Liver cancer happens when normal cells within the liver turn into abnormal cells and grow out of control. The liver is a huge organ within the upper right side of the belly.
Most people who get cancer of the liver have long-term disease (also known as chronic liver disease). Having long-term liver disease will increase an individual’s possibilities of getting liver cancer. the most common and most serious kind of long-term liver disease is a condition known as “cirrhosis,” that scars the liver.
Liver cancer doesn’t typically cause any symptoms of its own. some patients might have a lump or mild pain within the upper belly, feel full too soon after they try to eat, or reduce weight.Others might have symptoms that are caused by the liver disease that they had before they got cancer. Those symptoms can intensify or return due to the cancer. They include:
If you’ve got these symptoms, tell your doctor.
Yes. If your doctor suspects you’ve got liver cancer, he or she will do one or more of the subsequent tests:
After treatment, you’ll be checked every so often to ascertain if the cancer comes back. Regular follow up tests sometimes include exams, blood tests, and imaging tests.
You should also notice the symptoms listed above. Having those symptoms might mean the cancer has returned. Tell your doctor if you’ve got any symptoms.
If you had a liver transplant, you’ll have to be compelled to take medicines known as “anti-rejection medicines” for the rest of your life. These medicines help to keep your body from reacting badly to your new liver.
If the cancer comes back or spreads, your doctor will talk with you regarding possible treatment choices. These may include the treatments listed above.
It is necessary to follow all of your doctor’s directions concerning visits and tests. it is also necessary to speak to your doctor concerning any side effects or issues you’ve got throughout treatment. those that have liver disease, particularly if they have long-term disease, ought to avoid alcohol and any medicine that could be harmful to the liver.
Getting treated for liver disease involves making several decisions, like what treatment to have.
Always let your doctors know how you are feeling about a treatment. Any time you’re offered a treatment, ask:
The liver is one of the most important organs in our body, responsible for regulating vital functions such as digestion and metabolism. Unfortunately, it is also a common site for cancerous growths to develop. Liver cancer can be a daunting diagnosis, but with knowledge and understanding, we can better navigate this disease. In this blog post, we will delve into the basics of liver cancer – from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and prevention measures – so that you have all the information you need to stay informed about this serious illness. Join us as we explore what you need to know about liver cancer!
Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the liver, leading to the formation of tumors. It is a type of cancer that originates in the liver or spreads to the liver from other parts of the body. The most common form of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for the majority of cases.
There are many types of liver cancer including:
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): This is the most common primary liver cancer, originating from liver cells. It is often associated with underlying liver diseases such as hepatitis B or C infection, cirrhosis, or alcohol-related liver damage.
Cholangiocarcinoma: This is a malignant tumor that develops from the bile ducts inside or outside the liver. It can occur in different parts of the bile ducts, leading to different subtypes of cholangiocarcinoma.
Hepatoblastoma: This is a rare malignant tumor that primarily affects children. It arises from immature liver cells and is typically diagnosed in early childhood.
Angiosarcoma: This is a rare and aggressive type of liver cancer that develops from the blood vessels of the liver.
Metastatic Liver Tumors: These tumors originate from cancers in other parts of the body and spread (metastasize) to the liver. Common primary cancer sites that can metastasize to the liver include the colon, breast, lung, and pancreas.
Liver cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, and early detection is critical to improve chances of survival. There are several screening tests that can be used to detect liver cancer, including blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsies.
Blood tests are often the first step in liver cancer screening. They can help doctors check for signs of liver damage or disease. Imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or CT scans, can be used to create pictures of the liver. Biopsies involve taking a small sample of tissue from the liver for analysis.
Screening for liver cancer is important for people who are at high risk for the disease. Risk factors include heavy alcohol use, hepatitis B or C infection, and a family history of liver cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about whether liver cancer screening is right for you.
