The multivariate Cox-regression analyses showed that the AFP level (OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.12–3.29, P = 0.018), cirrhosis (HR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.03–1.74, P = 0.030), Child‒Pugh grade (HR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.12–3.29, P = 0.018), macrovascular invasion (HR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.25–3.21, P = 0.004), MVI (HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.03–1.58, P = 0.034), satellite nodules (HR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.72–3.57, P < 0.001) and tumour diameter (HR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.28–2.19, P < 0.001) were independently and significantly associated with CSS (Table 4). Here, AFP is linked to neoplasm.