The changing scenario of hepatocellular carcinoma in Italy: an update

Background and aims: Epidemiology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is changing in most areas of the world. This study aimed at updating the changing scenario of aetiology, clinical presentation, management and prognosis of HCC in Italy during the last 15 years. Methods: Retrospective analysis of the Italian Liver Cancer (ITA.LI.CA) database included 6034 HCC patients managed in 23 centres from 2004 to 2018. Patients were divided into three groups according to the date of cancer diagnosis (2004-2008, 2009-2013 and 2014-2018). Results: The main results were: (i) a progressive patient ageing; (ii) a progressive increase of non-viral cases and, particularly, of ‘metabolic’ and ‘metabolic + alc…