Predictive Value of Biomarkers Fibrinogen Like Protein-2 and A-Fetoprotein for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Among Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

1. Abstract

1.1. Aim: Data concerning the utility of biomarkers for accurate early HCC detection in cirrhotic patients are lacking. 1.2. Methods: We evaluated 112 consecutive Caucasian cirrhotic patients with (n=28) or without (n=84) concomitant HCC at baseline for serum AFP and plasma fibrinogen like protein-2 (FGL-2) levels. Patients without confirmed HCC at baseline were further followed up every six months with ultrasound and serum AFP levels, according to HCC surveillance program. Imaging as well as histological confirmation of HCC was established in patients with new lesions. Du