divided into either a training (n = 77) or validation (n = 33) cohort. Diffusion-weighted imaging with apparent diffusion coefficient maps was used to extract radiomic features and the signal intensity values of tumor (SI tumor ), normal liver (SI liver ), and background noise (SI background ) from all samples. Subsequently, the clinical model, radiomic model, and fusion model (with clinical data and radiomic signature) were developed and validated. The area under the curve (AUC) of the clinical model for predicting the Ki67 expression including serum α-fetoprotein level ( P = 0.010), age ( P = 0.015), and signal noise ratio ( P = 0.026) was 0.799 and 0.715 in training and validation cohorts, respectively. The AUC of the radiomic model constructed by 9 selected radiomic features was 0.833 and 0.772 in training and validation cohorts, respectively. The AUC of the fusion model containing serum α-fetoprotein level ( P = 0.011), age ( P = 0.019), and rad score ( P < 0.001) was 0.901 and 0.781 in training and validation cohorts, respectively. Diffusion-weighted imaging as a quantitative imaging biomarker can predict Ki67 expression level in hepatocellular carcinoma across various models.

Combined serum CXCL8, CXCL9and CXCL13 tests for the prediction of microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma.

Aim: This work is to explore the predictive and diagnostic value of chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 8 (CXCL8), CXCL9and CXCL13 combined detections for microvascular invasion (MVI) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Materials & methods: A total of82 HCC patients with MVI were recruited as the MVI group and 154 patients with nonMVI were recruited as the non MVI group. Results: In HCC patients with MVI, CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL13 levels were significantly elevated. Child-Pugh scores and serum α-fetoprotein level had positive correlation with CXCL8, CXCL9and CXCL13 levels. The serum levels of CXCL8, 9and 13 were effective in predicting MVI in HCC patients. Conclusion: CXCL8, CXCL9 and CXCL13 levels in HCC patients are valuable parameters in the prediction of MVI.

Yttrium-90 Radioembolization as the Major Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of Yttrium-90 radioembolization using in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. From 2017 to 2021, 32 patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, with mean tumor diameter about 7cm (21 males, 11 females; median age, 57.5 years of age), treated with Yttrium-90 radioembolization using resin microspheres were reviewed at pre-Yttrium-90 and post-Yttrium-90 follow-up. Tumor response was assessed according to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Outcomes including overall survival and progression-free survival were reported. Median follow-up was 18 months. At follow-up examinations at 3-, 6-, and 12-months follow-up, the overall survival rates were 94%, 87% and 59%, and the progression-free survival rates were 78%, 64% and 60%, respectively. Complete response, partial response, stable disease, and progressive disease were noted in 7 (21.9%), 14 (43.7%), 4 (12.5%), and 7 (21.9%) patients, respectively. The disease control rate was 78.1%, the objective response rate was 65.6%, and the successful downstage rate was 34.4% (11 of 32). Nine of thirty-two patients underwent resection or transplantation after Yttrium-90 radioembolization with 2-year overall survival being 100%. No serious adverse events occurred after Yttrium-90 treatment. Worse overall survival was related to the larger tumor, higher stage, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, and Child-Pugh score. And worse progression-free survival was related to the higher tumor burden, and pre-Yttrium-90 serum α-fetoprotein level >100. Yttrium-90 Radioembolization can control hepatocellular carcinoma well even in advanced diseases. Patients successfully downstaging/bridging to resection or transplantation have excellent overall survival.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors analysis for the recurrence of pelvic endodermal sinus tumors

This study investigated the clinicopathological characteristics and factors influencing the recurrence of pelvic endodermal sinus tumor (PEST). 54 cases were retrospectively analyzed from at the Zhejiang Cancer Hospital. Progression-free survival (PFS) and related factors on disease recurrence were evaluated. Six patients had extragonadal endodermal sinus tumor, and four had histological features of endodermal sinus tumor (EST) combined with embryonal carcinoma (EC). 39 patients underwent fertility-preserving surgery, 18 patients had a childbearing history, and eight patients had residual tumor after initial treatment as surgery or chemotherapy. 26 patients had a tumor diameter of more than 15 cm, and 30 patients had a serum αfetoprotein (AFP) level greater than 10,000 ng/mL before initial management. The median follow-up was 47.5 months (range, 14–212 months). During follow-up, 15 patients experience recurrence, with a recurrence rate of 27.8% and a 5-year PFS rate of 61.1%. In univariate analysis, the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) stage (stage III–IV vs. I–II; hazard ratio (HR) = 9.73, p &lt; 0.001), residual tumor (yes vs. no for the first surgery; HR = 4.86, p = 0.001), histological features (EST combined with EC vs. EST; HR = 4.08, p = 0.017), and use of platinum-based chemotherapy (courses ≥3 vs. courses &lt;3; HR = 0.19, p = 0.004) were independent factors influencing recurrence. In multivariate analysis, only stage was an independent risk factor for PFS (stage III–IV vs. I–II; HR = 6.92, p = 0.02). Stage is a prognostic factor for recurrence of PEST. The aim of the initial surgery is to maximally debulk all grossly visible tumor and the post-operative treatment should include a sufficient dose and full course of platinum-based chemotherapy, which may reduce the recurrence rate. Maybe some gene expression that could be associate with PEST.

