Failure to achieve sustained virological response (SVR) and the presence of advanced liver disease are linked to higher mortality in patients with hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), according to a study presented at the EASL Congress. Maria Fernanda Guerra Veloz, MD, PhD, from King’s College London, noted that achieving SVR after HCV treatment reduces liver complications and HCC development, improving overall survival. The study, involving 98 patients with HCV-related HCC treated between 2015 and 2020, found 82% achieved SVR, with higher rates in the historical cohort (94%) compared to the active cohort (79%).

The study indicated that failure to achieve SVR, advanced liver disease (Child Pugh B/C vs. Child Pugh A), and noncurative treatments significantly increased mortality. Patients with active HCC and multiple nodules had a higher risk of failing to achieve SVR. Veloz emphasized that HCV treatment in patients with HCC is feasible, with one-third needing more than one DAA therapy. Overall survival was notably higher in those achieving SVR, highlighting the importance of effective HCV treatment in this population.

Reference: Burba K. Treating hepatitis C ‘feasible’ in patients with HCC, improves overall survival. Healio. Published July 06, 2023. Accessed August 7, 2024. https://www.healio.com/news/gastroenterology/20230705/treating-hepatitis-c-feasible-in-patients-with-hcc-improves-overall-survival