A Cross Sectional Study Evaluating the Mean Levels of Alpha Fetoprotein in Patients of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Correlates in Pakistan

Clinical Correlation of Alpha-Fetoprotein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: a Cross-Sectional Study from Southeast Asia

This study aims to explore the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein often elevated in liver cancer, in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The goal is to determine whether AFP levels vary based on the size of the liver tumor or other health conditions like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and obesity. By analyzing data from 94 patients, the study seeks to identify factors that influence AFP levels, which may help in understanding liver cancer progression and improving diagnosis and treatment approaches.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 27 to 80 years.
• Diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within the last three months.
• Diagnosis confirmed by relevant investigations (e.g., imaging, liver biopsy).
• Able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels due to tumors other than HCC.
• Presence of secondary liver metastases from other primary sites.
• Any significant comorbid conditions that could interfere with study assessments.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.