Liver Cancer: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Definition
Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the liver. It can begin in the liver cells (primary liver cancer) or spread to the liver from another organ (secondary liver cancer, or metastatic cancer).
2. Types
There are several types of liver cancer:
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most common type of primary liver cancer, starts in the main type of liver cell, hepatocytes.
- Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer that starts in the bile ducts within the liver.
- Hepatoblastoma: Rare type of liver cancer that usually affects children under the age of 4.
- Angiosarcoma and Hemangiosarcoma: Rare cancers that start in the blood vessels of the liver.
3. Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of liver cancer is not known, but several factors can increase the risk:
- Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C viruses
- Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), often caused by alcohol abuse or hepatitis
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins produced by molds that grow on improperly stored grains and nuts)
- Family history of liver cancer
- Smoking
- Obesity and diabetes
- Excessive alcohol consumption
4. Pathophysiology
Liver cancer begins when normal liver cells develop changes (mutations) in their DNA. These mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Liver cancer can spread to other parts of the body.
5. Symptoms
Symptoms of liver cancer may include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Enlarged liver or spleen
- Pale, chalky stools
6. Diagnosis
Diagnosing liver cancer usually involves:
- Imaging tests: CT scan, MRI, ultrasound to visualize the liver and detect tumors.
- Biopsy: Removal of a tissue sample for examination under a microscope to confirm cancer.
- Blood tests: Liver function tests, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, and other markers that may be elevated in liver cancer.
7. Management & Treatment
Treatment options depend on the stage and type of liver cancer, and the patient's overall health:
- Surgery: Removal of the tumor and affected tissue, potentially followed by liver transplantation.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, often used in combination with other treatments.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that attack specific abnormalities within cancer cells.
- Radioembolization: A procedure that delivers radiation directly to the tumor.
- Ablation Therapy: Techniques such as radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation to destroy the tumor.
8. Transmission
Liver cancer is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
9. Complications
Complications of liver cancer and its treatment can include:
- Liver failure
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen)
- Malnutrition
- Metastasis (spread to other organs)
10. Prevention
Reducing risk factors can help prevent liver cancer:
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Practice safe sex
- Avoid sharing needles
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage hepatitis and cirrhosis
- Avoid exposure to aflatoxins
11. FAQs
Can liver cancer be cured?
Early-stage liver cancer may be curable with surgery or other treatments. However, most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, making it more difficult to cure.
What are the early signs of liver cancer?
Early signs may include jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Is liver cancer hereditary?
While most liver cancers are not inherited, some genetic conditions can increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
How is liver cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests, blood tests, and a biopsy to confirm cancer.