A Case of Repeated Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma Associated with Hepatitis C in a Patient Who Had Obtained a Sustained and Complete Response to Interferon Therapy

Abstract

A 72-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) successfully treated with interferon (IFN) for hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related chronic hepatitis underwent right lobectomy of the liver for HCV-related HCC in June 1996. Pathological findings showed well-differentiated HCC. He underwent successful postoperative IFN therapy for chronic hepatitis C from September 1996. He showed retained loss of HCV RNA and normal aspartate and alanine aminotransferase (AST and ALT). HCC reccurred, however, in segment 4 of the liver, which was resected in January 2001. Pathological findings showed moderately differentiated HCC. Postoperatively, he showed retained loss of HCV RNA and normal AST and ALT. A new lesion was detected on ultrasonography screening in October 2003. Ultrasonography and CT showed a tumor 18 mm in diameter in segment 3 of the liver. Based on the diagnosis of recurrent HCC, he underwent partial resection of segment 3 in October 2003. This case underscores the importance of long-term observation in cases successfully treated with IFN for HCV-related hepatitis.