Liver Cancer Doctor in Indore

Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the liver cells. It most frequently develops in people with underlying liver disease, but can also occur without clear predisposing factors. Most symptoms appear only once the cancer is advanced.

Common Types of Liver Cancer

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): Most common type, arising from liver cells (hepatocytes).

• Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer of the bile duct cells inside the liver.

• Hepatoblastoma: Rare childhood liver cancer.

• Angiosarcoma and hemangiosarcoma: Very rare, aggressive tumors of the blood vessels in the liver.

Symptoms

• Unintentional weight loss and loss of appetite.

• Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen.

• Nausea, vomiting, and general fatigue.

• Abdominal swelling (ascites) and a lump in the right abdomen.

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

• Pale (chalky) stools or dark urine.

• Fever and easy bruising/bleeding (sometimes).

Risk Factors

• Chronic hepatitis B or C virus infections.

• Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), from any cause.

• Heavy alcohol consumption over the years.

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), especially if complicated by non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

• Diabetes and obesity.

• Certain inherited liver diseases (hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency).

• Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins from poorly stored grains/nuts).

• Smoking tobacco.

Prevention

• Vaccination against hepatitis B virus.

• Early detection and treatment of hepatitis C infection.

• Limiting alcohol intake.

• Maintaining a healthy body weight, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise.

• Avoiding tobacco and exposure to aflatoxin-contaminated foods.

• Monitoring and regular liver checks for people with cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, or other risk factors.

Early detection of liver cancer provides the best chance for treatment and improved outcomes, while management of risk factors is crucial for prevention.