Liver Cancer-article-banner

Liver Cancer

Diseases and Conditions Liver Cancer
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
Liver Cancer-image

Overview

Liver cancer, a formidable adversary, stealthily infiltrates the body’s vital organ—the liver. This football-sized powerhouse, nestled in the upper right portion of the abdomen, plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and nutrient storage. When cancerous cells arise within its confines, the consequences can be dire. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of liver cancer, exploring its types, causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and management.

Types of Liver Cancer

  1. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most prevalent form of liver cancer, HCC originates from hepatocytes—the primary liver cells. It often arises in the context of chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis.
  2. Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma (IHC): A rarer variant, IHC develops in the bile ducts within the liver. It poses unique challenges due to its location and behavior.

Causes of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer emerges when mutations occur in liver cell DNA. While some cases remain idiopathic.

Risk Factors of Liver Cancer

several risk factors contribute:

  • Chronic Hepatitis Infections: Long-term infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) significantly elevate the risk.
  • Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver, often stemming from alcohol abuse or viral hepatitis, amplifies susceptibility.
  • Inherited Liver Diseases: Conditions like hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease predispose individuals to liver cancer.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Early-stage liver cancer often conceals its presence, but as it progresses, telltale signs emerge:
1. Unexplained Weight Loss: Liver cancer disrupts normal metabolic processes, leading to unintended weight loss. Tumors in the liver can interfere with nutrient absorption and utilization.
2. Loss of Appetite: Liver cancer affects the liver’s ability to process nutrients and regulate hunger signals. Reduced appetite is common due to altered metabolism.
3. Upper Abdominal Pain: Liver tumors can cause discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Pain may be dull, persistent, or sharp.
4. Nausea and vomiting: Liver cancer impacts digestion and bile production, leading to nausea and occasional vomiting. Bile flow disruption contributes to these symptoms.
5. Fatigue: Liver cancer-induced anemia, toxin accumulation, and metabolic disturbances result in fatigue. Reduced liver function affects energy levels.
6. Yellowing of Skin and Eyes (Jaundice): Jaundice occurs when bilirubin (a waste product) accumulates due to liver dysfunction. Yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes is characteristic.
7. Pale, Chalky Stools: Liver cancer affects bile production, leading to pale or clay-colored stools. Bile pigment is essential for normal stool color.
8. Enlarged Liver: Liver tumors cause liver enlargement (hepatomegaly). The liver may extend below the ribcage and become palpable.

Preventions of Liver Cancer

Mitigating liver cancer risk involves:

  • Moderating Alcohol Consumption
  • Maintaining a Healthy Weight
  • Vaccination Against Hepatitis B
  • Safe Practices to Prevent Hepatitis C Transmission

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

Accurate diagnosis relies on:

  • liver function tests
  • ultrasound
  • CT scans
  • MRI and
  • liver biopsies.

Treatment for Liver Cancer

Options encompass:

  • medications (chemotherapy)
  • procedures (cryoablation
  • radioablation
  • surgery (hepatectomy, liver transplantation)
  • Radiation therapy and
  • targeted therapies are also employed.

When to seek medical attention ?

If any symptoms raise concern, promptly consult a healthcare professional.