Liver Cancer

About

Cancer that originates in the liver is known as liver cancer, hepatic cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (from the Greek hēpar, meaning liver).

Types

• Primary liver cancer - Cancer that begins in the tissue of the liver, an organ in the digestive system.
• Secondary liver cancer - Cancer from the colon, lung, breast or other parts of the body spreads to the liver.
• Non-cancerous (benign) tumors - Tumors may also form in the liver.

Symptoms

Often, liver cancer symptoms do not occur until late stages. Some symptoms may include:

• Pain in the abdomen, particularly in the upper right side, that may also be in back and shoulder.
• Swollen abdomen.
• Loss of appetite and weight.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Weakness and tiredness.
• Yellow coloring of the skin, whites of your eyes and dark urine (jaundice).
• Fever.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a MemorialCare Physician partner.

Risk Factors & Prevention

You are at a greater risk for liver cancer risk if you:

• Are male.
• Are over the age of 40 years.
• Are African American, Asian or Polynesian.
• Suffer from certain types of liver diseases, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) or cirrhosis.
• Are exposed to aflatoxins – a mold found in food such as peanuts, corn and soybeans.
• Are Diabetic.

The causes for liver cancer are unknown. By avoiding hepatitis infections, moldy grains, limiting alcohol use and not smoking you can help reduce your risk for liver cancer.