Antigenic markers of hepatocellular carcinoma

One hundred thirty‐five hepatocellular carcinomas were examined for the presence of antigenic tumor markers by the avidin‐biotin‐peroxidase complex method. Ninety‐seven were from the US and 38 came from Argentina. The following markers were tested: alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT), hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg), hepatitis D delta antigen (HDδAg), and Mallory's bodies (MB). In the US cases, AFP was present in 43%, AAT in 41%, HBsAg in 17%, and MB in 48%. Both HBcAg and HDδAg were absent. In the cases from Argentina, AFP was found in 26% and AAT in 18%. None of the other antigens were seen. Thirteen US tumors expressed three antigens and two four antigens simultaneously. This study reveals in humans a heterogenous expression of antigens by neoplastic hepatocytes with geographic differences, possibly due to multiple factors such as alcohol consumption or prevalence of hepatitis B infection.