Cost-effectiveness of recall strategies for non-invasive diagnosis of small hepatocellular carcinoma

Cost analysis of recall strategies for non-invasive diagnosis of small hepatocellular carcinoma.

Abstract Background Which is the least expensive recall policy for nodules in the cirrhotic liver remains unclear. Aim Aim of the study was to analyze the costs of different recall diagnostic strategies of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on cirrhosis on a real series of patients. Methods 75 consecutive small liver nodules (10–30 mm) detected at conventional ultrasonography in 60 patients with cirrhosis were submitted to contrast-enhanced ultrasound, computed tomography and gadolinium-magnetic resonance imaging with a final diagnosis established according to the latest guidelines which include different strategies for nodules 10–19 mm or ≥20 mm. The actual costs required to fully characterise…