Can therapy of hepatitis C affect the development of hepatocellular carcinoma?
Chronic inflammation induced by viral infections and their role in carcinogenesis is well recognized. Two hepatotropic viruses, hepatitis B and hepatitis C (HCV), have been linked worldwide to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although orthotopic liver transplant offers the best chance for cure and long-term survival, the demand for organs far outweighs the supply. The incidence of HCC in the United States has increased over the past 3 decades. HCV-induced cirrhosis is believed to play a significant role in the rising rate of HCC. Therefore, primary measures to prevent HCC in HCV-infected patients are urgently needed. Numerous studies of the HCV HCC patient have considered primary treatment with interferon-based therapy. However, secondary prevention currently seems to carry more promise. This article evaluates and assesses various treatments for primary and secondary chemoprevention in the setting of HCV.
Kulik
Laura M
LM
Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, 60611, USA. LKulik@nmff.org
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007372:Interferons / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000998:Antiviral Agents; D007372:Interferons