Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma in high-risk individuals. A clinical review.
Hepatocellular carcinoma occurs primarily in individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection and cirrhosis. This tumor is curable only when diagnosed at an early stage and then surgically resected. Therefore, screening tests have been used to identify small tumors in high-risk patients. Currently, the most sensitive and specific tests available involve measurement of serum alpha-fetoprotein levels and high-resolution ultrasonography. The results of these tests are often complementary in making a diagnosis. To be most cost-effective, the frequency of screening can be adjusted to the degree of risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Regan
L S
LS
Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco.
D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008403:Mass Screening; D012307:Risk Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins / Q000032:analysis
D006514:Hepatitis B Surface Antigens; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins