Advancing Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) with Fujifilm's µTASWako i30: The Power of AFP-L3 Biomarker

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a major type of liver cancer, remains a significant healthcare challenge globally, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of liver diseases such as cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis. Early detection of HCC is crucial for improving patient outcomes, as treatment at earlier stages of the disease has a much higher chance of success. Biomarkers play an essential role in HCC surveillance, early-stage detection, and monitoring post-treatment responses. Among these biomarkers, AFP-L3 has emerged as a vital tool for early and more accurate HCC detection.

Fujifilm’s µTASWako i30is a state-of-the-art diagnostic platform that provides comprehensive HCC biomarker analysis, including AFP, AFP-L3, and PIVKA-II (DCP). It is the only platform available that offers AFP-L3 testing, a unique biomarker specifically associated with HCC. The MicroTAS i30 is approved by regulatory authorities worldwide, including the FDA, Health Canada, CE, NMPA, and PMDA, ensuring its global acceptance for clinical use.

The Role of AFP-L3 in Early Detection

AFP-L3 is an isoform of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) that binds to Lens culinaris agglutinin (LCA), making it distinct from total AFP. Unlike AFP, which can be elevated in various liver diseases, AFP-L3 is highly specific to early and aggressive forms of HCC, making it a critical marker for detecting small, early-stage tumors that might otherwise go unnoticed. Studies have shown that while both PIVKA-II and AFP levels rise gradually, AFP-L3 levels tend to increase earlier and in smaller amounts, allowing for detection at a stage where intervention can be most effective.

GALAD Score and Its Diagnostic Power

In addition to individual biomarker measurements, the GALAD score, a diagnostic model that combines AFP, AFP-L3, and PIVKA-II levels, is gaining recognition for its ability to improve clinical sensitivity and specificity in detecting HCC. The GALAD score provides clinicians with a more comprehensive assessment of a patient's risk for HCC, enabling a more accurate diagnosis, especially in cases where early-stage tumors are present.

Monitoring Treatment and Predicting Recurrence

HCC biomarkers, including AFP-L3, are not only useful for early detection but also for monitoring treatment effectiveness and predicting recurrence after treatment. By tracking the

levels of AFP, AFP-L3, and PIVKA-II, physicians can evaluate how well a treatment is working and identify signs of recurrence early, allowing for timely intervention.

Fujifilm’s µTASWako i30: A Game-Changer in HCC Management

With the ability to provide AFP, AFP-L3, and PIVKA-II testing on a single platform, Fujifilm’s µTASWako i30offers a powerful solution for clinicians managing HCC patients. Its advanced technology ensures rapid, reliable results that are critical for guiding clinical decisions in both the detection and ongoing management of HCC.

As healthcare continues to advance, early detection remains the cornerstone of effective cancer treatment. Fujifilm’s µTASWako i30, with its focus on delivering high-specificity biomarkers like AFP-L3, is leading the way in enhancing the precision and efficiency of HCC diagnosis and treatment. This platform promises to make a significant impact in the fight against liver cancer, offering hope for earlier diagnosis, better treatment outcomes, and improved survival rates for patients worldwide.