Abstract:
Background: Studies have shown marked variation in the sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) of serum alpha fetoprotein (AFP) in the diagnostic process of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In Saudi Arabia, HCC is one of the most common malignancies affecting both men and women, necessitating evaluation of the value of AFP in the diagnostic process of HCC in a local setting. Objective: To determine PPV of AFP for diagnosing HCC based on the experience at a Saudi tertiary care center. Methods: A retrospective-prospective cohort study. Hospital charts were reviewed to gather information on patients who underwent AFP and liver biopsy during a single hospital stay. A 2 X2 table was constructed to calculate sensitivity, specificity and PPV. Results: The sensitivity and specificity of AFP in detecting HCC was 73% and 91 % respectively, with a PPV of 66%. Conclusion: AFP is a useful diagnostic test for HCC in susceptible patients in a tertiary care setting.
Page(s):
267-270
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, Volume: 21, Issue: 3, Year: 2005