Liver Cancer – Overview

What is Liver Cancer?

Liver cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the liver, an essential organ responsible for detoxification, digestion, and metabolism. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which originates from the liver’s main cells, called hepatocytes. Other types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and hepatoblastoma (a rare childhood liver cancer).

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

In the early stages, liver cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, common signs include:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Persistent abdominal pain or swelling
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • White, chalky stools
  • A lump or mass in the upper right abdomen

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing liver cancer:

  • Chronic Hepatitis B or C Infections: These viruses can cause long-term liver damage and increase the risk of liver cancer.
  • Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver from conditions like alcoholism or hepatitis can lead to cancer.
  • Fatty Liver Disease: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can contribute to liver damage.
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Long-term alcohol abuse can cause liver cirrhosis, leading to cancer.
  • Aflatoxin Exposure: Aflatoxins are harmful substances produced by molds in contaminated food.
  • Diabetes & Obesity: These conditions are linked to fatty liver disease, a risk factor for liver cancer.
  • Genetic Disorders: Conditions like hemochromatosis (excess iron storage in the liver) increase cancer risk.

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

To diagnose liver cancer, doctors may use the following tests:

  • Blood Tests: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test helps detect liver cancer.
  • Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound help visualize liver tumors.
  • Liver Biopsy: A sample of liver tissue is taken for laboratory analysis.
  • Liver Function Tests: Assess liver health and detect abnormalities.

Stages of Liver Cancer

  • Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the liver with no spread.
  • Stage 2: Cancer has grown into blood vessels or multiple small tumors exist.
  • Stage 3: Large tumors or cancer has spread to major blood vessels or lymph nodes.
  • Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other organs such as the lungs or bones.

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

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

  1. Surgery

    • Liver Resection (Partial Hepatectomy): Removes the affected part of the liver if cancer is localized.
    • Liver Transplantation: In cases where the entire liver is affected, a liver transplant may be an option.

  2. Ablative Therapies (For patients who cannot undergo surgery)

    • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to destroy cancer cells.
    • Microwave Ablation (MWA): Uses microwaves to kill tumors.
    • Cryoablation: Freezes cancer cells.

  3. Targeted Therapy

    • Uses drugs that attack specific cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

  4. Immunotherapy

    • Helps boost the body’s immune system to fight liver cancer.

  5. Radiation Therapy

    • External beam radiation or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is used in select cases.

  6. Chemotherapy

    • Generally less effective for liver cancer but may be used in combination with other treatments.

  7. Transarterial Therapies (For advanced liver cancer)

    • Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): Delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver tumor.
    • Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE): Uses radioactive beads to target tumors.

Life After Liver Cancer Treatment

  • Regular Monitoring: Follow-up tests ensure cancer does not return.
  • Dietary & Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet and avoiding alcohol improve liver health.
  • Emotional & Psychological Support: Counseling and support groups help patients cope.

Why Choose Delhi Cancer Centre for Liver Cancer Treatment?

  • Expert Liver Cancer Specialists: Experienced oncologists with advanced treatment options.
  • Comprehensive Diagnostic Facilities: State-of-the-art imaging and laboratory tests.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored care based on the patient’s stage and overall health.
  • Advanced Surgical & Non-Surgical Treatments: Liver transplant options and cutting-edge therapies.
  • Holistic Care & Support: Post-treatment recovery, diet counseling, and emotional well-being services.

Early detection and expert care can improve survival rates. If you or a loved one has symptoms of liver cancer, book an appointment at Delhi Cancer Centre today.

Liver Cancer