Liver Cancer

Home > Cancer Information > Liver Cancer
Understanding, Managing, and Living Beyond Liver Cancer

What is Liver Cancer?

Liver cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the liver grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The liver is a vital organ responsible for filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, and supporting metabolism. The most common type of liver cancer in adults is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Liver cancer can develop due to chronic liver disease, hepatitis infections, cirrhosis, or other risk factors. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Recognizing early symptoms is important for timely intervention. Common signs include:

Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

Upper abdominal pain or swelling

Nausea or vomiting

Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Fatigue or weakness

Swelling in the legs

Itchy skin or easy bruising

Abdominal fullness or bloating

If you notice persistent or unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Tests may include:

Physical Examination & Medical History

Detects liver enlargement and risk factors.

Blood Tests

Evaluate liver function and detect tumor markers like AFP (alpha-fetoprotein).

Imaging Tests

Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to detect tumors in the liver.

Biopsy

Removal of a small tissue sample to confirm cancer type.

PET Scan

Checks if liver cancer has spread to other organs.

Early diagnosis improves treatment effectiveness and outcomes.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health. Common approaches include:

Surgery

Liver Resection

Removal of the tumor and affected liver tissue.

Liver Transplant

Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy donor liver for eligible patients.

Ablation Therapy

Techniques such as radiofrequency or microwave ablation to destroy small tumors.

Embolization Therapy

Blocks blood flow to the tumor using chemoembolization or radioembolization.

Targeted Therapy

Drugs that block specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

Immunotherapy

Boosts the immune system to attack liver cancer cells.

Radiotherapy

Uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells, often for palliative purposes.

Treatment plans are individualized by medical teams to ensure the best outcomes.

Managing Side Effects

Liver cancer treatments may cause side effects, including:

Common side effects may include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain in the abdomen or surgical site
  • Changes in liver function

Tips to manage side effects:

  • Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated
  • Take adequate rest and gentle exercise as tolerated
  • Use medications to control nausea, pain, or other symptoms
  • Seek emotional support from counselors, family, or support groups
  • Communicate with your healthcare team for safe side-effect management
Always communicate with your healthcare team to manage side effects safely.

Living With & Beyond Cancer

Life during and after liver cancer treatment can be challenging.

Strategies to maintain quality of life include:

  • Attend regular follow-ups and screenings
  • Join support groups or counseling sessions
  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle with diet, exercise, and stress management
  • Monitor liver health with medical guidance, especially if liver function is compromised
Ongoing care and self-management help maintain quality of life.

Children & Young People

Liver cancer is uncommon in children and adolescents, but awareness is important in families with risk factors.

Key considerations include:

  • Watch for symptoms such as abdominal swelling, jaundice, or fatigue
  • Provide age-appropriate counseling and education
  • Offer emotional support through therapy or peer support
  • Pediatric cases require specialized care for liver function and overall growth
Early support helps young patients cope with treatment and recovery.

End-of-Life Care

For advanced liver cancer, palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life:

Core aspects of care include:

  • Managing pain, fatigue, and other symptoms
  • Emotional and psychological support for patients and families
  • Assistance with daily activities and decision-making
  • Hospice services for specialized end-of-life care
End-of-life care prioritizes symptom relief, emotional support, and maintaining dignity.
For more information, you can visit:
Cancer Research UK - Liver Cancer