GALAD Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosis
Validated HCC diagnostic model combining Gender, Age, AFP-L3 (lens culinaris agglutinin-reactive fraction of AFP), AFP, and DCP (des-gamma-carboxyprothrombin; PIVKA-II). Developed by Johnson et al. 2014. Superior to AFP alone for early HCC detection. Validated across multiple aetiologies (HBV, HCV, ALD, NAFLD). GALAD score above -1.68 = HCC likely.
Score interpretation
Below the conventional cut-off (about 90 % specificity).
→ Continue surveillance per guideline.
At or above the conventional cut-off.
→ Multiphase CT or MRI; hepatology / HCC MDT.
Interpretation bands for the GALAD Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Johnson PJ et al. Assessment of liver function in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a new evidence-based approach -- the ALBI grade. J Clin Oncol. 2015;33(6):550-558.
- Best J et al. Performance of the GALAD model in the surveillance of patients with established liver cirrhosis for the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. PLoS One. 2020;15(2):e0229251.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.
