Value of combined detection of serum AFP and GP73 in early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma

Objective To investigate the value of combined detection of serum alpha- fetoprotein (AFP) and Golgi protein- 73 (GP73) in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to provide a basis for early diagnosis and differential diagnosis of HCC. Methods A total of 408 patients hospitalized in Baoji Central Hospital from June 2012 to May 2013, as well as healthy persons who had normal test results in physical examination, were included in the study, and their specimens were collected. These patients were classified into HCC group (n =142) , chronic hepatitis group (n =156) , and liver cirrhosis group (n =110) . Serum levels of AFP and GP73 in the three groups were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay and double- antibody sandwich enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.Comparison of test results between groups was made by analysis of variance, and comparison of rates was made by chi- square test. The sensitivity and specificity of the two indicators for the diagnosis of HCC were calculated using MedCalc statistical software. Results The HCC group had significantly higher serum AFP and GP73 levels than the liver cirrhosis group and chronic hepatitis group ( P < 0. 05) ; the liver cirrhosis group had significantly higher serum AFP and GP73 levels than the chronic hepatitis group (P < 0. 05) . The sensitivity and specificity of the two indicators for the diagnosis of HCC were 95. 8% and 98. 6%, respectively, showing significant differences compared with those of each indicator alone (P < 0. 05) . Conclusion Combined detection of serum AFP and GP73 has high diagnostic value and clinical significance for HCC, and they can be used as indicators for early diagnosis and differential diagnosis of HCC.