Predictors of alpha‐fetoprotein elevation in patients with chronic hepatitis C, but not hepatocellular carcinoma, and its normalization after pegylated interferon alfa 2a–ribavirin combination therapy

Abstract

Older age, low platelet count, higher AST levels, and advanced fibrosis predisposed chronic hepatitis C patients without HCC to have elevated serum AFP levels. After Peg-IFN/RBV combination therapy, a higher platelet count and HCV viral eradication were determinants of normal AFP at EOF. Serial AFP levels decreased after treatment, presenting in a time-dependent manner, specifically for the SVR group.