Large-Scale Long-Term Follow-Up Study of Japanese Patients With Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease for the Onset of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

This retrospective study indicates that the annual incidence rate of HCC among Japanese NAFLD patients is low. Elderly NAFLD patients with diabetes, elevated serum AST, and especially thrombocytopenia (suggested to be associated with advanced liver fibrosis) should be monitored carefully during follow-up that includes using the APRI to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of HCC.