Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of liver cancer that originates from the hepatocytes, the main type of liver cell. It is the most common type of liver cancer, accounting for about 75% of cases worldwide.

HCC can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol abuse, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Causes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing HCC. Some of the most common causes of hepatocellular carcinoma include:.

Hepatitis B and C

Chronic hepatitis B and C infections are major risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma. The inflammation caused by these infections can lead to the development of liver cirrhosis, which increases the risk of liver cancer.

Hepatitis B and C are the leading causes of HCC in Asia and Africa.

Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse is another major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic alcohol consumption can damage the liver and increase the risk of liver cirrhosis, which is a major risk factor for liver cancer.

Men who consume three or more alcoholic drinks per day and women who consume two or more alcoholic drinks per day are at higher risk of developing HCC.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition that occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. This can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, which increases the risk of liver cancer.

NAFLD is becoming an increasingly common cause of HCC in Western countries, particularly in people who are overweight or have type 2 diabetes.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a condition that occurs when the liver becomes damaged and scarred, usually as the result of chronic inflammation or injury. Cirrhosis is a major risk factor for HCC, accounting for up to 80% of cases worldwide.

Common causes of cirrhosis include chronic hepatitis B and C, alcohol abuse, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Symptoms of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

In the early stages, hepatocellular carcinoma may not cause any symptoms. As the cancer grows, however, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:.

Abdominal Pain or Swelling

HCC can cause pain or swelling in the upper abdomen, particularly on the right side. This is caused by the increased size of the liver and the pressure that the tumor puts on surrounding organs.

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

HCC can cause a loss of appetite and a significant weight loss, which may be attributed to digestive problems or the body’s response to cancer.

Fatigue

HCC can cause fatigue and weakness as the body tries to fight off the cancer and maintain normal liver function.

Nausea or Vomiting

HCC can cause nausea or vomiting, particularly if the tumor is blocking the bile ducts or causing other digestive problems.

Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes

HCC can cause jaundice, a condition that leads to yellowing of the skin and eyes. This is caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a waste product that is normally filtered out by the liver.

Treatment Options for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

There are several treatment options available for hepatocellular carcinoma, including:.

Surgery

Surgical removal of the tumor is the most effective treatment for HCC, particularly if the cancer is detected early. However, surgery may not be an option if the tumor is too large or if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy drugs can be used to shrink the tumor and slow the growth of cancer cells. However, chemotherapy can have significant side effects and may not be effective in all cases of HCC.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used to destroy small tumors or to help shrink larger tumors before surgery.

Liver Transplantation

In some cases, liver transplantation may be the best option for treating HCC. This is particularly true in cases where the tumor is too large to be surgically removed or if the cancer has spread too far to be effectively treated with other methods.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy drugs can be used to treat HCC by attacking specific molecules that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. These drugs can be effective in some cases, but they can also have significant side effects.

Prevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

There are several steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing HCC, including:.

Vaccination

Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B can greatly reduce the risk of developing HCC.

The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all infants and children, as well as at-risk adults such as healthcare workers and people who have unprotected sex with multiple partners.

Limiting Alcohol Consumption

Limiting alcohol consumption can help prevent the development of liver cirrhosis, which is a major risk factor for HCC.

Men should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day, and women should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which is becoming an increasingly common cause of HCC. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight.

Getting Regular Hepatitis B and C Screenings

Getting regular hepatitis B and C screenings can help detect these infections early, when they are more easily treatable. If you are at risk for these infections, talk to your doctor about getting screened.

Conclusion

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a serious form of liver cancer that can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Early detection and treatment are key to successfully treating HCC. By taking steps to prevent these risk factors and getting regular screenings, you can reduce your risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma.