Which cancer is associated with both Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B viruses?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Hepatocellular carcinoma is strongly associated with both Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B viruses. These viruses lead to chronic liver inflammation, which can result in cirrhosis, and both are established risk factors for the development of liver cancer. The oncogenic potential of these viruses is related to their ability to cause chronic liver damage and mutation over time. Hepatitis B, in particular, can integrate its viral DNA into the host genome, promoting oncogenesis.

In the context of hepatitis-related liver disease, the progression to hepatocellular carcinoma typically occurs after decades of chronic infection and inflammation, which can lead to the accumulation of malignancy-promoting mutations and changes in the liver microenvironment.

While other cancers can have viral associations, hepatocellular carcinoma is uniquely and directly linked to the effects of chronic hepatitis infections, making it the correct answer in this scenario.

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