Liver Cancer Download PDF, 471KB, PDFWhat Is Liver Cancer? Primary liver cancer refers to cancer originating from the cells of the liver. It is classified based on the type of cells affected by cancer:Hepatocellular carcinoma starts in the liver cells which are called hepatocytesCholangiocarcinoma or bile duct cancer begins in the bile ductsThere are many other rare forms of liver cancer Metastatic liver cancer refers to cancer that has spread from other organs such as colon, lung, breast and stomach to liver. Metastatic liver cancer is more common than primary liver cancer. Source: http://www.cancer.gov/publishedcontent/syndication/4564.htm CausesThe risk of liver cancer is increased in:Chronic carriers of Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virusThose with liver cirrhosis (liver hardening)Those with a bile duct disease called primary sclerosing cholangitisHeavy alcohol drinkers and alcohol abusers (alcohol abuse can lead to liver cirrhosis)Those with exposure to Aflatoxin which is produced by a mould found on nuts, corn and grainsThose with a family history of liver cancerSymptomsEarly stage liver cancer may not have any signs. As the cancer advances to a later stage, it may produce the following symptoms:Loss of appetite and weightWeakness and fatigueNausea and vomitingAbdominal swelling/bloatedLump in the abdomenAbdominal painYellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of eyes (jaundice)Diagnosis Ultrasound (Scan) Computerised Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Liver Biopsy: A procedure where a small sample of tissue is taken to be examined under the microscope Blood Tests: Test for the presence of a cancer marker called alphafetoprotein (AFP). It is important to note that AFP levels may be normal even in the presence of liver cancer, or elevated in patients without liver cancer, and hence it is NOT used to make a diagnosis.TreatmentSome of the treatment options available include: Surgical removal of the tumour Liver Transplantation Local Ablative Therapies (LATs):There are various techniques for LAT. They provide targeted destruction of the liver tumours under imaging guidance. Examples include inserting a special needle with microwave, radiofrequency or freezing properties to destroy tumours in a targeted area. LATs are more effective on smaller tumours. TransArterial Chemo Embolidation (TACE):TACE involves injecting chemotherapy agents into the blood vessel supplying blood to the tumour and blocking it off with beads or particles to deprive the tumour of nutrition. Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT):Radioactive particles are delivered directly via a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) in the blood vessel to the liver tumour to destroy the cancer cells. Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy:The use of anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells or to stop them from multiplying.PreventionGetting vaccinated for Hepatitis BAvoiding body piercing and tattooingLimiting alcohol intakeNot engaging in unprotected sexNot abusing drugs or sharing intravenous drug needlesChronic carriers of Hepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C are advised to consider regular screening
