How is Liver Cancer Diagnosed? From Testing to Screening Liver Cancer

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Whether you have already been diagnosed with liver cancer or are suspicious of having the condition, it is normal to be unsure and apprehensive of what’s ahead. 

But don't let the fear get the better of you just yet, let's take a step back and discuss the realities of treating and managing liver cancer.

Liver Cancer 101

Liver cancer occurs when liver cells become abnormal and out-of-control in their growth. There are two types of liver cancer: 

• Primary liver cancer: Directly develops in the liver.

• Secondary liver cancer: This occurs when cancerous tumours have spread from other organs to the liver. 

Another type of liver cancer is known as bile duct cancer or cholangiocarcinoma. While it is sometimes classified as liver cancer, bile duct cancer can appear in the bile ducts that connect the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.

Getting the Right Liver Cancer Diagnosis

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Most individuals who experience symptoms of liver cancer are referred to a hepatologist, an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the organs of the abdomen, including the liver.

Diagnosing liver cancer is often done through multiple tests and screenings. Here are three typical steps for evaluating the health of your liver:

Blood Tests

A simple blood test like the albumin test can indicate the presence of cancer or related conditions like cirrhosis (liver scarring). It also helps to identify any abnormalities in liver function like inflammation or poor nutrition.

Imaging Tests

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Imaging tests such as ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT scan), and x-rays can help doctors determine whether or not tumours are forming in the liver. 

Additionally, it offers more details on any tumours in the liver or other areas of the abdomen, their size, shape, and location, as well as any nearby blood vessels.

Biopsy

During a liver biopsy, a doctor uses a needle to take a small sample of liver tissue. This sample can help diagnose any tumours or cancer cells in the liver and determine how severe they are.

Diagnosing liver cancer isn’t always easy, but with the right tests and screenings, you can determine the best course of action for your treatment plan and begin to move forward.

How to Treat Liver Cancer?

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Now that you have a clear understanding of how to diagnose liver cancer, it is time to look into the various treatment options.

The treatment for liver cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the extent of liver function. Treatment options include:

• Surgery: The most common procedure for early-stage liver cancer that removes liver tumours.

• Liver Transplant: This involves removing the infected liver and substituting it with a healthy donor liver.

• Radiation Therapy: Destroys cancer cells by using high-energy beams. For advanced liver cancer, it's frequently combined with other therapies.

• Chemotherapy: Uses medications to shrink or destroy cancer cells.

No matter what stage of liver cancer you are in, it is important to seek out professional medical advice for your specific situation. This will ensure that you get the best possible outcome!

In conclusion, getting the right diagnosis for liver cancer is the first step to understanding and properly treating this condition. 

Depending on your stage of liver cancer, there are a variety of treatments available, from surgery to radiation therapy. Make sure to consult with your doctor or hepatologist so that you can be well-informed about your treatment plan.