Assessment of serum CXCL9 and pentraxin 3 as novel markers for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic hepatitis C patients.

Aim of the study: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary cancer of the liver. It is also one of the world's most common cancers and an important leading cause of cancer mortality in many parts of the world. As a result, it is essential to look for efficient markers for early and accurate HCC diagnosis. CXCL9 and pentraxin 3 are involved in the pathway of many cancers. The aim of the study was to assess the value of serum CXCL9 and pentraxin 3 as diagnostic markers of HCC among cirrhotic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients.

Material and methods: The current study was conducted on 90 candidates divided into 3 groups: group I - 30 patients with HCV induced liver cirrhosis without HCC; group II - 30 patients with HCV induced liver cirrhosis with HCC; group III - 30 healthy subjects (control group). All candidates were subjected to detailed history taking and thorough clinical examination, laboratory investigations, serum CXCL9, serum pentraxin 3, ultrasound abdomen and CT triphasic liver in group III.

Results: Serum CXCL9 and serum pentraxin 3 levels were significantly higher in group II than group I and significantly higher in group I than group III.

Conclusions: Serum CXCL9 and serum pentraxin 3 could be utilized as diagnostic markers for HCC.