Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and cancer

Clin Liver Dis. 2007 Feb;11(1):191-207, x-xi. doi: 10.1016/j.cld.2007.02.006.

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is part of the natural history of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). A significant proportion of people who have cryptogenic cirrhosis develop HCC. NASH-related cirrhosis carries a substantial risk for early HCC development. Diagnosis of HCC often is made at first referral; the tumor usually is large with multiple localizations. Patients who have obesity or diabetes are at risk for HCC and a variety of cancers. Given the epidemic of obesity and diabetes, the incidence of NASH-related HCC is expected to increase. In addition to developing new diagnostic tools and pharmacologic therapies, efforts should be directed at preventing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / etiology*
  • Fatty Liver / complications*
  • Fatty Liver / pathology
  • Hepatitis / complications*
  • Hepatitis / pathology
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Metabolic Syndrome / complications
  • Obesity / complications