Types of Liver Cancer and Their Treatment
By Medical Expert Team
Apr 24 , 2023 | 2 min read
Liver cancer is a significant global health concern, with varying types and treatment options depending on the diagnosis and progression. Understanding the types of liver cancer and their respective treatments can guide patients and caregivers in making informed decisions.
Primary Types of Liver Cancer
1. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, primarily affecting individuals with liver damage due to:
- Birth defects
- Alcohol abuse
- Chronic infections: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C
- Hemochromatosis: A hereditary condition involving excess iron in the liver
- Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
- Cirrhosis
Key Statistics:
- In India, the male-to-female ratio for HCC is 4:1.
- The typical age of presentation ranges from 40 to 70 years.
Risk Factors for HCC:
- Chronic liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity and diabetes
- Family history of liver cancer
Symptoms of HCC:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain (particularly in the upper right side)
- Unintended weight loss
- Enlarged liver or abdomen (hepatomegaly)
- Fatigue, nausea, vomiting
- General itching, fever
Diagnosis of HCC:
- Physical examination: Checks for swelling, jaundice, and liver abnormalities
- Laboratory tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing (tumor marker)
- Imaging studies:
- Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI of the abdomen
- Biopsy (if required): Confirms cancer diagnosis
Treatment Options for HCC:
- Surgical Resection: Removes the diseased liver portion
- Liver Transplantation: Suitable for advanced cases
- Loco-regional Ablative Techniques:
- Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
- Microwave Ablation (MWA)
- Chemotherapy/Targeted Therapy: For unresectable or metastatic cases
2. Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer)
Cholangiocarcinoma originates in the bile ducts connecting the liver to the gallbladder and intestines.
Types of Cholangiocarcinoma:
- Intrahepatic: Occurs within the liver
- Hilar (Perihilar): Located at the bile duct junction
- Distal: Found near the small intestine
Symptoms of Cholangiocarcinoma:
- Persistent jaundice
- Upper abdominal pain
- Pale stools and dark urine
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Diagnosis of Cholangiocarcinoma:
- Blood tests:
- Liver and kidney function tests (LFT, RFT)
- Tumor markers: CEA, CA19-9
- Imaging tests:
- MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)
- PET scans for metastasis detection
- Biopsy: CT-guided for confirmation
Treatment Options:
- Surgical Resection: For localized tumors
- Chemotherapy/Radiotherapy: For advanced stages
- Ablative Techniques: TACE or Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE)
- Palliative Care: For terminal-stage patients, focusing on symptom relief
Secondary Liver Cancer (Metastatic Liver Cancer)
Secondary liver cancer arises when cancer from other organs spreads to the liver. Common primary sites include:
- Colon
- Stomach
- Lungs
- Pancreas
Symptoms:
- Jaundice
- Abdominal swelling
- Weight loss
- Persistent fatigue
Diagnosis:
- Blood investigations: CBC, LFT, CA19-9, CEA
- Imaging: Triphasic CT scan, MRI, whole-body PET scan
Treatment Options:
- Surgical Resection: For resectable metastases
- Ablative Techniques: RFA, MWA, TACE
- Chemotherapy: Reduces tumor size and relieves symptoms
- Targeted Therapy: Controls metastases growth
Preventing Liver Cancer
- Vaccination against Hepatitis B
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing underlying conditions like diabetes or hepatitis
Read more about - Liver Cancer Symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are The Main Types of Liver Cancer?
Primary liver cancer: HCC and cholangiocarcinoma
Secondary liver cancer: Cancer spreading to the liver from other organs
2. How Can Liver Cancer be Prevented?
Avoid alcohol abuse, manage hepatitis infections, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3. What are Common Symptoms of Liver Cancer?
Jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and an enlarged liver.
4. What is The Prognosis for Liver Cancer?
Prognosis depends on the cancer stage, treatment plan, and overall health.
5. Can Liver Cancer Recur After Treatment?
Yes, regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor for recurrence.
6. Who Manages Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer is managed by a team of specialists, including hepatologists, oncologists, and surgeons, who work together to create a treatment plan.
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