Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients 20 Years after Achieving a Sustained Virological Response with Interferon Therapy: A Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Advances in interferon (IFN)-based therapy for chronic hepatitis C have led to a high rate of sustained virological response (SVR), which means viral clearance. However, some cases have been reported to develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) over 10 years after achieving the SVR. Here, we report two patients who developed HCC 20 years after SVR with IFN therapy. Both of the patients were male and achieved SVR at the age of 46 years and 61 years, respectively. These cases suggest the need for long-term follow-up in patients with chronic hepatitis C even if SVR is achieved.