Liver cancer - Hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma stands as the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer. It predominantly afflicts men and is often found in regions where chronic hepatitis virus infections are prevalent, such as sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia.

Cirrhosis emerges as the leading associated factor, with direct links to liver cancer evident in cases of hepatitis B and C virus infections.

Symptoms frequently remain absent, with diagnoses typically arising during routine medical examinations. When symptoms do surface, they commonly present as a decline in overall health, weight loss, and abdominal discomfort; occasionally, the liver may be detectable as an inflamed, palpable mass in the right subcostal area.

Diagnosis involves thorough clinical and physical examinations, supplemented by the identification of alpha-fetoprotein through blood tests and imaging techniques, typically including CT scans and/or MRIs.

Treatment approaches hinge upon the size and spread of the cancer. Curative interventions may involve tumour surgery or even liver transplantation, while palliative care might encompass radiofrequency ablation, internal tumour radiation, or chemoembolisation.