Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a cancer that begins in the liver. It is a very serious and complex form of cancer, and is the seventh most common cause of cancer death worldwide. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma, which accounts for 80 to 90 percent of liver cancers. Other types of liver cancer include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, hepatoblastoma, and angiosarcoma. Risk factors for liver cancer include long-term infection with hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, and diabetes. Symptoms of liver cancer include abdominal pain and swelling, jaundice, fatigue, weight loss, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Diagnosis of liver cancer usually involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Blood tests, biopsies, and other tests may also be used to diagnose liver cancer. Treatment for liver cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the size of the tumor, and the patient's overall health. Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Immunotherapy and targeted therapies may also be used.