Liver Cancer Specialist

What is liver cancer?

There are two types of liver cancer. Primary liver cancer starts in your liver and is often linked to diseases like cirrhosis and hepatitis. Secondary liver cancer metastasized (spread) from another part of your body.

While your genetics play a role in your risk of liver cancer, in many cases, cirrhosis or hepatitis B or C contribute to your disease. Other factors contribute to your risk, including:

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Hemochromatosis
• Consuming aflatoxin — a fungus that grows on incorrectly stored grains and nuts

Your liver is your largest internal organ. It performs a variety of critical tasks, including removing waste products from your blood, filtering and processing chemicals in the products you consume, and producing bile, which aids digestion.

What are the signs of liver cancer?

As with many types of cancer, liver cancer might not cause any noticeable signs in its early stages. As your tumor grows, you’ll likely develop symptoms, including:

• Pain in the upper right corner of your abdomen
• Swollen abdomen
• A solid lump on the upper right side of your abdomen, just beneath your ribs
• Pain in your right shoulder blade or back
• Jaundice
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Unintended weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you have a family history of liver cancer or increased risk because of other factors, make an appointment for testing.

Your doctor can use a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests like ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans to gather more information about your liver. If these tests show abnormalities, your doctor schedules a biopsy to collect cells to test for cancer.

How is liver cancer treated?

If you have liver cancer, the oncologists at Wellness Oncology & Hematology provide customized treatments, depending on the stage of your disease. Some of the procedures designed to destroy and remove liver cancer include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Immunotherapy
• Embolization therapy
• Ablation treatments
• Surgical tumor removal

Your treatment plan can consist of several therapies to help you fight liver cancer. Your oncologist also provides advice and medication to manage the side effects of your treatment and preserve your health.

If you’re concerned about liver cancer, call Wellness Oncology & Hematology or make an appointment online today for specialist diagnosis and treatment.