Liver cancer is a disease in which healthy cells in the liver start growing uncontrollably and form a malignant tumour. It can either begin in the liver itself (called primary liver cancer, most commonly hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC) or spread from another organ such as the colon, breast, or lungs (known as secondary or metastatic liver cancer).
Who is at High Risk from Liver Cancer?
Certain health conditions and lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
- Chronic hepatitis B or C infections significantly raise the risk.
- Liver conditions like cirrhosis or fatty liver disease make cancer more likely.
- Regular and heavy alcohol consumption can contribute to liver damage and cancer.
- A family history of liver cancer increases susceptibility.
- Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins from contaminated food) is a known risk factor.
- Obesity and diabetes may also increase the chances of developing liver cancer.
Types of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer can develop in different parts of the liver, depending on the type of cells affected. The main types include:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): The most common form of liver cancer, originating in the primary liver cells (hepatocytes).
- Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Begins in the bile ducts within the liver, affecting the flow of bile.
- Angiosarcoma: A rare type that starts in the blood vessels of the liver, often growing quickly.
- Hepatoblastoma: This condition typically occurs in children, developing from immature liver cells.
- Secondary liver cancer: Also called metastatic liver cancer, which occurs when cancer spreads to the liver from another part of the body. More common than hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Symptoms of Liver Cancer
Early detection improves treatment outcomes. Common early signs of liver cancer include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
As the disease progresses, patients may experience:
- Abdominal swelling or discomfort, especially in the right upper quadrant
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the liver area
Consult a liver specialist if you experience persistent symptoms, even if they are mild.
Causes of Liver Cancer
Causes of Liver cancer can develop due to a combination of infections, lifestyle habits, genetics, and environmental factors that gradually damage the liver.
- Chronic hepatitis B and C infections: Long-term viral infections cause persistent inflammation in the liver, which can lead to scarring and increase the risk of cancer.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Regular heavy drinking puts continuous stress on the liver, damaging liver cells and promoting the development of cancer.
- Inherited or genetic liver conditions: Certain inherited disorders can make the liver more vulnerable to damage, raising the likelihood of cancer over time.
- Exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals: Prolonged contact with harmful substances, such as industrial chemicals or contaminated food, can injure liver cells and trigger malignancy.
- Importance of awareness and medical care: Understanding these causes encourages regular liver check-ups and early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes.
Diagnosis / Tests for Liver Cancer
Diagnosing liver cancer involves a combination of tests to detect the condition and plan appropriate care accurately. Common liver cancer tests in Delhi include:
- Blood tests: Measuring markers such as AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) and PIVKA can help indicate liver abnormalities.
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI provide detailed images of the liver to identify suspicious areas.
- Liver biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
- Staging tests: These help determine the extent of cancer and guide treatment planning.
Early and accurate diagnosis of liver cancer is essential for timely professional care.
Treatment of Liver Cancer
The treatment of liver cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. At Venkateshwar Hospitals, every patient receives a personalised, multidisciplinary approach to ensure the best liver cancer treatment in Delhi.
Surgical Options:
- Hepatic resection: Involves removing the tumour or the affected portion of the liver to prevent cancer from spreading.
- Liver transplantation: Considered for patients with extensive liver disease, this procedure replaces the damaged liver with a healthy donor liver.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Uses controlled heat to destroy tumour cells while preserving healthy liver tissue.
- Microwave ablation (MWA): Uses microwave energy to heat and destroy cancer cells with high precision, making it effective for small to medium-sized liver tumors.
- Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE): Delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver tumour, limiting its growth and minimising side effects on the rest of the body.
- Transarterial radioembolization (TARE): Delivers tiny radioactive beads directly into the tumor’s blood supply, targeting cancer cells internally while sparing healthy liver tissue.
- Targeted drug therapy: Focuses on blocking the growth of cancer cells at the molecular level, offering a precise and effective treatment approach.
- Immunotherapy: Strengthens the body’s natural immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: Used for localised tumours or for palliative care to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
All treatments are coordinated by a team of hepatologists, oncologists, and surgeons, ensuring a comprehensive and personalised care plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
Complications of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer can develop due to infections, lifestyle habits, genetics, and environmental factors that gradually harm the liver.
Key Causes:
- Chronic hepatitis B and C: Long-term infection causes liver inflammation and scarring.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking damages liver cells and increases cancer risk.
- Genetic liver conditions: Inherited disorders make the liver more vulnerable.
- Exposure to toxins: Contact with harmful chemicals or contaminated food can trigger cancer.
- Awareness and medical care: Early check-ups and intervention improve outcomes.
Prevention of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer risk can be reduced by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and staying vigilant about liver health.
- Hepatitis B vaccination and preventive screening for hepatitis B & C
- Practice safe hygiene and lifestyle habits to avoid infections
- Limit alcohol intake
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight
- Regular health check-ups for high-risk patients
Why Choose Venkateshwar Hospitals for Liver Cancer?
- Advanced diagnostic and imaging facilities, including PET-CT, MRI, and liver biopsy labs
- Experienced oncologists, hepatologists, and transplant surgeons
- Multidisciplinary tumour board approach for personalised treatment
- State-of-the-art technology for surgery and non-surgical interventions
- Patient-centric care with counselling, nutrition support, and rehabilitation
Outlook
The course of liver cancer depends on factors such as the stage at diagnosis and the treatment plan. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes, as it allows timely and effective care tailored to the patient’s needs. With prompt medical attention, the chances of controlling the disease and supporting liver function are higher.
Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential for managing liver health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, attending routine check-ups, and staying informed about the condition can help maintain overall well-being. With a personalised approach and proactive care, patients can navigate their treatment journey with confidence and work towards achieving a good quality of life.
