A concise review of serum markers for hepatocellular cancer.
BACKGROUND
The rising incidence of hepatocellular cancer in the US and worldwide has sparked a renewed interest in HCC serum markers. HCC typically develops in patients with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. It is in these target populations that serum markers are most urgently needed. Unfortunately, the currently available markers lack sensitivity and specificity. A number of novel candidate markers have recently been introduced.


METHODS
We performed a review of the literature (2001-2006) of traditional and novel serum markers for hepatocellular cancer.


RESULTS
Several promising new HCC markers have been identified over the past 5 years. They include single proteins, complex proteomics features, and tumor-specific autoantibodies. The excitement about the new markers is tempered by the realization that none of them have yet met the most stringent criteria defined by the Early Detection Research Network (EDRN).


CONCLUSIONS
A new generation of HCC serum markers awaits validation in properly controlled clinical studies.
Wright
Lorinda M
LM
Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Loyola University, Chicago, 2160 South First Avenue, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
Kreikemeier
Jeff T
JT
Fimmel
Claus J
CJ
D001323:Autoantibodies / Q000097:blood; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000097:blood*; D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000097:blood* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000097:blood* / Q000276:immunology; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins / Q000097:blood; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D001323:Autoantibodies; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins