Liver Cancer
For liver cancer, surgical resection, ablation, TACE, targeted therapy, and transplant evaluation are coordinated as a personalized plan across our accredited network.
What is liver cancer?
Liver cancer forms from the uncontrolled growth of liver cells. The most common primary type is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which usually develops on a background of chronic liver disease.
Tumors that spread to the liver from other organs (metastatic) are more common than primary liver cancer and are treated differently.
What are the types of liver cancer?
Main types:
Causes and risk factors
Main risk factors:
- Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C infection
- Liver cirrhosis
- Heavy alcohol use
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH)
- Exposure to toxins such as aflatoxin
- Obesity and diabetes
What are the symptoms of liver cancer?
No symptoms early on; later it may cause:
- Pain or swelling in the upper right abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Nausea and weakness
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Easy bruising or bleeding
What are the stages of liver cancer?
Staging also considers liver function alongside the tumor (BCLC system):
How is liver cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis relies on imaging and blood tests; a biopsy is not always needed:
- AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) blood test
- Detection of typical findings on contrast imaging
- Liver biopsy when needed
- Liver function tests
Imaging methods in liver cancer
Imaging plays a critical role in diagnosis and follow-up:
- Liver ultrasound (screening)
- Contrast (dynamic) CT
- Contrast liver MRI
- PET-CT (in selected cases)
Liver cancer treatment methods
Treatment is planned by tumor and liver function:
Every patient and every tumor is different
No single treatment is right for everyone; the best plan depends on your exact diagnosis, stage, and tumor characteristics. At National Cancer Alliance, we arrange a free second opinion from board-certified oncologists to review your case.
Prognosis and survival rates
Prognosis in liver cancer depends on tumor stage and how well the liver works. In early stage, surgery or transplant markedly raises 5-year survival, while it falls in advanced disease.
Early diagnosis and, in the right patient, liver transplant can provide the best long-term outcomes. Regular screening in at-risk patients is key to catching the tumor early.
How to reduce liver cancer risk
Measures that help lower risk:
- Getting the hepatitis B vaccine
- Treating hepatitis B/C infections
- Limiting or quitting alcohol
- Maintaining a healthy weight and managing fatty liver
- Regular ultrasound and AFP follow-up in patients with cirrhosis/hepatitis
Frequently asked questions
Is liver cancer always operated on?
No. Depending on liver function and tumor extent, ablation, TACE, transplant, or systemic therapy may be preferred.
Who is eligible for a transplant?
In patients meeting specific criteria with limited tumor burden, transplant can treat both the cancer and the underlying liver disease.
Is jaundice a sign of cancer?
Jaundice has many causes; in liver cancer it appears in advanced stages. Any jaundice must be evaluated.
Should I get a second opinion?
Treatment selection in liver cancer is complex; an independent center review lets you see all options including transplant.
Ready for a plan built around you?
Start with a free, no-obligation second opinion from a board-certified oncologist. Have your case reviewed and every option explained clearly.
Get a FREE Second OpinionThis page provides general information about liver cancer; it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatments are provided by independent, accredited hospitals and licensed physicians. Your treatment decision should be made by a qualified physician based on your individual situation.