Impact and the delivery of loco-regional treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most lethal tumour, with therapies broadly divided into curative and palliative intent. Unfortunately, the majority of HCCs were found to be unresectable at diagnosis. Advances in novel loco-regional therapies have given patients with unresectable HCC a vital chance for disease control and survival. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly shaped and impacted treatment protocols and delivery for HCC patients. This review article aims to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the delivery of loco-regional treatment modalities for HCC and compare treatment trends between the pre -pandemic and pandemic eras. Treatment of HCC involves complex collaboration between clinical professionals within their local and global healthcare institutions. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the treatment of HCC. The delivery of loco-regional treatment for HCC will need to adapt to each healthcare system's unique structure.