Dynamic changes in serum alpha-fetoprotein predict prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The impact of dynamic changes in alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels on the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial.

Objectives

This review aims to clarify the prognostic value of dynamic changes in AFP levels in patients with HCC treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

Data sources and methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched to collect eligible studies published up to July 29, 2024. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale score was used to assess the quality of included studies, and Stata 15.1 statistical software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

This review included 23 studies involving 2860 patients with HCC. Following treatment with ICIs, a dynamic decrease in AFP levels was significa

SUBMITTER: Zeng Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12559667 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature