What is Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer refers to the growth of malignant cells in the liver, one of the largest and most vital organs in the body. The liver performs essential functions like detoxifying the blood, producing bile for digestion, and storing nutrients. Liver cancer can be classified into several types, with the most common being:
Primary Liver Cancer
This type starts in the liver itself. Common forms include:
1. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, originating from hepatocytes (the primary liver cells). It is often linked to chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis B or C and cirrhosis.
2. Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer): Originates in the bile ducts inside or outside the liver.
3. Angiosarcoma and Hemangiosarcoma: Rare cancers that begin in the blood vessels of the liver.
4. Hepatoblastoma: A rare type of liver cancer that primarily affects children.
Secondary Liver Cancer (Metastatic):
This occurs when cancer from another part of the body, such as the colon, pancreas, or breast, spreads to the liver. Secondary liver cancer is more common than primary liver cancer.
Risk Factors
• Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C virus.
• Cirrhosis, often caused by long-term alcohol abuse or fatty liver disease.
• Exposure to toxins like aflatoxins (from moldy grains and nuts).
• Genetic disorders such as hemochromatosis.
• Obesity and related conditions, like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Symptoms
Early stages may not show any symptoms, but as the disease progresses, it may include:
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Loss of appetite.
• Abdominal pain or swelling.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Nausea or vomiting.
Diagnosis
Liver cancer is diagnosed through:
• Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans.
• Blood tests, including alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels.
• Liver biopsy for histological examination.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cancer's type, size, stage, and the patient’s overall health:
1. Surgical Options: Resection (removing part of the liver) or liver transplant.
2. Ablative Techniques: Radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation to destroy cancer cells.
3. Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific pathways in cancer cells, like sorafenib.
4. Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer cells.
5. Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
6. Chemotherapy: Systemic or localized delivery of cancer-killing drugs.
Prevention
• Vaccination against hepatitis B.
• Avoiding risky behaviors like unsafe needle use.
• Regular screenings for high-risk individuals.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and diet.
Early detection and management are crucial for improving outcomes in liver cancer patients.