Assessment of Lipid Profile in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients: A Prospective Study In Bangladesh

Md Tahsin Salam¹, Moushumi Afroza Mou², Kaniz Fatima Bari³, Nikhil Chandra Roy⁴, Abdullah-Al-Mamun⁵, Md. Sefaut Ullah⁶, Mohammad Anowar Hussen⁷, Md Sohel Rana⁸, Md Babul Hossain⁹

This study showed lipid profiles as potential biomarkers for early HCC detection, prognosis, and targets for new therapeutic interventions.

Abstract

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with a high incidence in Bangladesh. Disruptions in lipid metabolism are a hallmark of liver diseases, including HCC. Understanding the lipid profile in HCC patients can provide insights into the disease's pathophysiology and aid in developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Objective: This study aims to assess the lipid profile in HCC patients in Bangladesh to identify potential diagnostic markers and understand the metabolic alterations associated with the disease. Method: A prospective study was conducted on 356 HCC patients admitted to IBN Sina Specialized Hospital, Dhaka, between June 2022 and December 2023. Blood samples were collected to measure total cholesterol levels, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The lipid profiles of these patients were compared with a control group of healthy individuals. Results: HCC patients exhibited significant alterations in their lipid profiles compared to the control group. Total cholesterol increased by 18.3% (220 mg/dL vs. 186 mg/dL), triglycerides by 25% (190 mg/dL vs. 152 mg/dL), LDL cholesterol by 29.6% (140 mg/dL vs. 108 mg/dL), and HDL cholesterol decreased by 22.4% (38 mg/dL vs. 49 mg/dL) (p<0.001). Advanced tumor stages showed an additional 10% reduction in HDL and a 15% increase in LDL. Impaired liver function led to a further 12% rise in total cholesterol and 20% in triglycerides. These lipid changes were significantly associated with HCC progression and poorer prognosis. Conclusions: The study demonstrates significant dyslipidemia in HCC patients, suggesting that lipid profile alterations could serve as potential biomarkers for early detection and prognosis of HCC. Further research into lipid metabolism pathways in HCC could lead to novel therapeutic targets.

Keywords: Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Lipid Profile, Dyslipidemia, Biomarker.

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