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Liver Cancer
Moderate
Liver cancer is cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. The most common primary liver cancer in adults is hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver cancer can develop in people with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and chronic infection with hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, sudden confusion or extreme drowsiness, severe swelling of the abdomen, fainting, or rapidly worsening jaundice or other symptoms.
Symptoms
4
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Liver cancer is cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. The most common primary liver cancer in adults is hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver cancer can develop in people with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and chronic infection with hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed.
Symptoms 4
Blood In Stool
Lower Abdominal Pain
Persistent Hoarseness
Weight Loss
Causes 2
Liver cancer develops when liver cells acquire changes that cause uncontrolled growth. Several conditions can increase the likelihood of these changes. Chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection, cirrhosis, heavy alcohol use, and certain inherited or metabolic conditions can increase risk. Some liver cancers can also arise from exposure to particular toxins or other chronic liver injuries.
Alcohol
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk factors include chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection, cirrhosis, long-term heavy alcohol use, certain inherited metabolic diseases, exposure to some toxins, and chronic liver inflammation. The risk is also affected by the underlying cause and severity of liver disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of liver cancer may involve blood tests, imaging studies, and examination of the liver. Ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging can identify suspicious lesions and help determine their size and location. Blood tests may include liver function tests and tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein. A biopsy may be performed in selected cases when imaging does not provide a clear diagnosis.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Risk of liver cancer can be reduced by preventing or treating chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C, limiting heavy alcohol use, maintaining a healthy body weight, and managing conditions that cause chronic liver disease
People with cirrhosis or other high-risk liver conditions should follow recommended medical surveillance and treatment plans
Prevention Guidance
Risk of liver cancer can be reduced by preventing or treating chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C, limiting heavy alcohol use, maintaining a healthy body weight, and managing conditions that cause chronic liver disease. People with cirrhosis or other high-risk liver conditions should follow recommended medical surveillance and treatment plans.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Protein Rich Foods
Support recovery and strength.
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants.
Vegetables
Support nutritional needs.
Whole Grains
Provide energy and fiber.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
Can worsen liver damage.
Highly Processed Foods
May negatively affect health.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is a malignant tumor that develops in the liver.
People with hepatitis and cirrhosis have increased risk.
Weight loss, abdominal pain, and jaundice may occur.
Imaging tests, AFP levels, and biopsy may be used.
Treatment may include surgery, ablation, or chemotherapy.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.