Role of Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence II in Comparison to Alpha-Feto Protein in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

Background: One of the most prevalent primary liver cancers in the world, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is frequently linked to cirrhosis and chronic liver disease. Because widely used biomarkers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) have poor sensitivity and specificity, especially in early-stage disease, early identification of HCC is still difficult. Des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP), or protein generated by vitamin K absence or antagonist-II (PIVKA-II), has become a promising diagnostic for the detection and monitoring of HCC. The diagnostic performance of PIVKA-II alone or in conjunction with AFP has been assessed in a number of studies, indicating that the evaluation of both markers together may enhance the early diagnosis and monitoring of HCC. This study highlights the clinical benefit of combining both biomarkers in the diagnosis and surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma and summarizes the available data addressing the role of PIVKA-II in comparison to AFP.