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Cancers
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Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers
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Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Cancer Causes, Screening and Diagnosis".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2026 | Viewed by 5145

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Zaed Z.R. Hamady

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Human Development & Health, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
2. University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
Interests: pancreatic cancer; new onset diabetes millitus; early detection; faster diagnosis; screening; prevention

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Much of the morbidity and mortality caused by human cancer is related to late diagnosis, where surgical and pharmacologic therapies are less effective. Most late-stage pancreatic and liver cancers follow a palliative treatment pathway. Therefore, facilitating early diagnosis is an important strategy to achieve longer survival (WHO, guide to cancer early diagnosis, 2017).

In addition, there are measures which can prevent or reduce the chance of HPB cancer in at-risk populations. These measures have highlighted some pharmacological agents, vaccines and supplements that may be recommended for public use.

The growing understanding of genomic, epigenomic and machine learning pathways has led to a pronounced diversification of diagnostic options, and thus to a significant improvement in the early diagnosis of cancer.

In this Special Issue, innovative screening, early detection and prevention technologies will be highlighted from the perspective of basic, translational and clinical pathway research, with the overall goal of improving them and identifying new potential targets.

Dr. Zaed Z.R. Hamady
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cancers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • hepatobiliary cancer
  • pancreatic cancer
  • early detection
  • diagnosis
  • screening
  • prevention

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 1190 KiB  
Article
Metabolite Changes Associated with Resectable Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
by Declan McDonnell, Paul R. Afolabi, Umar Niazi, Sam Wilding, Gareth O. Griffiths, Jonathan R. Swann, Christopher D. Byrne and Zaed Z. Hamady
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071150 - 29 Mar 2025
Viewed by 294
Abstract
Introduction: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is insidious, with only 15–20% of those diagnosed suitable for surgical resection as it is either too advanced and has invaded local structures or has already spread to distant sites. The associated tumor microenvironment provides a protective shield [...] Read more.
Introduction: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is insidious, with only 15–20% of those diagnosed suitable for surgical resection as it is either too advanced and has invaded local structures or has already spread to distant sites. The associated tumor microenvironment provides a protective shield which limits the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents, but also impairs the delivery of nutrients required for the PDAC cells. To compensate for this, metabolic adaptions occur to provide alternative sources of fuel. The aim of this study is to explore metabolomic differences between participants with resectable PDAC compared to healthy volunteers (HV). The objectives were to use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) to determine if resectable PDAC induces sufficient metabolic adaptations and variations which could be used to discriminate between the two groups. Methods: Plasma samples were collected from fasted individuals with resectable PDAC (n = 23, median age 68 [IQR 56–75], 69.6% male) and HV (n = 24, median age 63 [IQR 58–71], 54.2% male). Samples were analyzed using NMR and the Biocrates MxP Quant 500 kit at University Hospital Southampton. Results: NMR spectroscopy identified six independent metabolites that significantly discriminated between the PDAC and HV groups, including elevated plasma concentrations of 3-hydroxybutyrate and citrate, with decreased amounts of glutamine and histidine. MS analysis identified 84 metabolites with a significant difference between the PDAC and HV cohorts. The metabolites with a fold change (FC) > 1.5 in the PDAC population were conjugated bile acids (taurocholic acid, glycocholic acid, and glycochenodexoycholic acid). Discussion: In conclusion, using metabolomics, biochemical differences between resectable PDAC and HV were detected. These differences indicate metabolic plasticity and utilization of alternative fuel sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers)
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11 pages, 806 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Usefulness of the Blood Apolipoprotein A2 Isoform Index for Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
by Kento Shionoya, Atsushi Sofuni, Shuntaro Mukai, Takayoshi Tsuchiya, Reina Tanaka, Ryosuke Tonozuka, Kenjiro Yamamoto, Kazumasa Nagai, Yukitoshi Matsunami, Hiroyuki Kojima, Hirohito Minami, Noriyuki Hirakawa, Kyoko Asano, Yuma Yamaguchi, Kazuki Hama and Takao Itoi
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071071 - 22 Mar 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Background: Early detection of pancreatic cancer using existing tumor markers is challenging, and novel biomarkers are needed. Apolipoprotein A2 (APOA2), which is not directly produced by tumors, may help detect pancreatic cancer through mechanisms distinct from carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9). This [...] Read more.
Background: Early detection of pancreatic cancer using existing tumor markers is challenging, and novel biomarkers are needed. Apolipoprotein A2 (APOA2), which is not directly produced by tumors, may help detect pancreatic cancer through mechanisms distinct from carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9). This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the APOA2-isoform (APOA2-i) Index in patients with pancreatic cancer. Methods: Serum levels of the APOA2-i Index and CA 19-9 were measured in 76 patients with pancreatic cancer (Stage 0, n = 5; I, n = 4; II, n = 15; III, n = 19; and IV, n = 33) and 98 patients with non-pancreatic cancer (intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, n = 36; chronic pancreatitis, n = 33; pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm, n = 8; autoimmune pancreatitis, n = 9; and others, n = 12) to evaluate diagnostic performance. Results: APOA2 showed lower accuracy for advanced (stages II–IV) pancreatic cancer compared to CA 19-9 (sensitivity, 50.7% vs. 83.6%; sensitivity, 77.6% vs. 87.9%), but it provided superior accuracy for early-stage (stages 0 and I) detection (sensitivity, 33.3% vs. 22.2%; specificity, 66.7% vs. 59.4%). Three early-stage pancreatic cancer cases negative for CA 19-9 were detected with the APOA2-i Index, demonstrating high diagnostic accuracy for early-stage pancreatic cancer when both biomarkers are combined (sensitivity, 44.4%; specificity, 46.7%). The multivariate analysis revealed pancreatic cancer to be an independent risk factor for APOA2-i Index positivity (odds ratio [OR]: 3.48, p < 0.001), CA 19-9 positivity (OR: 25.5, p < 0.001), and positivity for either marker (OR: 13.3, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The APOA2-i Index, combined with CA 19-9, may improve early-stage pancreatic cancer detection, especially in challenging cases and for high-risk patient surveillance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers)
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12 pages, 4230 KiB  
Article
Efficacy of Antivascular Ultrasound (AVUS) in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
by Moein Moradpour, Zhuorui Li, Omar Al-Daoud, Fereshteh Yazdanpanah, Aashish Cheruvu, Chandra Sehgal and Stephen Hunt
Cancers 2024, 16(22), 3756; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16223756 - 7 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1122
Abstract
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent type of primary liver cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Antivascular Ultrasound (AVUS) is a novel therapy approach that utilizes the mechanical and thermal interactions between ultrasound and microbubbles to disrupt [...] Read more.
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent type of primary liver cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Antivascular Ultrasound (AVUS) is a novel therapy approach that utilizes the mechanical and thermal interactions between ultrasound and microbubbles to disrupt tumor vasculature or potentiate effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy in a dose-dependent fashion. In this review, we aim to illustrate the mechanisms of AVUS, focusing on the preclinical and clinical evidence of AVUS applications in HCC. Methods: Peer-reviewed publications pertaining to the use of AVUS in HCC were collected and analyzed. Results: 12 preclinical studies and 1 clinical trial were analyzed. At lower energy levels, AVUS can enhance tumor perfusion, facilitating the delivery of chemotherapy agents and resulting in improved therapeutic outcomes. Conversely, at higher energy levels, AVUS can disrupt tumor perfusion, leading to ischemic damage of the tumors. Combining AVUS with other therapeutic approaches, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and transarterial radioembolization (TARE), can synergistically enhance therapeutic outcomes. Conclusions: AVUS is a promising novel treatment modality for HCC. Current evidence suggests that AVUS exhibits a dose-dependent nature, making it a versatile approach that can be effectively combined with other therapeutic regimens. Further clinical studies and long-term follow-ups are needed to establish the optimal clinical protocol and safety profile of AVUS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers)
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Review

