AFP and hepatocellular carcinoma: We retrospectively analyzed prospectively-collected data in the Italian Liver Cancer (ITA.LI.CA) study group database of 2706 HCC patients accrued till 2008 at 11 centers [1,2] who had full baseline tumor parameter data, including CT scan information on maximum tumor diameter (MTD), number of tumor nodules and presence of PVT and plasma AFP levels; blood counts; routine blood liver function tests, (total bilirubin, GGTP, albumin); demographics and survival information.