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A number of studies have shown that hepatitis virus infections may be associated with cholangiocarcinoma. However, the relationship between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and cholangiocarcinoma, especially intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, is still controversial.
Dr Jianping Gong and colleagues from China identified relevant studies by searching PUBMED, EMBASE and Web of Science Datebases up to 2011. The research team identified a total of 18 papers for this meta-analysis.  | | A total of 18 papers were identified for this meta-analysis | | Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology |
The pooled risk estimate of all studies showed a statistically significant increased risk of colorectal cancer among individuals with HBV infection. The team found that compared with those without HBV infection, persons with HBV infection had an increased risk of intra-cholangiocarcinoma, extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and cholangiocarcinoma. In a subgroup analysis of HBV infection and risk of intrhepatic cholangiocarcinoma, the pooled risk estimate of studies in Asians was higher than that in non-Asians. Dr Gong's team concluded, "This meta-analysis shows that HBV is associated with increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma, especially for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma." "Further investigation is needed to focus on the mechanism by which HBV may be involved in the pathogenesis of cholangiocarcinoma."
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