Early-age hepatocellular carcinoma associated with hepatitis B infection in South America

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary malignancy of the liver and is associated almost universally with chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Risk factors for HCC generally vary by geographic region. To date, studies have focused on characterizing patients with HCC in Europe, North America, Asia, and, to a lesser extent, Africa.1,2 However, little is known about the underlying demographic characteristics and risk factors for HCC in South America, particularly the association between viral hepatitis and HCC.