Aflatoxins, B1, B2, G1, G2 in primary liver cell carcinoma

Aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2 levels were determined in sera of 20 patients with primary liver cell carcinoma (CC). Values of B1 above 0.15 microgram/ml were obtained in sera of three patients. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected in only 35% of patients. 50-90% of serum levels were cleared in 24 h in three patients studied. Although it is inconclusive as to the carcinogenic potential of aflatoxins in adult man, foodstuffs should be protected from excessive aflatoxin contamination.