Observational analysis finds PIVKA-II levels predict aggressive tumor biology in alpha-fetoprotein-normal hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting a need for better risk assessment.
Key Points
Aggressive tumor biology correlates strongly with PIVKA-II levels in alpha-fetoprotein-normal hepatocellular carcinoma.
A cut-off value of 1609.5 mAU/mL effectively balances sensitivity and specificity in these cases.
Assessment using serum protein markers revealed a subgroup with ultra-high risk at levels ≥ 4000 mAU/mL.
These findings may enable improved risk stratification for hepatocellular carcinoma, enhancing treatment decisions.