In the surveillance of patients with known risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma, numerous obstacles exist on the provider and system levels. A recent survey of physicians sought to identify them so they can be eliminated.
“Most cases of HCC occur in patients with known risk factors, and expert society guidelines are for surveillance with ultrasound with or without serum alpha-fetoprotein every six months. Fewer than 20% of patients, however, undergo recommended surveillance,”