Liver Cancer
Liver cancer begins in the cells of the liver, the body’s vital organ responsible for detoxification, digestion, and nutrient storage. It is most common in individuals with long-term liver diseases.
Types
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): Most common type.
- Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer in bile ducts.
- Angiosarcoma: Rare, aggressive cancer of blood vessels in the liver.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent abdominal pain (right upper side)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin & eyes)
- Swelling in abdomen (ascites)
- Nausea or vomiting
Risk Factors
- Hepatitis B or C infection
- Liver cirrhosis
- Alcohol overuse
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Obesity and diabetes
- Family history of liver cancer
- Exposure to aflatoxins
Diagnosis
- Blood tests (including AFP)
- Ultrasound
- CT/MRI scan
- Liver biopsy
Treatment Options
- Surgery to remove tumors
- Liver transplantation
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE)
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
