Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. It is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Liver cancer can also arise from cancerous cells that have spread (metastasized) to the liver from other parts of the body, known as secondary liver cancer or metastatic liver cancer.
Types of Liver Cancer: The majority of liver cancers are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which develops from hepatocytes, the main type of liver cell. Less common types of liver cancer include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), which originates in the bile ducts within the liver, and hepatoblastoma (primarily affecting children).
Risk Factors: Several factors may increase the risk of developing liver cancer, including chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver tissue), excessive alcohol consumption, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), obesity, exposure to aflatoxins (toxins produced by certain molds that can contaminate food), diabetes, smoking, older age, male gender, family history of liver cancer, and certain genetic conditions (such as hemochromatosis or alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency).
Symptoms: Liver cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages, and symptoms may not appear until the cancer is advanced. Common symptoms may include abdominal pain or discomfort (particularly in the upper right side), unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, feeling of fullness after eating small amounts, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, enlarged liver or spleen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites). However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation if they persist or worsen.
Diagnosis: Liver cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods, including medical history and physical examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), blood tests (such as alpha-fetoprotein level), and biopsy (removal and examination of a sample of liver tissue). The biopsy helps confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of the cancer.
Treatment: Treatment for liver cancer depends on factors such as the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include surgery (such as liver resection or liver transplant), ablation therapy (such as radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation), embolization therapy (such as transarterial chemoembolization or radioembolization), chemotherapy, targeted therapy (such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors), immunotherapy, and supportive care measures (such as pain management and nutritional support). Treatment may be used alone or in combination, and it may be tailored to each person’s specific situation.
Prognosis: The prognosis for liver cancer varies depending on factors such as the type, stage, and grade of the cancer, the individual’s age and overall health, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Liver cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which can affect survival rates. However, advances in treatment and supportive care have led to improvements in outcomes for some individuals with liver cancer.