Early Recurrence of Hepatoma: PCNA Labeling Index and DNA Ploidy Pattern Sixty-four cases of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatectomy were divided into two groups; E-group with recurrence within one year, and L-group with recurrence after 1 year. Clinicopathological features and surgical curability were the same in both groups. E-group had significantly higher positive rates of portal invasion, intrahepatic metastasis and rate of patients with more than 40% on PCNA labeling index. While the similar recurrence mode and the same treatment modalities were done, cumulative survival rates after recurrence in E-group had a poorer prognosis than L-group. These results suggest the possibility of lower response for the treatment on the recurrent lesion would be manifest in the E-group. New modalities for prevention of early recurrence of HCC after resection should be developed.