Multivariate analysis revealed that DDX21 expression (HR: 2.098, 95% CI: 1.294–3.403, p=0.003), tumor size (HR: 1.899, 95% CI: 1.184–3.047, p=0.008), and BCLC stage (HR: 2.958, 95% CI: 1.826–4.792, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for overall survival in HCC patients. This evidence concerns the gene DDX21 and neoplasm.