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21 pages, 346 KiB  
Review
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Strategies: Major Guidelines and Screening Advances
by Gavin Wu, Nojan Bajestani, Nooruddin Pracha, Cindy Chen and Mina S. Makary
Cancers 2024, 16(23), 3933; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16233933 - 24 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1719
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with prognosis and treatment outcomes that are significantly influenced by the stage at diagnosis. Early detection through regular surveillance is crucial for improving patient outcomes, especially in high-risk groups such as [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with prognosis and treatment outcomes that are significantly influenced by the stage at diagnosis. Early detection through regular surveillance is crucial for improving patient outcomes, especially in high-risk groups such as those with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B. Geographic variations in HCC risk factors, including viral hepatitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), have led to the development of different international surveillance guidelines. This review aims to compare and evaluate the surveillance strategies proposed by the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL), the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), and the European Association for the Study of the Liver and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EASL–EORTC). Methods: The review examined and compared major international guidelines on HCC surveillance, focusing on patient selection, imaging modalities, and the integration of biomarkers. We also explored recent advancements in screening techniques, including artificial intelligence and emerging biomarkers, to identify future directions for improving surveillance strategies. Results: Our analysis identified key differences in the guidelines, particularly in imaging modality preferences and the use of biomarkers for early detection. While all guidelines place emphasis on high-risk populations, the inclusion criteria and surveillance intervals vary. Additionally, novel technologies such as artificial intelligence show potential to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of HCC detection. Conclusions: This review highlights the need to harmonize the international guidelines, particularly in regard to patients with non-cirrhotic NAFLD who remain under-represented in current surveillance protocols. Future research should focus on integrating emerging technologies and biomarkers to improve early detection and overall patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers)

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

25 pages, 4063 KiB  
Systematic Review
Utility of Polygenic Risk Scores (PRSs) in Predicting Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Common-Variant and Mixed Scores with Insights into Rare Variant Analysis
by Georgios Ioannis Verras, Zaed Z. Hamady, Andrew Collins and William Tapper
Cancers 2025, 17(2), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17020241 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1149
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the most common histological subtype of pancreatic cancer, representing approximately 85% of all cases [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Screening, Early Detection and Prevention of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Cancers)
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