Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Liver cancer can develop in the liver itself or spread to the liver from other parts of the body, known as metastatic liver cancer. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for liver cancer is essential for effective management and improved outcomes.

Causes of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer can have various causes, including:

• Hepatitis B or C infection: Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C virus can increase the risk of liver cancer.
• Liver Cirrhosis: Chronic liver damage and scarring, often caused by alcohol abuse, hepatitis infection, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, can lead to liver cancer.
• Exposure to aflatoxins: Aflatoxins are toxins produced by certain molds that can contaminate food, particularly grains and nuts stored in warm, humid conditions.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This condition, characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, can progress to liver cancer in some cases.
• Hereditary factors: Genetic conditions such as hemochromatosis and Wilson's disease can increase the risk of liver cancer.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

The signs and symptoms of liver cancer may include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Enlarged liver or palpable mass in the abdomen

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

Diagnosing liver cancer typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, including:

• Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the liver and detect abnormalities
• Blood tests to evaluate liver function and detect tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
• Liver biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for laboratory analysis and confirm the presence of cancer cells

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

Treatment for liver cancer depends on various factors, including the stage, size, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor or part of the liver (resection), liver transplant, or ablative therapies such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation
• Locoregional therapies such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or radioembolization (TARE)
• Systemic therapies including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or combination therapies
• Palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with advanced liver cancer