Signs and Symptoms Of Liver Cancer

• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Upper abdominal pain and swelling
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue and general weakness

Types of Liver Cancer

The main types of liver cancer include:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, originating in the main liver cells (hepatocytes).
• Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Starts in the bile ducts within the liver.
• Hepatoblastoma: A rare type of liver cancer that typically occurs in children.

When to Consult a Doctor

If you notice unexplained weight loss, persistent upper abdominal pain, jaundice, or other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Causes

Liver cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic infection with hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain inherited liver diseases.

Risk Factors Involved in Liver Cancer

• Chronic hepatitis B or C: Long-term infection with hepatitis B or C is a significant risk factor.
• Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver caused by various liver diseases increases the risk.
• Alcohol abuse: Heavy alcohol consumption over time can lead to liver cancer.
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: Linked to obesity and diabetes, this condition increases the risk of liver cancer.
• Exposure to aflatoxins: Toxins produced by molds that can contaminate food supplies, particularly in warm and humid regions.

Liver Cancer Diagnosis

Diagnosis may involve the following methods:

• Blood tests: To detect abnormal liver function or specific tumor markers.
• Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the liver and detect tumors.
• Biopsy: A sample of liver tissue may be taken for analysis to confirm the presence of cancer.

Stages of Liver Cancer

The stages of liver cancer are classified from 0 to 4:

Stage 0: Cancer is confined to a single small tumor in the liver.

Stage 1: A single tumor that hasn't spread to nearby blood vessels.

Stage 2: Cancer has spread to nearby blood vessels or multiple tumors are present.

Stage 3: Cancer has spread to nearby organs or large blood vessels.

Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the lungs or bones.

Treatment Of Liver Cancer

Surgical Intervention

Depending on the stage and extent of liver cancer, treatment options include:

• Partial hepatectomy: Surgical removal of the part of the liver affected by cancer.
• Liver transplant: Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy one from a donor, often the best option for advanced cases.

Localized Treatments

• Radiofrequency ablation: Using heat to destroy cancer cells.
• Chemoembolization: Delivering chemotherapy directly to the liver through the blood supply.

Systemic Treatments

• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy can be used to treat advanced liver cancer by enhancing the body's immune response to cancer cells.

Palliative Care

• Palliative care is essential for managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life in advanced liver cancer.

Prevention

To lower your risk of liver cancer, consider the following:

• Get vaccinated: Vaccination against hepatitis B can significantly reduce the risk of liver cancer.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Limiting alcohol intake helps prevent liver damage.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are linked to liver cancer.
• Regular check-ups: Particularly important for those with a history of liver disease or hepatitis.