Liver Cancer

It occurs when abnormal cells in the liver multiply uncontrollably. There are two types: primary and metastatic. Primary liver cancer, It starts in the liver itself. Metastatic cancer spreads from other organs to the liver. Diseases such as hepatitis B, C and cirrhosis are risk factors. Symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss and jaundice. Treatment is more effective with early diagnosis.

What are the symptoms of liver cancer?

There may be pain or a feeling of fullness in the upper right abdomen. Swelling may occur due to an enlarged liver or fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites). Sudden and unexplained weight loss may occur. Loss of appetite and decreased desire to eat are common. Weakness may be felt that is severe enough to prevent daily activities. There may be a significant decrease in energy levels.

Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes is caused by liver dysfunction. Darkening of the urine may also accompany this condition. Digestive complaints may occur in the form of nausea and vomiting. This can worsen loss of appetite. Itching in the body may be seen due to the accumulation of bile salts. There may be rashes on the skin or significant dryness of the skin. It is typical for the stool to be pale, clay-like or for the urine to be very dark. Easily bruising or bleeding may occur due to blood clotting problems. When these symptoms occur, it is important to see a doctor if there are high risk factors. Liver cancer It can be treated more effectively with early diagnosis.

What Causes Liver Cancer?

Long-term infections can damage liver cells and cause them. Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk by causing cirrhosis in the liver. Obesity and diabetes can trigger fatty liver disease, paving the way for cancer. Aflatoxin is a toxin found in moldy foods. It can affect liver cells. It runs in the family liver cancer history may pose a risk. Long-term exposure to harmful chemicals can cause cancer. The accumulation of iron in the body can affect the liver and lead to cancer.

How Is Liver Cancer Diagnosed?

The doctor will take the patient's medical history and assess the symptoms and liver cancer It evaluates risk factors. In particular, liver diseases, hepatitis infection and family history of cancer are questioned. During the physical examination, the liver is checked for enlargement or tenderness. AFP levels are usually elevated in patients experiencing this condition. This test plays an important role in diagnosis and treatment follow-up.

Liver function tests are tests performed to assess the health of the liver. Hepatitis tests are performed to detect the presence of hepatitis B or C infection. Ultrasonography is used to examine masses and abnormal structures in the liver. It is one of the first-choice methods. Computed tomography (CT) provides detailed cross-sectional images of the liver, assessing the size and spread of the tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to show the structure of tumors, especially their relationship to blood vessels.

Positron emission tomography is helpful in assessing whether the cancer has spread to other organs. If imaging tests and blood tests are not sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis, a tissue sample is taken from the liver. A pathological examination is performed. A biopsy plays a critical role in determining the type and stage of cancer. In some cases, endoscopic ultrasonography is used to obtain detailed information about the location of the tumor. Liver cancer Genetic testing is used to examine the genetic and molecular structure of the tumor as a further step in diagnosis. This method can provide information for targeted treatments.

How Is Liver Cancer Treated?

Liver resection can be performed to remove cancerous tissue. It is preferred in early stage patients. In advanced or unsuitable liver cancer In some cases, a healthy donor liver is transplanted. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is used to destroy cancer cells by heating them.

Drug therapy is used to shrink cancer cells or stop them from spreading. Targeted therapy uses special drugs that block the growth of cancer. Cancer is fought with treatments that strengthen the immune system. Drugs are sent directly to cancer cells and blood flow is blocked. Supportive therapy is used to manage pain and improve quality of life.