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Common types of cancer

Liver Cancer

Common types of cancer

Liver Cancer

Liver Cancer - Hepatoma or Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The type of cancer that affects the liver is known as hepatocellular carcinoma.

It is one of the most common types of cancer that can be found globally due to the availability of effective health screening programs. It is regarded as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

HEPATITIS B AND C

The leading causes of liver cancer are chronic viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C.


5.24%

INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS B

2%

INFECTED WITH HEPATITIS C

Both of these viruses can cause liver cancer. Individuals from the following groups are at risk of getting this disease:

Individuals from the following groups are at risk of getting this disease:

Chronic hepatitis B (the risk increases with age).

Chronic hepatitis C with severe fibrosis(scarring).

Liver cirrhosis (liver hardening due to severe fibrosis) from any cause.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with cirrhosis

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer

Early detection is crucial for patients with hepatoma, as the symptoms usually appear late. Since the disease usually progresses late, those at risk need to get screened.

The presence of these symptoms can indicate the late stages of the disease. Therefore, regular screening is essential for those who are at risk.

If the test results are positive, further tests such as a CT scan and MRI are required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.

The symptoms and signs of possible hepatoma:

Right-sided abdominal pain

Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly)

Bone pain

Lethargy, loss of weight and frequent fever

Juandace

Bleeding from ruptured hepatoma leading to bloody fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

Liver Cancer Treatment Options

Different treatment methods are available for patients with hepatoma. Early detection and effective treatment during the early phase can lead to a cure. The list of treatment options is as below:

Hepatectomy is a type of surgical procedure that can be performed to remove a portion of the liver that has been affected by the disease. This method has a high cure rate, but it can be limited by the various factors that affect the patient's condition.

One of the most common treatment methods for patients with hepatoma is radiofrequency ablation. This procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist using a probe that is designed to deliver radio frequency to the cancer cells.

For patients with small-sized tumours unsuitable for resection, liver transplantation may be recommended.

A type of chemotherapy known as transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE) is commonly used for treating patients with hepatoma. It is a procedure performed by an interventional radiologist in which blood supply to a tumour is blocked after anticancer drugs are given in blood vessels near the tumour.

Others are systemic chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted molecular therapy.

Leading the Way in Liver Cancer Care

This article aims to educate people about liver cancer. Subang Jaya Medical Centre is a leading facility with a wide range of cancer treatment options. Its one-stop Cancer and Radiosurgery Centre is equipped with the latest technology.

Our Commitment

The doctors and staff members of the SJMC are dedicated to ensuring that the patients receive the best possible care. They are also committed to conducting prevention and screening programs to ensure that all individuals know the latest treatment methods.