Liver cancer is a particularly dangerous form of cancer that arises in the liver. It is a condition that originates when healthy cells in the liver begin to mutate and grow out of control, forming cancerous tumors.

Liver cancer is one of the most common types of cancer globally, and it is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Therefore, it is essential to detect the disease early to improve the prospects for a complete cure.

Causes of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a complex disease that can have many different causes. However, certain risk factors can significantly increase the odds of liver cancer, including:.

Hepatitis B or C: Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C can lead to cirrhosis, which dramatically increases the risk of liver cancer.
Cirrhosis: Significant alcohol consumption or other chronic liver diseases can lead to cirrhosis, which can, in turn, lead to liver cancer.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): When the liver accumulates too much fat deposition, it can lead to cirrhosis and, ultimately, liver cancer.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop liver cancer than women.
Age: Liver cancer is more common in individuals over the age of 50.
Race: Liver cancer is more common in African Americans, Asians, and Pacific Islanders.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer

The early stages of liver cancer may not produce any noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect. The symptoms of liver cancer may vary from person to person, but the following symptoms are the most common:.

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Abdominal pain: Pain in the upper right portion of the abdomen is one of the most common symptoms of liver cancer. The pain may also radiate to the back and shoulder.
Unexplained weight loss: If you lose weight without trying, it may a sign of liver cancer.
Loss of appetite: If you feel full after eating a small meal or if you have no desire for food, it may a sign of liver cancer.
Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and vomiting is a common symptom of advanced-stage liver cancer.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes: Jaundice, a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes, can be a sign of liver cancer.
Fever and fatigue: Advanced-stage liver cancer can cause fever and fatigue, which can cause weakness and a feeling of being unwell.
Bloating and swelling: Advanced-stage liver cancer can also cause swelling in the abdomen, arms, and legs.
Bruising and bleeding: Liver cancer can cause a decrease in blood clotting factors, which can lead to bruising and bleeding.

Diagnosing Liver Cancer

If your doctor suspects liver cancer, they will perform a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the cancer. These tests may include:.

Blood tests: Blood tests can help your doctor evaluate your liver function and diagnose liver cancer.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans can help your doctor determine the size and location of tumors in the liver.
Liver biopsy: In a liver biopsy, a small sample of liver tissue is taken and analyzed under a microscope for cancer cells.

Treatment of Liver Cancer

The treatment of liver cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, your overall health, and other factors. There are several treatment options for liver cancer, including:.

Surgery: Surgery to remove the cancerous tumors from the liver is the most common treatment for liver cancer.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and is often used in combination with surgery to treat liver cancer.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is rarely used as the only treatment for liver cancer but may be used in combination with surgery.
Liver transplant: A liver transplant may be an option for some patients with liver cancer. However, it is often reserved for those with early-stage liver cancer and no other conditions affecting liver function.