Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Children: Results of the First Prospective Study of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology Group

Abstract

Survival for pediatric HCC patients is significantly inferior to that for children with hepatoblastoma. Complete tumor excision remains the only realistic chance of cure, although it is often prevented by advanced disease. The presence of metastases is the most potent predictor of poor prognosis. A prospective worldwide cooperation in the field of pediatric HCC should be encouraged to look for novel therapeutic concepts.