Hepatitis B core-related antigen as a predictive biomarker for recurrence in primary hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies, with high recurrence rates after treatment. Identifying reliable biomarkers for predicting recurrence is essential for improving patient outcomes. Hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) has shown potential as a predictive marker for HCC recurrence.

AIM

To evaluate the association between HBcrAg levels and the risk of HCC recurrence.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched without restrictions on date or language. Observational studies reporting hazard ratios (HRs) for HBcrAg as a predictor of HCC recurrence were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Statistical analyses used a random-effects model to account for heterogeneity ( ≥ 50%), and sensitivity analysis was performed to ensure the robustness of the results.

RESULTS

A total of 1339 articles were initially identified, and 17 studies were included in the final meta-analysis after screening. The pooled analysis showed a significant association between elevated HBcrAg levels and HCC recurrence (HR = 4.42, 95% confidence interval: 3.43-5.41) with substantial heterogeneity ( = 92.6%). Subgroup analysis revealed higher pooled HRs in studies with ≥ 500 participants (HR = 4.18) and HBcrAg cut-offs ≥ 4.0 LogU/mL (HR = 5.29). Studies with ≥ 10 years of follow-up showed a lower HR (2.89) compared to those with < 10 years (3.27). Patients treated with nucleos(t)ide analogs had a pooled HR of 1.98, while those without nucleos(t)ide analog had a higher HR of 3.87. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results, with no significant publication bias detected.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis provides strong evidence that elevated HBcrAg levels are associated with an increased risk of HCC recurrence. HBcrAg may serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting recurrence, aiding personalized management and surveillance strategies for HCC patients.