Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Cirrhotic Patients: Frequency, Seroprevalence Of Hepatitis B And C And Patient Profile

Abstract

Objective: To find out frequency of hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients and to
determine seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C and profile of these patients.
Material and Methods: This study was done in Sheikh Zayed Medical College/Hospital,
Rahim Yar Khan from February to August 2009. One hundred cirrhotic patients admitted in
medical wards were evaluated for demographic and clinical features, seroprevalence of hepatitis
B and C and Child Pugh score and class. Those having focal defect in liver on ultrasound were
further investigated for serum alphafetoprotein, CT scan abdomen and fine needle aspiration for
histopathological examination.
Results: Eighteen patients were found to have HCC with mean age of 53 years, 78% of these
patients were male. Eighty three percent were anti-HCV positive, 6% were both HBs Ag and antiHCV positive and 11% were seronegative. Mean Child score of these patients was 9.16. Main
presenting symptoms were massive ascites, hematemesis/melena, hepatic encephalopathy and
jaundice.
Conclusion: HCC is a common complication of hepatitis C associated cirrhosis.