Risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis c infection and stage 3 fibrosis after sustained virological response

Rev Esp Enferm Dig. 2022 Jun;114(6):309-311. doi: 10.17235/reed.2022.8840/2022.

Abstract

Evidence on the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with stage 3 liver fibrosis (F3) and SVR is scarce and continues to generate uncertainty. Furthermore, the distinction between F3 and F4 disease is complex. Consequently, the latest international guidelines recommend using the same screening protocol for HCC after SVR in both F3 and F4 patients. However, the risk of HCC in these groups is possibly different and maintaining screening for HCC in this population indefinitely generates an excessive burden for the health system. This editorial aims to review the available evidence on this topic.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular* / drug therapy
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular* / epidemiology
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular* / etiology
  • Hepatitis C* / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / complications
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Liver Cirrhosis / epidemiology
  • Liver Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Liver Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Liver Neoplasms* / etiology

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents