What are my chances of having liver cancer as a result of having hemochromatosis?
If you start phlebotomies before cirrhosis of the liver starts, then the chances of a liver cancer (hepatoma) are not any higher than in the rest of the population. You can detect the beginning of liver cancer by checking the blood periodically with a test called alpha-fetoprotein. Annual or bi-annual ultrasounds of the liver are also advisable in patients with cirrhosis or suspected cirrhosis of the liver. Persons with HH should have the alpha fetoprotein test done two or three times a year. Even in persons without confirmed cirrhosis, the alpha fetoprotein test should be performed just in case. It is an extra security measure. If a hepatoma is found early, it can be removed with a partial liver resection. In some cases, there can be a cure.
