Measurement of Serum Des-γ-Carboxy Prothrombin (DCP) for Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection

Investigators:

Principal Investigator: Anna S.F. Lok

Co-Investigator: Leonard Seeff

Hypotheses/Aims

It is proposed that serum measurement of DCP will enhance the yield of detection of HCC in conjunction with AFP and ultrasonography during the HALT-C trial. However, this test will not affect decision-making for the diagnosis of HCC.

1. Evaluate the usefulness of serum des-γ-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) as a tumor marker for detecting HCC in persons with chronic hepatitis C.
2. Analyze the data of patients who develop HCC during the study period to model the relationship between DCP, AFP, and tumor growth.