Living with Stage 4 Liver Cancer

It's natural to feel overwhelmed and scared if you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with stage 4 liver cancer. This stage of liver cancer is the most advanced and can be difficult to treat. 

However, it is critical to understand that treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Liver Cancer Stages

With the most advanced stage of liver cancer being stage 4, it is then further broken down into two stages:

• 4A liver cancer: The cancerous cells have invaded nearby lymph nodes, but not the distant organs.

• 4B liver cancer: The liver cancer cells have grown into the blood vessels or organs surrounding the liver and spread to other internal organs, such as the lungs or bones.

The staging of liver cancer is critical for planning the best treatment for patients. While some physicians stage patients according to the TNM system, others stage patients according to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) system.

What is Liver Cancer?

According to the National Cancer Institute, this is a type of cancer known as primary liver cancer, which begins in the liver cells. 

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is more common in adults, and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), which is more common in children, are the two types of primary liver cancer.

Risk factors for developing liver cancer include chronic hepatitis B or C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hereditary liver diseases, and heavy alcohol use.

What is Stage IV Liver Cancer?

When liver cancer reaches stage 4, it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or internal organs like the lungs, bones, or brain. This stage of cancer is also known as the terminal stage and can be difficult to treat.

At this stage, the liver tumours are larger and have invaded nearby blood vessels or liver tissue. The liver may also be enlarged, causing symptoms like nausea and male breast enlargement.

Stage 4 Liver Cancer Signs and Diagnosis

Liver cancer symptoms can be difficult to detect, especially in the early stages. In stage 4 liver cancer, symptoms may include:

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Spleen enlargement

• Abdominal pain and swelling

• Fatigue

Blood tests and imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs can help diagnose liver cancer and determine the extent of the disease.

Treatment Options

At this advanced stage of cancer, treatments are used to manage the progression and symptoms of the disease.

Treatment options for stage 4 liver cancer patients may include surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a liver transplant may be an option.

Life Expectancy

When compared to other stages of liver cancer, stage 4 has a lower life expectancy. Untreated stage 4 liver cancer typically has a life expectancy of fewer than four months.

It is important to remember, however, that each person's situation is unique, and life expectancy can vary depending on factors such as overall health and treatment response. 

Working closely with your medical team is key to managing symptoms and improving your overall health.

Coping with Stage 4 Liver Cancer

When facing advanced liver cancer, talking with friends and family members can provide emotional support and build trust. 

People with stage 4 liver cancer may want to talk to their friends and family about their feelings and situation to feel supported. Planning can help you feel more in control while feeling physically and emotionally well is also important. 

Palliative care nurses can assist with symptom control and improve overall well-being. Palliative care services and supports groups in Malaysia can include:

• Assunta Integrated Social Services (ASSISS)

• Kasih Hospice Care Society

• Hospis Malaysia

Choosing where to receive care and who will provide it can be important considerations, and by openly discussing these issues, you can make informed choices and feel more prepared for end-of-life care.

Conclusion

Stage 4 liver cancer is a serious diagnosis, but it's important for you to communicate openly with your healthcare providers as well as your loved ones to determine the best plan to treat liver cancer while ensuring that your needs and priorities are addressed. 

Although the journey with stage 4 liver cancer can be difficult, there is still hope for living as fully and comfortably as possible.