Association of cancer-related cytokines and mitochondrial DNA alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma patients and HIV-positive individuals in Ghana - Scorecard - MDSpire

Association of cancer-related cytokines and mitochondrial DNA alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma patients and HIV-positive individuals in Ghana

  • By

  • James Odame Aboagye

  • Ruth Ayanful-Torgby

  • Lei Zhou

  • Prince Peter Wormenor

  • Vincent Ganu

  • Kenneth Tachi

  • Bernard Nii Akrashie Attoh

  • Miriam Mensah

  • Timothy Kuuguu

  • Sedzro Kojo Mensah

  • George Boateng Kyei

  • Elijah Paintsil

  • November 11, 2025

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Association of cancer-related cytokines and mitochondrial DNA alterations in hepatocellular carcinoma patients and HIV-positive individuals in Ghana

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals living with HIV
Key MechanismsCytokine secretion leading to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation
Target PopulationPeople living with HIV (PLWH), particularly those with HBV or HCV coinfection
Care SettingKorle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana

Key Highlights

  • HCC incidence is rising among PLWH, especially those aged 50 and older.
  • Cytokines play a significant role in the development and progression of HCC.
  • PLWH with HBV or HCV coinfection are at higher risk for HCC.
  • Chronic inflammation from cytokine imbalance is linked to cancer development.
  • The prevalence of HCC in HIV-endemic regions is significantly higher than in non-endemic areas.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Screening for HCC in PLWH should consider cytokine levels and liver function tests.

Management

  • Manage chronic hepatitis infections to reduce HCC risk in PLWH.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular monitoring of liver function and HIV viral load is essential.

Risks

  • Increased risk of HCC in PLWH with chronic HBV or HCV infections.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Adults aged 18 and above with HIV and/or HCC due to viral hepatitis.

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces AIDS-defining cancers but non-AIDS-defining cancers like HCC are increasing.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Implement routine screening for HCC in PLWH, especially those with hepatitis coinfections.
  • Educate patients on the importance of regular liver function tests.
  • Encourage adherence to ART to manage HIV effectively.

References

Original Source(s)

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