Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as primary liver cancer, is a cancer of the liver that originates in the liver cells. It is the most common type of liver cancer and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. HCC is typically seen in patients who have cirrhosis, a long-term condition caused by scarring of the liver due to chronic liver damage. Other risk factors for HCC include long-term infection with hepatitis B or C, diabetes, obesity, alcohol abuse, and exposure to certain toxins. HCC can cause a variety of symptoms including abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and fatigue. Diagnosis of HCC is usually done by imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasound. Blood tests may also be used to screen for elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and/or des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP). If HCC is suspected, a biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for HCC depends on the extent of the disease and can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.