Clin Mol Hepatol.  2019 Sep;25(3):234-244. 10.3350/cmh.2018.0108.

Development and surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with sustained virologic response after antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C

• Na SK
• Song BC

• KMID: 2459785
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3350/cmh.2018.0108

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major risk factor for liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and is a leading cause of liver-related deaths worldwide. Recently available direct-acting antiviral agent is very safe and highly effective (>95% sustained virologic response, SVR) against all genotypes of HCV. Achievement of SVR has been associated with a significant reduction of hepatic decompensation, development of HCC, and liver-related mortality. However, HCC risk is not eliminated even after SVR. The annual incidences of HCC in advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis have been estimated to be up to 2.5-4.5% even in patients with SVR. Therefore, surveillance for HCC is recommended in this high-risk patients. In this review, we will describe the clinical outcomes and the risk of HCC in patients with SVR and suggest who should receive surveillance for HCC.

Keyword

Chronic hepatitis C; Sustained virologic response; Hepatocellular carcinoma

MeSH Terms

Carcinoma, Hepatocellular*
Fibrosis
Genotype
Hepacivirus
Hepatitis C, Chronic*
Hepatitis, Chronic*
Humans
Incidence
Liver Cirrhosis
Mortality
Risk Factors