Pharmacogenomics and outcomes for hepatocellular cancer treatment

Pharmacogenomics by name implies pharmacotherapeutics in relation to human genome. Currently pharmacogenomics is expanding its scope from single-gene screening to multiple genes, to enhance efficacy, safety and reduce the economic burden on healthcare system. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a growing worldwide problem which is caused by several risk factors such as viral infections, food habits, and alcohol. The risk factors predominantly result in genetic mutations leading to HCC. These genetic abnormalities differ geographically which may decide the effectiveness of systemic treatments in HCC. In light of this, the current chapter discusses the geographical prevalence of genetic variants linked to HCC or HCC recurrence, as well as potential targets for systemic therapy efficacy.