| Theme | The Forefront of Hepatitis C Treatment | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Inhibition of Hepatocarcinogenesis through Antiviral Treatment for Viral Hepatitis C Patients | |
| Publish Date | 2012/10 | |
| Author | Yoshiaki Katano | Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] | In Japan, approximately 70 % of patients diagnosed with hepatocelluar carcinoma (HCC) are positive for hepatitis C antibody. Even in the absence of liver cirrhosis, patients with chronic hepatitis C are at high risk of developing HCC. The most effective strategy for the prevention of HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis C is to achieve sustained virologic response (SVR) with antiviral treatment, such as interfern (IFN). Normalization of alanine aminotransferase levels and a decrease in alpha-fetoprotein levels can contribute to the inhibition of the onset of HCC even in non-SVR patients receiving IFN therapy. Long-term IFN therapy for elderly patients with chronic hepatitis C is effective in preventing hepatocarcinogenesis. In addition, IFN therapy after curative treatment for HCV-related HCC is effective for the prevention of HCC recurrence. | |