The liver is an important organ of the body that plays a crucial role in digestion, detoxification, and metabolism. It filters and processes blood as it flows through the body. Liver cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the liver.

It is important to recognize the symptoms of liver cancer early to increase the chances of successful treatment.

What is Liver Cancer?

Liver cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably, eventually forming a tumor in the liver. The liver has many different types of cells, which can develop into several types of liver cancer.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which begins in the main type of liver cell, accounts for about 75% of all liver cancers. Other types include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, which develops in the liver’s bile ducts, and hepatoblastoma, which affects young children.

Causes of Liver Cancer

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing liver cancer:.

Hepatitis B or C infection
Alcohol consumption
Cirrhosis of the liver
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Obesity
Diabetes
Exposure to aflatoxins
Hemochromatosis (iron buildup in the liver)

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

In the early stages of liver cancer, there may not be any noticeable symptoms. As the tumor grows larger or spreads to other organs, symptoms can become more apparent. The most common symptoms of liver cancer include:.

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Enlarged liver or spleen
Itchy skin

Diagnosing Liver Cancer

If liver cancer is suspected, a doctor may order several tests to confirm the diagnosis:.

Blood tests to check liver function and screen for liver cancer markers
Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT or MRI scan, or a PET scan to look for abnormalities in the liver
A biopsy, in which a small piece of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells

Treatment for Liver Cancer

The treatment for liver cancer depends on various factors such as the type and stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the size and location of the tumor.

Surgery: This is the most common treatment option for liver cancer. The surgeon removes the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue.
Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given orally or intravenously.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is most commonly used to relieve pain or discomfort caused by the tumor.
Liver Transplantation: If the tumor is small and hasn’t spread outside the liver, a liver transplant may be an option.

Preventing Liver Cancer

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent liver cancer, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Get vaccinated for hepatitis B
Use protection during sex
Avoid sharing needles
Drink alcohol in moderation
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a healthy diet
Exercise regularly
Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals
Get screened for liver cancer if you are at high risk

Conclusion

Liver cancer is a serious disease that can be fatal if not caught and treated early. Knowing the risk factors and symptoms of liver cancer can help you get the treatment you need as soon as possible.

By making healthy lifestyle choices and getting screened regularly for liver cancer if you are at high risk, you can reduce your chances of developing the disease.