Analysis of 69 Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cases from the National Center for Pathology in Mongolia : A Comprehensive Study of Samples Collected Nationwide

Abstract

The high rate of chronic hepatitis, including hepatitis B, C and D, in Mongolia creates a large health burden of advanced liver disease. This includes liver failure and the highest incidence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. In the present study, we histopathologically examined 69 recent cases of HCC from the Mongolian National Center for Pathology, which collects specimens from across the country. The background liver histology of HCC exhibited a bimodal distribution, with one peak corresponding to advanced liver fibrosis and another to mild liver fibrosis. The fibrosis severity negatively correlated with age. Additionally, the frequency of poorly differentiated tumors was significantly higher in the HCC with early stage of fibrosis. A comparison of the pathological characteristics of HCC in urban and rural areas showed that poorly differentiated tumors were highly prevalent in urban areas. The characteristics of HCC in Mongolia are different from those in other countries, suggesting that the causes of liver disease are not only related to viruses but also other factors that depend on the region. This study will provide insight into what research is needed next for liver cancer control in Mongolia. J. Med. Invest. 72 : 47-53, February, 2025