Role of surveillance in prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common malignancy and one of the important public health problems in India. The surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an established approach to detect early cancers in patients with defined risks. However, there are still controversies and issues to be addressed regarding the optimal surveillance methods and interval. The current level of awareness among physicians in India about surveillance is low and the need and most cost effective surveillance strategy in developing country like ours is unclear. This article has tried to discuss these issues in their appropriate perspective. To address this complicated issue, a multicenter randomized prospective study however may be required.

Keywords: AFP, alpha-fetoprotein; CI, confidence interval; CLD, chronic liver disease; DCP, des-γ-carboxy-prothrombin; HBV, hepatitis B virus; HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma; HCV, hepatitis C virus; NAFLD, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; NASH, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; QI, quality improvement; RCT, randomized controlled trial; TPCT, triple phase CT scan; US, ultrasound; USG, ultra sonogram; USG, ultrasonography; cost effective strategy; hepatocellular carcinoma; prevention; surveillance.