A 55-year-old man with a history of chronic hepatitis C presents to the clinic with unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Laboratory tests show elevated liver enzymes, and imaging reveals a liver mass. The medical team is evaluating the patient for hepatoma.
Which one of the following statements is true regarding hepatoma?
A. Primary tumors are more common than secondary.
B. Raised AFP is specific for diagnosis.
C. Secondary tumors are usually solitary at the time of diagnosis.
D. Hepatitis C is a predisposing factor.
Answer:
The Correct Answer is: D. Hepatitis C is a predisposing factor
Explanation:
Hepatitis C is a predisposing factor (D):
– Hepatitis C infection is a well-known risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as hepatoma. Chronic infection with hepatitis C can lead to liver cirrhosis, which significantly increases the risk of HCC.
– Other risk factors for HCC include chronic hepatitis B infection, alcohol-related liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
Primary tumors are more common than secondary (A):
– In the liver, secondary (metastatic) tumors are more common than primary liver cancers. The liver is a common site for metastasis from cancers such as colorectal, breast, and lung cancer.
– Hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer) is less common compared to metastatic liver disease.
Raised AFP is specific for diagnosis (B):
– Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a tumor marker that can be elevated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, but it is not specific for HCC. Elevated AFP can also be seen in other liver diseases and germ cell tumors.
– AFP is used as a diagnostic aid, but imaging studies and biopsy are needed for definitive diagnosis.
Secondary tumors are usually solitary at the time of diagnosis (C):
– Secondary (metastatic) liver tumors are often multiple rather than solitary at the time of diagnosis. Metastatic disease to the liver usually presents with multiple lesions due to the liver’s rich blood supply and filtration function.
In conclusion, the statement that is true regarding hepatoma is that hepatitis C is a predisposing factor, making option D the correct answer.