Hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance: minimum standards
Sharma, Rohini Aravinthan, Aloysious Qurashi, Maria Stenberg, Benjamin Marshall, Aileen Hollywood, Coral Macdonald, Douglas Foster, Graham Rowe, Ian Franklin, James
Sharma, Rohini
Aravinthan, Aloysious
Qurashi, Maria
Stenberg, Benjamin
Marshall, Aileen
Hollywood, Coral
Macdonald, Douglas
Foster, Graham
Rowe, Ian
Franklin, James
Glos Author
Date
2025-06-05
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Type
Journal Article
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rapidly growing cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK, with early detection being critical for improving survival rates. Despite clear guidelines recommending 6-monthly surveillance for at-risk populations, participation remains low, with an estimated 20% of eligible patients attending regular surveillance. This guidance outlines the minimum standards for delivering effective HCC surveillance, emphasising the need for integrated patient tracking, digital call-recall systems and a multifaceted approach to engagement. Combining ultrasound with serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) improves detection rates, though AFP alone is insufficient due to its variability. The recommendations aim to increase surveillance adherence, enhance early diagnosis and ultimately improve outcomes for patients at risk of HCC.
Citation
Sharma, R., Aravinthan, A. D., Qurashi, M., & others. (2025). Hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance: Minimum standards. Frontline Gastroenterology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1136/flgastro-2024-102907