They were subdivided into 2 groups according to their serum ALT levels: serum ALT levels showed several peaks or plateaus above 80 IU were designated as Group A, and serum ALT levels showed a sustained low level below 80 IU until first recurrence were designated as Group B. In Group A, HCC recurred within 3 years in 70.6% of patients. This evidence concerns the gene GPT and hepatocellular carcinoma.