Some information on liver cancer The liver is the largest organ in the human body, is located in the right side of the abdomen and is responsible for the production of enzymes and bile acids that help digest food in order to convert them into substances needed by the body, and eliminate harmful substances from the bloodstream. Because there is no cure against advanced liver cancer, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid death! Know the symptoms and risk factors for liver cancer, and receive regular checkups is key to "catch up" with liver cancer before it spreads to other organs of the body.
Types of primary liver cancer is cancer that originates in the liver, while the secondary liver cancer is a tumor associated with cancer cells from another area of the body. Both types of cancer can occur in children and adults and both are potentially fatal. The majority primary liver cancers start in liver cells called "hepatocytes." When liver cancer starts in these cells, it is called hepatoma or hepatocellular carcinoma. Liver cancer can spread, or metastasize, in remote areas of the body or to lymph nodes
neighbors. Primary liver cancer is less common than secondary liver cancer.
Risk Factors Although the exact cause of liver cancer is unknown, some people are at increased risk of developing liver cancer, including those with chronic liver infection, such as hepatitis B or C. cirrhosis of the liver is another risk factor for liver cancer, and about 5 percent of people diagnosed with cirrhosis eventually develop liver cancer. Other risk factors include exposure to aflatoxin M1, a family member with cancer, be aged over 60 and male. The more risk factors a person is high, there will be more likely to develop liver cancer.
Identification The early stages of liver cancer often cause no symptoms, but when the cancer grows or spreads, symptoms may develop and become increasingly severe. Pain in the right upper abdomen, which may extend to the back or shoulders, and weight loss are two of the most common symptoms. Other symptoms include a swollen abdomen, loss of appetite and feeling full when the stomach is empty, fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, fever and jaundice. Signs of jaundice (eyes and yellow skin) and dark urine, always require immediate medical evaluation.
Diagnosis If liver cancer is suspected, a thorough medical examination be made. The doctor will examine the abdominal area to check for bumps, fluid or pain. Blood tests will be ordered to check liver function, and a CT scan will be performed to obtain detailed images of the liver and surrounding organs. Ultrasound, MRI and angiography may also be performed. If a tumor is found, a biopsy will be performed to diagnose the presence of malignant cells, and identify the specific type of cancer present.
Prevention / Solution Early diagnosis of cancer liver is essential, since the liver cancer can be cured unless it is found early and before it spreads to other parts of the body. Liver cancer is usually treated with early surgery. The treatment of advanced stages of liver cancer focuses on slowing the disease and improves quality of life. Treatment options may include medication,
chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. Treatment is individualized and based on the number, size and location of tumors, as well as the general condition and stage of liver cancer and general health the patient.