Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer — that is, cancer that originates in the liver. HCC occurs most often in people with chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection.
Key points about hepatocellular carcinoma include:
- Risk factors: Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C is a major risk factor for HCC. Other risk factors include cirrhosis (scarring of the liver, often due to conditions like alcoholism or fatty liver disease), metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, and certain genetic conditions like hemochromatosis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
- Symptoms: In the early stages, HCC may not cause any symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include pain in the upper abdomen, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and swelling in the abdomen.
- Diagnosis: HCC is typically diagnosed through imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Sometimes, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
- Treatment: Treatment options for HCC depend on the stage of the disease and the overall health of the liver. They can include surgery (either resection of the tumor or a liver transplant), local treatments such as radiofrequency ablation or chemoembolization, systemic treatments such as chemotherapy or targeted therapy, and palliative care to manage symptoms.
- Prevention: Preventive measures include vaccination against hepatitis B, treatment for hepatitis C, managing risk factors like alcohol use and obesity, and regular screening for people with chronic liver disease.
Remember, while HCC is a serious condition, each individual’s prognosis can vary widely based on various factors, including the stage of the disease, the person’s overall health, and the specific treatment plan. Therefore, it’s important to discuss individual symptoms, risk factors, or treatment options with a healthcare provider.
