Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have improved sustained virologic response (SVR) rates in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.However, the role of DAA therapy in HCVrelated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial.This review aims to evaluate recent evidence on the efficacy and safety of DAA therapy in HCV-related HCC.In this narrative review of observational studies, cohort data, and meta-analyses studies.Initial studies reported high early recurrence rates following DAA therapy in patients with HCC, raising concerns about the disruption of immune surveillance.However, more recent large-scale cohort and registry studies have demonstrated no increase in recurrence rates and suggest a potential survival benefit with DAA therapy.SVR rates vary depending on tumor status-active HCC is associated with a lower SVR, whereas complete response post-curative therapy is generally associated with a higher SVR.Meta-analyses show that DAAs reduce HCC recurrence and improve overall survival, particularly in patients achieving SVR.However, therapeutic outcomes remain suboptimal in patients with active or advanced-stage HCC (BCLC B/C).DAA therapy is effective and potentially beneficial in HCV-related HCC, especially when initiated after curative treatment.Achieving SVR is associated with reduced recurrence and improved survival.Further studies are needed to determine the optimal timing of therapy and define eligibility in patients with active or advanced HCC.A tailored approach based on tumor activity and liver function is essential to maximize benefit from DAA therapy.
Authors: Seul Ki Han, Soon Koo Baik, Moon Young Kim
Language: English
Topic: Hepatitis C virus research
Subfield: Hepatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4413766739