Patterns of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with or without Liver Cirrhosis using Computed Tomography in Tanzania: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

The paradigm in this study is the established understanding of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), its risk factors, diagnostic procedures, and typical presentations. It operates within the medical and oncological fields, relying on established diagnostic criteria, imaging techniques (CT), and statistical analysis.

This research firmly falls within the "Normal Science" stage of Kuhn's paradigm cycle. The study investigates specific patterns of HCC in a Tanzanian population, comparing presentations with and without liver cirrhosis. It seeks to refine the existing understanding of HCC within this specific context, rather than challenging or overturning existing paradigms. The research uses standard methodologies, accepted diagnostic criteria, and established risk factors like Hepatitis B and C. It contributes to the accumulation of knowledge within the existing paradigm by providing data on the prevalence and characteristics of HCC in a particular region. While the authors note some differences compared to other populations, these are presented as variations within the existing paradigm, rather than anomalies challenging its fundamental tenets. The study does not propose any radical new theories or models of HCC.