True or False: Patients with cirrhosis have a high incidence of HCC.

Patients with cirrhosis indeed have a high incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Cirrhosis represents a significant risk factor for the development of HCC, as it indicates severe liver damage and the presence of a chronic liver disease. The underlying mechanisms involve the progression of liver fibrosis, chronic inflammation, and cellular changes associated with the repair process of liver tissue, which can lead to malignant transformations.

The relationship between cirrhosis and HCC is well-documented in clinical studies, revealing that patients with cirrhosis can have a risk of HCC that is several times higher than that of the general population. Particularly, the etiology of the cirrhosis, such as viral hepatitis or alcoholic liver disease, can further modulate the risk. Regular surveillance in patients diagnosed with cirrhosis is recommended due to the elevated risk of HCC, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management of this serious complication.