What is Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the liver begin to multiply uncontrollably. The liver, an essential organ for detoxification and protein synthesis, can develop two main types of cancer:
-
Primary liver cancer: Originates in the liver
-
Secondary liver cancer: Spreads to the liver from elsewhere
Types of Liver Cancer
Primary Liver Cancer
-
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
- Most common type (80-90% of cases)
- Usually develops in cirrhotic livers
- More common in men
-
Cholangiocarcinoma
- Develops in bile ducts
- Less common but more aggressive
Risk Factors
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
- Cirrhosis
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Exposure to aflatoxins
Symptoms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- General weakness and fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- White, chalky stools
Diagnosis
Common Diagnostic Tools
- Blood tests (AFP levels)
- Imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI)
- Liver biopsy
- Staging scans
Treatment Options
-
Surgery
- Partial hepatectomy
- Liver transplantation
-
Non-surgical Treatments
- Ablation therapy
- Embolization
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
Prevention
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Maintain healthy weight
- Regular medical check-ups
- Practice safe sex
- Don't share needles
Prognosis and Survival
Prognosis depends on:
- Cancer stage at diagnosis
- Liver function
- Overall health status
- Treatment response
Support and Resources
- Join support groups
- Seek counseling if needed
- Maintain regular communication with healthcare team
- Consider lifestyle modifications
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Unexpected weight loss
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Unusual fatigue