T regulatory cells (Tregs) are typically raised in HCC patients compared to healthy individuals, however, this is significantly reduced post-TACE.81 This extends to other tumour types as increases in the peripheral blood CD8:Treg ratio are observed post thermal ablation of lung, leiomyosarcoma, desmoid, liver and bone tumours.82 Similarly, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) which are associated with worse prognosis in HCC are decreased post-RFA.83 However, the ability to generate a proinflammatory TME and change the immune system landscape is inconsistent. Here, CD8A is linked to hepatocellular carcinoma.