It is a disease caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the liver. What is liver cancer? It is commonly known as hepatocellular carcinoma. Symptoms include weight loss, abdominal pain and jaundice. It is linked to risk factors such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. Early diagnosis is important for treatment, but treatment is difficult in advanced stages. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
What are the symptoms of liver cancer?
Unexplained weight loss is the most common liver cancer It is one of the symptoms. Patients usually experience a decrease in their desire to eat. There may be pain in the area where the liver is located, especially in the upper right abdomen. Swelling may be felt in the abdomen due to liver enlargement or tumor growth.
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes can be a sign that the liver is not working properly. Constant tiredness and weakness can increase as the cancer spreads. Liver dysfunction can lead to stomach problems. These symptoms can also be associated with other health problems. It is important to see a specialist if you experience any symptoms.
What is Liver Cancer? What Causes It?
One of the most common causes is chronic Hepatitis B and C infections. These viruses cause long-term damage to the liver, which can lead to cancer. Liver cirrhosis occurs when cells are destroyed and turn into scar tissue.
Due to cirrhosis liver cancer The risk of developing it increases. Alcohol consumption is a common factor that leads to cirrhosis. A fungal toxin called aflatoxin, which is found in foods, is especially found in moist foods. This toxin increases the risk. Individuals with a family history of this type of cancer are more likely to develop it.
Excessive alcohol consumption damages the liver structure and prepares the ground. Similarly, smoking increases the risk. Overweight individuals are at higher risk due to liver steatosis and related damage. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease causes cellular damage that can turn into cancer due to fat accumulation in the liver. Hemochromatosis is a genetic disease known as iron accumulation in the body. It can cause liver damage and cancer development. These substances liver cancer covers common causes.
How Is Liver Cancer Treated?
Surgical removal of cancer is one of the most effective treatment methods. However, this treatment method is used in cases where the cancer has not spread outside the liver and is suitable for surgical intervention.
When surgery is not possible, liver transplantation is considered. It is especially suitable for patients in the early stages. It can be applied if a healthy donor organ is found. In the tumor ablation method, the tumor is destroyed directly with heat, cold (cryoablation) or chemicals (alcohol injection). It is preferred for small tumors.
Targeted therapy involves using drugs that block the growth of cancer cells. This treatment is used in advanced stages It is applied when it occurs. Regional chemotherapy applied directly to the liver (TACE) is usually used. Drugs are injected directly into the liver and aim to shrink the tumor. Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy rays to shrink the tumor and relieve symptoms. Advanced methods are used to avoid damaging the liver.
Immunotherapy is done with drugs that increase the immune system's ability to fight cancer. It can be applied to advanced-stage cancers. Supportive treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. It includes approaches such as painkillers and nutritional supplements. The appropriate treatment plan is determined by the doctor after evaluating the patient's specific condition.
