PIVKA-II as a surrogate biomarker for therapeutic response in Non-AFP-secreting hepatocellular carcinoma.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a key biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but 30-40% of cases are AFP-negative. Prothrombin induced by vitamin K absence II (PIVKA-II) is more sensitive for HCC detection, though its role in systemic therapy remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate PIVKA-II in non-AFP-secreting HCC treated with systemic therapy.

Methods

Patients with unresectable HCC undergoing systemic therapy were enrolled. Baseline imaging and PIVKA-II levels were recorded. After 8-12 weeks of treatment, response was evaluated through imaging and repeat PIVKA-II measurements.

Results

A total of 116 treatment assessments from 61 cases were analyzed. Baseline PIVKA-II levels correlated with tumor size, but not tumor number or liver function.

SUBMITTER: Chen SC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11792300 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature