Liver Cancer

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also known as Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), is a malignant tumor that originates in the liver. It is one of the most common and aggressive cancers worldwide, often developing in people with chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or viral hepatitis. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improving survival rates.

Causes and Risk Factors of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer typically develops due to long-term liver damage and chronic inflammation. The major risk factors include:

1. Chronic Liver Diseases

• Cirrhosis – The biggest risk factor; caused by scarring from chronic liver damage.

• Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Infections – Long-term infections increase the risk of liver cancer.

2. Lifestyle-Related Factors

• Chronic Alcohol Consumption – Leads to cirrhosis and liver cell damage.

• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) – Excess fat accumulation in the liver.

• Obesity and Diabetes – Associated with fatty liver and increased cancer risk.

3. Toxin Exposure

• Aflatoxins – Fungal toxins found in contaminated grains and nuts.

• Industrial Chemicals and Pesticides – Long-term exposure may contribute to liver cancer.

4. Genetic and Autoimmune Conditions

• Hemochromatosis (Iron Overload Disorder).

• Wilson’s Disease (Excess Copper in the Liver).

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer symptoms often appear in advanced stages and may include:

• Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.

• Persistent fatigue and weakness.

• Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort.

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes).

• Dark urine and pale stools.

• Swollen abdomen due to ascites (fluid accumulation).

• Nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues.

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

• Blood Tests (AFP Test) – Measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a tumor marker for liver cancer.

• Ultrasound, CT Scan, or MRI – Detects liver tumors and their size.

• Liver Biopsy – Confirms the presence of cancer cells.

• FibroScan – Assesses liver stiffness and cirrhosis severity.

Treatment for Liver Cancer

Treatment options depend on the stage of cancer, liver function, and overall health.

1. Surgery (Curative Treatment for Early Stages)

• Liver Resection (Partial Hepatectomy) – Removal of the tumor if liver function is good.

• Liver Transplant – Replaces the diseased liver with a healthy one; best option for cirrhotic patients with small tumors.

2. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

• Targeted Drugs (Sorafenib, Lenvatinib, Regorafenib) – Slows tumor growth.

• Immunotherapy (Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab) – Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.

3. Non-Surgical Treatments (For Advanced Stages)

• Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) – Delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumor.

• Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE) – Uses radioactive beads to shrink tumors.

• Ablative Therapy (Radiofrequency or Microwave Ablation) – Destroys cancer cells using heat.

Prevention of Liver Cancer

• Get Vaccinated Against Hepatitis B.

• Early Treatment of Hepatitis C to Prevent Cirrhosis.

• Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight and Manage Diabetes.

• Avoid Exposure to Aflatoxins (Store Grains and Nuts Properly).

Prognosis of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer prognosis depends on early detection and treatment options. Localized tumors have a better survival rate, while advanced-stage liver cancer has limited treatment success. Regular screening for high-risk individuals (e.g., cirrhosis patients) can help detect liver cancer early and improve outcomes.

Liver cancer is a serious condition, but early detection and proper medical intervention can improve survival and quality of life.