Understanding Liver Cancer and Its Advanced Treatments
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body, performing a multitude of essential functions such as filtering blood, metabolizing nutrients, and producing bile to aid digestion. However, when cells in the liver start to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, it can lead to the development of liver cancer – a life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention. Medical Oncologist in Mumbai works closely with radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists to accurately diagnose and stage liver cancer based on imaging studies, biopsies, and other diagnostic tests.
What is Liver Cancer?
Liver cancer is a broad term that encompasses several types of malignancies that originate in the liver. The two main types are:
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): This is the most common form of primary liver cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of cases. HCC develops from the hepatocytes, which are the main cells that make up the liver tissue.
- Cholangiocarcinoma: This type of cancer arises from the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can increase an individual’s risk of developing this cancer, including:
- Chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C)
- Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver due to various causes)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Exposure to certain toxins, such as aflatoxins (produced by mold that can contaminate foods)
- Hereditary conditions like hemochromatosis (iron overload disorder)
Early Detection and Diagnosis
Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for successful liver cancer treatment. Some of the common diagnostic tests used include:
- Blood tests (to check for elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced by liver cancer cells)
- Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, PET scan) to detect tumours and assess their size and location
- Biopsy (removing a sample of liver tissue for microscopic examination)
Advanced Treatments for Liver Cancer
The treatment approach for cancer depends on various factors, such as the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the liver’s functional capacity. Some of the advanced treatment options available include:
- Surgical Resection: If the tumour is localized and the liver function is adequate, surgical removal of the cancerous part of the liver (partial hepatectomy) may be an option. This procedure aims to remove the tumour while preserving as much healthy liver tissue as possible.
- Liver Transplantation: For patients with early-stage liver cancer and advanced cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be recommended. This approach involves replacing the diseased liver with a healthy donor liver, effectively removing the cancer and treating the underlying liver disease simultaneously.
- Ablation Therapies: These minimally invasive techniques use extreme temperatures (heat or cold) to destroy cancer cells without removing the entire tumour. Common ablation methods include radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation, and cryoablation.
- Embolization Therapies: These treatments block the blood supply to the tumour, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients, causing cancer cells to die. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radioembolization (with yttrium-90 microspheres) are examples of embolization therapies used for cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs designed to specifically target and interfere with the molecular pathways that allow cancer cells to grow and spread. Examples of targeted therapies used in this cancer include sorafenib, lenvatinib, and ramucirumab.
- Immunotherapy: This approach harnesses the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab, have shown promise in treating certain types of liver cancer.
- Clinical Trials: Many liver cancer patients may be eligible to participate in clinical trials investigating new and experimental treatments, such as novel targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and combination therapies.
Multidisciplinary Approach and Supportive Care
At HCG hospital borivali , Liver cancer treatment often involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including hepatologists (liver specialists), medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, surgeons, pathologists, and nurses. This team works together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Additionally, supportive care services, such as nutritional counselling, pain management, and psychological support, play a crucial role in helping patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges associated with this cancer and its treatment.
Prevention and Awareness
While not all cases of liver cancer are preventable, there are several measures individuals can take to reduce their risk:
- Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Practising safe sexual practices and avoiding intravenous drug use to prevent hepatitis C infection
- Maintaining a healthy body weight and exercising regularly to prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding exposure to toxins, such as aflatoxins, that can increase this cancer risk
Regular screening for individuals at high risk, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or C or cirrhosis, is also essential for early detection and prompt treatment.
Conclusion
Liver cancer is a complex and challenging condition, but with the advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatment approaches, there is hope for improved outcomes. By understanding the disease, its risk factors, and the available treatment options, individuals can make informed decisions and seek appropriate care from specialized liver cancer centres.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with liver cancer, it is crucial to consult with experienced healthcare professionals who can provide personalized guidance and access to the latest treatments and clinical trials. With a multidisciplinary approach and supportive care, patients can navigate this journey with strength and resilience.
