Method for detection of hepatocellar carcinoma (HCC) using an octanoate breath test

摘要

The present invention relates to methods and systems for diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Specifically, the present invention relates to the use of breath tests based on isotope-labeled octanoate in the detection and monitoring of HCC.

主权项

1. A method for detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a subject, the method comprising the steps of:
(i) administering an isotope-labeled octanoate to the subject; (ii) measuring a level of an isotope-labeled metabolic product of octanoate in exhaled breath of the subject following administration of the isotope-labeled octanoate; (iii) comparing the measured level of isotope-labeled metabolic product of octanoate in the subject to a reference level; and (iv) detecting hepatocellular carcinoma based on the measured level of isotope-labeled metabolic product of octanoate; wherein a significantly decreased level of isotope-labeled metabolic product of octanoate is indicative of active hepatocellular carcinoma; and wherein detecting hepatocellular carcinoma comprises distinguishing between impaired liver function caused by fibrosis or cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.