Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Therapeutic Strategy in 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary neoplasm of the liver and it is the most relevant cause of death among patients with chronic liver disease. Prognosis assessment is a critical step in the management of HCC patients. Any attempt to assess the prognosis should consider not only information regarding tumor stage but also data about the degree of liver function impairment and the presence of cancer-related symptoms. In addition, any system aimed to be clinically successful should optimally attempt to link prognostic prediction and treatment indication. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system is the most accepted staging system. It has been externally validated, takes into account the most relevant prognostic parameters, and suggests the treatment approach based on the best scientific evidence. This article summarizes the most updated treatment strategy of HCC and future perspectives.