EVALUATION OF METABOLIC FACTORS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF HEPATOCARCINOMA IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LIVER DISEASE.

Introduction and Objectives

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is currently among the main etiologies for its development. This study aims to evaluate the impact of metabolic factors on HCC development in patients with chronic liver disease.

Materials and Methods

This was an observational, retrospective, descriptive, analytical, case-control study. A total of 198 patients were included: 98 with cirrhosis without HCC and 100 with cirrhosis and HCC. Metabolic factors, such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, were evaluated in relation to the development of HCC.

Results

A total of 198 patients with cirrhosis were included, average age was 58.9+/-10.8 years, 112 (56.6%) men, 62 (31.3%) diabetic, 53 (26.8%) hypertensive, dyslipidemic 17 (8.6%), overweight/obese 110 (55.5%). The only metabolic factor associated with increased risk of HCC was diabetes 40/62 vs. 60/136 non-diabetics (OR=2.3; 95%CI: 1.2-4.3; p=0.008).

Conclusions

The rising prevalence of MASLD as a cause for cirrhosis implies that the prevalence of HCC will increase. In this study, diabetes was shown to be an important risk factor for the development of HCC. Its identification is crucial to initiate preventative measures from the primary level of care.

Conflict of interest: None

Etiology of cirrhosis in patients with hepatocarcinoma.