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Liver Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Liver Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

By Medical Expert Team

Dec 08 , 2023 | 2 min read

Liver cancer, also called hepatic cancer, is a serious condition that affects the liver—the largest internal organ in the human body. Understanding liver cancer, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Types and Causes of Liver Cancer:

Liver cancer can be classified into two main types: primary and secondary liver cancer. Primary liver cancer, like hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), originates in the liver. Secondary liver cancer is known as metastatic liver cancer and occurs when cancer cells from other parts of the body spread to the liver. The leading causes of primary liver cancer include:

Chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C).
Excessive alcohol consumption.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Cirrhosis.
Exposure to certain toxins.
Genetic factors.

Liver Cancer Common Symptoms and Risk Factors:

Liver cancer often presents with symptoms in the advanced stages. These may include unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain or swelling, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), loss of appetite, nausea, and changes in bowel movements. It is essential to be aware of these symptoms, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those with chronic liver disease, a family history of liver cancer, or a history of hepatitis infection.

Liver Cancer Diagnosis and Staging:

Diagnosing liver cancer involves a series of tests and procedures. These may include blood tests to assess liver function and detect tumour markers, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the liver and identify any abnormalities, and a liver biopsy to obtain tissue samples for further examination. Staging liver cancer helps determine the extent of the disease and guides treatment decisions. Staging may involve imaging studies, such as PET scans, and sometimes surgical exploration to assess the tumour's spread.

Liver Cancer Treatment Options:

The treatment of liver cancer depends on factors like the stage of cancer, the individual's overall health, and the underlying liver condition. Treatment options may include surgical interventions, such as liver resection (partial removal of the liver) or liver transplantation, ablative therapies (using heat or cold to destroy cancer cells), radiation therapy, targeted therapy (using drugs that target specific cancer cells), chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The treatment plan is tailored to each patient's unique circumstances and may involve a combination of these approaches.

Prevention and Lifestyle Choices:

While not all cases of liver cancer can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk. These include:

Vaccination: Vaccination against hepatitis B can significantly reduce the risk of developing liver cancer.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to liver damage and increase the risk of liver cancer. Moderation or abstinence is advisable.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are usually associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. Maintaining an appropriate weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce this risk.
Safe Practices: Practicing safe sex and avoiding needle-sharing can prevent hepatitis B and C infections, which are significant risk factors for liver cancer.

Conclusion:

Liver cancer is a complex and challenging disease, but with increased awareness, early detection, and advances in treatment options, there is hope for improved outcomes. Recognizing the risk factors, understanding the symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention can make a significant difference. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and following preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of liver cancer and promote overall liver health. Remember, knowledge and proactive measures are essential in the fight against liver cancer.