Systematic comparison and interpretation of international and Chinese guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma (2023-2025) and their implications for clinical practice

Abstract:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, with a poor prognosis and high mortality. In recent years, the approval of novel targeted agents and immunotherapies, together with the advancement of multidisciplinary management, has led to continuous updates of HCC clinical practice guidelines. Owing to differences in epidemiology, etiological factors, and clinical practice patterns, substantial variations exist among guidelines regarding HCC screening, diagnosis, staging, and treatment. This review systematically compares and interprets the recommendations of major guidelines released between 2023 and 2025, including those from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, the British Society of Gastroenterology, the European Association for the Study of the Liver, the European Society for Medical Oncology, and the Chinese Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Liver Cancer. By highlighting their similarities and differences, this article aims to provide practical insights for optimizing HCC management in China.