Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Also known as: Liver Cancer
What is it?
Primary liver cell cancer.
Who gets it?
Occurs in men more so than women, ages 50-60
years old. Individuals with known cirrhosis, or
hepatitis are at increased risk.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may include abdominal pain or
tenderness, sudden weight loss.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by checking the blood for
tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein, and
diagnostic evaluation with abdominal CAT Scan or
MRI. Lesions or tumors that are identified by
radiology studies should be further investigated
by biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment is aimed at reducing the size of the
tumor or removing the tumor, depending on the
size, location and number of tumors present.
Surgical resection of the tumor may be an option
if the patient does not have advanced liver
disease. Chemoembolization of the tumor may also
be performed to reduce the size of the tumor.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma may be a contraindication
to transplant or may increase priority for
transplant depending on the nature of the tumor(s).
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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