Retrospective observational study to investigate the predictive factors about the efficacy of molecular targeting therapy for unresectable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. - Retrospective observational study to investigate the predictive factors about the efficacy of molecular targeting therapy for unresectable advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.

This study included 259 males and 57 females with a median age of 70 years, of which 191 (60.4%) were classified as Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C, and 271 (85.8%) had Child-Pugh class A liver function. The median overall survival time was 307 days and progression-free survival time was 109 days. According to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumours, four patients achieved a complete response, 51 achieved a partial response, 136 had stable disease and 125 had progressive disease. Multivariate analysis identified female gender (P = 0.003) and decreased serum AFP level after 1 month (P = 0.042) as independent predictors of a complete or partial response.