Hepatocellular carcinoma: an emerging problem with hepatitis C.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is emerging as a major problem in the United States, primarily due to the development of liver cancer in patients with cirrhosis secondary to the hepatitis C virus. The diagnosis of HCC in patients with underlying cirrhosis can be achieved at an early stage if appropriate diagnostic measures are pursued by primary care physicians and gastroenterologists. African Americans are particularly vulnerable in developing HCC since their response to current therapy for chronic hepatitis C is less than optimal.