The ATSI score was developed from two independent prognostic risk factors: baseline AFP ≥ 400 ng/ml (HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.01–2.96, P = 0.046) and initial tumor shape irregularity (HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.03–3.65, P = 0.041). Here, AFP is linked to neoplasm.