Is there a way to screen people with hepatitis c for liver cancer?

MD, SONO, AFP lab: Liver cancer (ca) in hep c generally occurs if there is cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. Hep b can get ca without cirrhosis. Check with md for viral load, genotype, other possible hep viruses, other causes chronic liver disease (autoimmune, iron, copper disease). May need liver biopsy to decide on need for rx (and type). Sonogram (no xrays), Alpha feto protein (afp, tumor marker).

Yes: Three modalities: ultrasound, ct scan (imaging) and alpha-fetoprotein levels (blood). Most clinicians will alternate AFP and us every six months, reserving ct for abnormal us findings.

Dr Bose agreed