Liver Cancer
Overview
What is the Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer or hepatic cancer happens when the liver cells or hepatocytes start growing uncontrollably. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent type of liver cancer. Liver cancers could either start in the liver or they can spread from other parts to the liver.
Epidemiology
Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers in Pakistan, and they are more prevalent among men than women. According to cancer experts, the common risk factors associated with liver cancer include increased alcohol consumption, unsafe sex practices and sharing injection needles.
Causes
The actual cause of liver cancer is unknown; however, researchers have identified a few risk factors that are associated with liver cancer:
Chronic Hepatitis B and C Infection: Chronic hepatitis B and C infection are found to be one of the biggest risk factors for liver cancer. Chronic or Inherited Liver Disorders: Chronic liver disorders, such as cirrhosis or those that have been inherited (e.g. hemochromatosis) increase the risk of liver cancers.
Diagnosis
Liver Cancer Screening: Those with Hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol-related cirrhosis, other alcohol abusers, and those who have cirrhosis as a result of hemochromatosis are all considered as high-risk individuals.
If liver cancer is suspected during the screening, following additional tests may be used to diagnosis.
a. Blood test: Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a chemical secreted by liver tumors.
b. Imaging Tests: Ultrasound imaging is commonly recommended since it can identify tumors as small as one millimeter.
c. Biopsy: A tissue sample from the suspected area is collected and analyzed under a microscope during a biopsy.
Treatment
The treatment planning for liver cancer patients is made upon considering multiple factors, such as the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences, as well as the stage of the disease, tumor size, exact location of the tumor and tumor grade. The following are the treatment options available for liver cancer management:
