Challenges in liver cancer and possible treatment approaches

Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer. 2020 Jan;1873(1):188314. doi: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2019.188314. Epub 2019 Nov 1.

Abstract

Globally, liver cancer is the most frequent fatal malignancy; in the United States, it ranks fifth. Patients are often diagnosed with liver cancer in advanced stages, contributing to its poor prognosis. Of all liver cancer cases, >90% are hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) for which chemotherapy and immunotherapy are the best options for therapy. For liver cancer patients, new treatment options are necessary. Use of natural compounds and/or nanotechnology may provide patients with better outcomes with lower systemic toxicity and fewer side effects. Improved treatments can lead to better prognoses. Finally, in this review, we present some of the problems and current treatment options contributing to the poor outcomes for patients with liver cancer.

Keywords: Chemotherapeutics; Immunotherapy; Liver cancer; Natural compound.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / therapy*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Liver Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care / methods
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care / statistics & numerical data
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Biomarkers, Tumor