Cancer
Liver Cancer
About Liver Cancer
Liver cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that originate in the liver (primary liver cancer) or spread to the liver from other organs (secondary or metastatic liver cancer). These malignant cells can disrupt the liver's vital functions, which include filtering blood, metabolizing nutrients, and producing essential proteins.
Common Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling very full after a small meal
- Nausea or vomiting
- Enlarged liver or spleen (felt as fullness under the right ribs or left ribs)
- Pain in the abdomen or near the right shoulder blade
- Swelling in the abdomen (ascites)
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Itchy skin
- Dark urine
Diagnosis
Diagnosis commonly involves a combination of imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, along with blood tests to check liver function and tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). A definitive diagnosis often requires a liver biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope.
Causes
Primary liver cancer is often linked to chronic liver diseases, such as those caused by hepatitis B or C viral infections, heavy alcohol consumption, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Other risk factors may include certain genetic conditions, exposure to toxins like aflatoxins, and cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) from various causes.
Treatment Overview
Treatment approaches for liver cancer vary widely depending on the type, stage, and extent of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health, and may include surgical removal of the tumor, liver transplantation, or localized treatments like ablation or embolization. Systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are also used, and some individuals explore complementary therapies alongside conventional medical care. The choice of treatment is a decision made in consultation with medical professionals.
Prognosis & Outlook
The prognosis for liver cancer can vary considerably, depending on factors such as the cancer stage at diagnosis, the overall health of the liver, and the individual's response to treatment. Early detection and intervention are generally associated with a more favorable outlook, though advanced cases can pose significant challenges.
Types & Variants
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
The most common type of primary liver cancer, beginning in the main liver cells called hepatocytes.
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
A type of cancer that starts in the cells lining the small bile ducts within the liver.
Hepatoblastoma
A very rare type of liver cancer that typically develops in children under 3 years of age.
Angiosarcoma
A rare and aggressive cancer that begins in the blood vessels of the liver.
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