Liver Cancer

Diagnosis of Liver Cancer

Tests and procedures used to diagnose liver cancer include:

Blood tests

Blood tests may reveal abnormalities in liver function.

Imaging tests

Your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI to visualize the liver and detect tumors.

Liver biopsy

Sometimes it is necessary to remove a small piece of liver tissue for laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis.

• During a liver biopsy, a thin needle is inserted through the skin into the liver to obtain a tissue sample.
• The tissue is examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
• Risks include bleeding, bruising, and infection.

Determining the extent of the cancer (staging)

Once diagnosed, additional imaging tests such as CT, MRI, and bone scans help determine the size, location, and spread of the cancer.

• Staging uses systems with Roman numerals I–IV or letters A–D.
• The stage guides treatment options and prognosis.

Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

Treatments depend on the stage of the disease, liver function, age, overall health, and personal preferences.

Surgery

Surgery to remove the tumor

In suitable cases with small tumors and good liver function, the cancer and a margin of healthy tissue are removed.

Liver transplant surgery

The diseased liver is replaced with a healthy donor liver. This option is available only for a small percentage of people with early-stage liver cancer.

Localized treatments

Radiofrequency ablation

Electric current heats and destroys cancer cells using needles guided by imaging.

Cryoablation

Extreme cold (liquid nitrogen) is applied directly to tumors to freeze and destroy cancer cells.

Alcohol injection

Pure alcohol is injected into the tumor to cause cell death.

Chemoembolization

Strong chemotherapy drugs are delivered directly into the liver.

Radiation beads

Tiny spheres containing radiation are placed in the liver to target the tumor.

Radiation therapy

High-powered energy beams (X-rays or protons) destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.

• Used when surgery is not possible or to control symptoms in advanced cases.
• Includes external beam radiation and stereotactic body radiotherapy.

Targeted drug therapy

Drugs block specific abnormalities in cancer cells, causing them to die. Many options exist for advanced liver cancer; testing may identify if certain genetic changes make them effective.

Immunotherapy

Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Generally used for advanced liver cancer.

Chemotherapy

Drugs kill rapidly growing cells and may be used for advanced liver cancer.

Supportive (palliative) care

Specialized care relieves pain and symptoms, provided alongside other treatments to improve quality of life.