As hepatologist we know that the major cause of mortality in cirrhosis is Hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Other events that to lead to death in these patients are – upper GI bleed from varices, sepsis from spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (infection of the belly fluid), hepatorenal syndrome leading to renal failure.
To detect HCC, I order 6 monthly US and AFP levels. However, various studies have revealed that the sensitivity is only about 40-60%, ,meaning out of 10 patients with cancer it would only detect 4, hence 6 patients would be missed.
Recently, newer biomarkers : AFP-L3 and DCP plus US, provide a sensitivity of nearly 85% . These markers also have another added advantage that they are also RISK markers, meaning a rising level is predictive of developing cancer. AFP-L3 ratio to AFP is used as biomarker, and level >10% predicts increased risk of developing HCC.
I plan to integrate these markers in my clinical practice, and early detection of cancer.
If you wish to see me, please schedule a visit at one of the locations : 281-557-2527
- Clear Lake Office (Wesbter)
1015 Medical Center Blvd
Suite 1300, Webster, TX 77598
Phone: (281) 557-2527
- Satellite Office 2
7111 Medical Center Drive
2nd Floor
Texas City, TX 77591
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call my office 281-557-2527, and I would be more than happy to call you back and talk to you for free. I believe this is the least I can do to better the lives of people who are trying to find the right answers.
Follow
No comment