Subgroup analysis, according to the molecular-weight of AdipoQ, showed no significant difference about high-molecular-weight AdipoQ (SMD = − 0.01, 95% CI (− 0.20, 0.18), P = 0.911) and non-high-molecular-weight AdipoQ (SMD = 0.28, 95% CI (− 0.06, 0.62), P = 0.103) levels in the HCC group and CFC group (Fig. 8). Here, ADIPOQ is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.