Optimizing Imaging of Pediatric Liver Lesions: Guidelines from the Pediatric LI-RADS Working Group.

A differential diagnosis based on a patient's age, clinical presentation, and serum α-fetoprotein level will help guide the initial imaging workup in children with a liver lesion. Children vary significantly in size, the ability to stay still, and the ability to breath hold for imaging examinations. Choosing and tailoring imaging techniques and protocols for each indication and age group is important for optimal care with minimal invasiveness. The need for sedation or anesthesia can be obviated by using techniques like feed and bundle, distraction, contrast-enhanced US, and motion-insensitive sequences for MRI. US is often the first imaging modality used in children with a suspected abdominal mass. Once a hepatic lesion is confirmed, multiphasic contrast-enhanced MRI is recommended for most lesions as the next imaging modality allowing full characterization of the lesion and assessment of the liver parenchyma. Contrast-enhanced CT can also be performed for assessment of pediatric focal liver lesions, especially in patients who have a contraindication to MRI. Contrast-enhanced US has shown promise to decrease the need for MRI or CT in some lesions such as hemangioma and focal nodular hyperplasia. Children with a history of malignancy can develop multiple types of hepatic lesions at various stages, including infections during an immunocompromised state, manifesting as focal liver lesions. Based on available limited data in the literature and the collective experiences of the Liver Imaging and Reporting Data System Pediatric Working Group, the authors provide guidelines for the imaging workup of pediatric focal liver lesions with an indication- and age-based approach and discuss the selection and performance of various imaging techniques and modalities. ©RSNA, 2022 See the invited commentary by Chojniak and Boaventura in this issue.

Maternal Serum α-Fetoprotein Levels during Pregnancy and Testicular Cancer in Male Offspring: A Cohort Study within a Danish Pregnancy Screening Registry.

Testicular cancer is believed to originate from disruptions of normal androgen-estrogen balance in-utero. α-fetoprotein (AFP) may modify fetal response to estrogens via estrogen interaction. In a cohort study, we investigated the association between circulating maternal pregnancy AFP and testicular cancer risk in offspring. Of the 56,709 live-born males from a pregnancy screening registry in 1980-1995, our study included 50,519 singleton males with available second trimester blood samples from their mothers and complete covariate ascertainment. Testicular cancer diagnoses and covariate data were obtained from nationwide Danish health registries. Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses estimated the prospective risk of testicular cancer (all, seminoma, nonseminoma) by AFP multiples of the median. During follow-up, 163 (0.3%) of the included males developed testicular cancer, of which 89 (54.6%) were nonseminomas. Maternal serum AFP levels greater than/equal to the median were associated with a relative risk of testicular cancer close to unity (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.76; 1.41) compared to AFP below the median. Associations differed by type of testicular cancer (RRseminoma 0.81, 95% CI 0.51; 1.29, RRnonseminoma 1.31, 95% CI 0.85; 2.02). On balance, our findings do not support that serum AFP in pregnancy can be used as a predictor of testicular cancer in offspring.

Role of Tri-Phasic Computed Tomography in Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

OBJECTIVESTo assess the usefulness of Tri-phasic computed tomography in the evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients.METHODOLOGYThis cross-sectional study was carried out in the Radiology and Imaging Department of Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar from October 2020 to September 2021 (01 year). Tri-phasic CT was done in all patients. Patients with suspected hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed by clinical and ultrasonography and having high serum α-fetoprotein levels were enrolled in the study.RESULTSMalignant cases on tri-phasic CT were 120(82.8%) while benign cases were 25 (17.2%) Fig -I. In malignant tumor cases, 99(82.5%) patients had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 13(10.8%) had metastases and 8(6.7%) had dysplastic nodule respectively. In benign tumour cases, 15(60%) had regenerative nodules, 6(24%) had hepatic adenoma and 4 (16%) had haemangioma. Tri -phasic CT as a tool in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients showed a sensitivity of 96.8%, specificity of 79.7%, the accuracy of 95%, positive predictive values of 96.2% and negative predictive values of 88.1%.CONCLUSIONTri-Phasic CT can be an ideal diagnostic tool for detecting as well as characterizing hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients.