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Reig et al. BCLC strategy for prognosis prediction and treatment recommendation: the 2022 update. J Hepatol. 2022;76:681-693. PMID 34801630

One-paragraph summary

The 2022 BCLC update integrates tumor burden, liver function, performance status, and treatment availability while increasing flexibility within and across stages. It subdivides intermediate-stage disease, incorporates treatment-stage migration, and explicitly recognizes individualized decision-making.

Key findings

  • BCLC remains both a prognostic and treatment-allocation system.
  • BCLC B is divided by transplant eligibility, TACE suitability, and diffuse disease.
  • Stage migration prevents infeasible default therapy from blocking an appropriate alternative.
  • Liver function and competing risk remain co-determinants of outcome.

Limitations

  • Several branches rely on immature or non-randomized evidence.
  • Regional practice, technology, and organ allocation differ.
  • A strategy document cannot replace patient-level comparative trials.

Why it matters

BCLC is the organizing grammar of contemporary HCC care and the key map linking this wiki's diagnostic and treatment pages.

Cited by wiki pages

  • overview
  • diagnosis and imaging
  • staging and treatment allocation
  • locoregional therapy
  • guidelines
  • red flags and safety concerns