Liver cancer

 Liver cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the liver, an essential organ located in the upper right portion of the abdomen. It plays a crucial role in filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile for digestion, and storing nutrients. Liver cancer can be primary (starting in the liver) or secondary (spreading to the liver from other organs).

Types of Liver Cancer:

  1. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, accounting for about 75% of all liver cancers. It starts in the main liver cells called hepatocytes.
  2. Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Also known as bile duct cancer, this type begins in the small bile ducts within the liver.
  3. Angiosarcoma: A rare form that starts in the blood vessels of the liver.
  4. Hepatoblastoma: A rare type that usually affects children under the age of 3.

Symptoms:


  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • General weakness and fatigue
  • An enlarged liver (hepatomegaly) or a lump under the ribs on the right side
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • White, chalky stools

Causes and Risk Factors:

  • Chronic Hepatitis B or C infection: Major risk factors due to long-term liver damage.
  • Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver, often due to alcohol abuse or hepatitis, increases the risk.
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Associated with obesity and diabetes.
  • Aflatoxin exposure: A toxin produced by molds found in improperly stored food.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption: Leads to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
  • Family history: A higher risk if there is a history of liver cancer in the family.

Diagnosis:

  • Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to detect tumors in the liver.
  • Blood Tests: Including alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, which may be elevated in liver cancer.
  • Liver Biopsy: A sample of liver tissue is examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
  • Liver Function Tests: To assess how well the liver is working.

Treatment:

  • Surgery: Partial hepatectomy (removing part of the liver) or liver transplant.
  • Ablation Therapy: Destroying cancer cells using heat, cold, or alcohol.
  • Embolization: Blocking the blood supply to the tumor, either with tiny particles (TACE) or radioactive beads (radioembolization).
  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cells, like sorafenib.
  • Immunotherapy: Helping the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
  • Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

Prevention:



  • Hepatitis B vaccination: To prevent hepatitis B infection.
  • Limit alcohol consumption: To reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer.
  • Healthy diet and exercise: To prevent obesity and NAFLD.
  • Regular screening: For those with chronic liver conditions to detect cancer early.

References:

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