An Intensive Surveillance Program Detected a High Incidence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Among Hepatitis B Virus Carriers With Abnormal Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels or Abdominal Ultrasonography Results

Abstract

This study illustrated that a high incidence of relatively small HCCs may be detected by using intensive surveillance of high-risk HBV carriers. However, the surgical resection rate was low, and we were not able to demonstrate clinical benefit with the early detection. Future surveillance studies should consider incorporation of therapy aimed at long-term control of small-sized tumors.