Univariate analyses using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests revealed that Edmondson grade 3–4 at LR (P = 0.011), the presence of MVI at LR (P = 0.003), a time interval to post-LR HCC recurrence of ≤ 12months (P < 0.001), TNM stage 3–4 at LT (P = 0.018), AFP level > 200 ng/mL at LT (P = 0.001), and HCC status outside the UCSF criteria at LT (P < 0.001) were identified as risk factors that were significantly associated with RFS after salvage LT. The gene discussed is AFP; the disease is hepatocellular carcinoma.