Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer, accounting for approximately 75-85% of all cases. It originates in hepatocytes, the primary functional cells of the liver. HCC is more common in males than females and has a higher incidence in certain geographic regions, such as Asia and Africa.

Several risk factors are associated with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, including:

1. Chronic viral hepatitis: Hepatitis B and C are the leading causes of HCC worldwide. Long-term infections with these viruses can lead to liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and eventually, the development of liver cancer.
2. Cirrhosis: This is a chronic liver disease characterized by the replacement of normal liver tissue with scar tissue. Cirrhosis can result from various causes, such as chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The presence of cirrhosis significantly increases the risk of developing HCC.
3. Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and an increased risk of HCC.
4. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): These conditions are characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to inflammation, liver damage, and eventually HCC.
5. Aflatoxin exposure: Aflatoxins are toxic substances produced by certain fungi that can contaminate food supplies, particularly grains and nuts. Chronic exposure to aflatoxins is associated with an increased risk of HCC.
6. Genetic factors: Certain inherited metabolic disorders and genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing HCC.

Early-stage HCC may not cause any symptoms, making it difficult to detect. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite, and fatigue. The diagnosis of HCC typically involves imaging studies (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), blood tests (including the measurement of alpha-fetoprotein, a tumor marker), and sometimes a liver biopsy.

Treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma depend on the stage and extent of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health. Potential treatments include surgical resection, liver transplantation, ablation therapies (such as radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.