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Updated: Apr 4, 2026
A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Familial hepatocellular carcinoma in an endemic area: two case reports
Elroy P Weledji1, Dickson S Nsagha2, George Enoworock3
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, PO Box 126, Limbe, S.W. Region, Buea, Cameroon. elroypat@yahoo.co.uk.
Background:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually affects patients aged 50-70 years but earlier onset (25-40 years) may occur in hepatitis B endemic areas. 70-90% of HCC develop on a background of cirrhosis. However, hepatitis B virus is directly oncogenic and can cause HCC in the absence of cirrhosis. This may represent a major cause of death from late diagnosis in resource-limited areas.
Case Presentation:
We report a black African family in which clinical diagnosis of HCC was made on two male siblings in the south west region of Cameroon.
Conclusions:
The highest risk for HCC may occur in families in which a hereditary component may be acting in concert with hepatitis B virus. In all cases of HCC, it is important to screen all first degree relatives to detect early and asymptomatic disease.
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