Methylated Gene p15 and APC Gene as Biomarkers in Detection of HCC Versus MRI Diffusion in Cirrhotic Patients

Background/Objectives: MRI of the liver is an important tool for detection and characterization of focal liver lesions. Epigenetic biomarkers is a noninvasive approach for early detection of HCC in high-risk patients. We work to determine the sensitivity and specificity of methylated gene pl5 and Adenomatous polyposis coli gene in detection of HCC aiming to replace liver biopsy especially in patients with bleeding diathesis and to make a comparison between laboratory biomarkers and MRI in their abilities in detection of HCC. Methods: Sixty cirrhotic patients with hepatic focal lesions subjected to the following investigations: Hepatitis C virrus anti-bodies, Hepatitis B surface antigen, Methylated gene pl5 and Adenomatous polyposis coli gene in serum by Polymerase chain reaction, Abdominal Ultrasound, Liver biopsy and MRI diffusion abdomen.Results: Methylated gene pl5 is more sensitive and specific than MRI in detection of HCC. The combination of methylated gene pl5 and MRI raise the sensitivity and specificity in detection of HCC. Adenomatous polyposis coli gene is less sensitive and less specific than methylated gene pl5 and MRI in detection of HCC.Conclusion: Methylated gene pl5 is more sensitive and specific than MRI and Adenomatous polyposis coli gene in detection of HCC. The combination of methylated gene pl5 and MRI diffusion together will increase sensitivity of HCC detection up to 100% and this will make diagnosis more accurate and decreases the need for liver biopsy in diagnosis.