HEADING 1 - Eastern Liver Network



HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer. This means that it is a cancer that originated in the liver. HCC is uncommon and usually associated with cirrhosis or hepatitis B virus. There are around 3,000 cases of HCC each year in the UK. Worldwide, HCC is much more common.

What causes HCC?

HCC occurs after a cell’s genetic makeup or DNA is damaged. This damage usually occurs due to cirrhosis or long term infection with hepatitis B virus. Smoking is another known risk factor for HCC.

What symptoms does HCC cause?

HCC does not usually cause symptoms until it is advanced. Symptoms of advanced HCC include abdominal pain, jaundice and abdominal swelling.

Can HCC be detected early?

Because HCC only becomes apparent at a late stage, patients at increased risk of developing the condition have regular ultrasound scans and blood tests to help identify it early. If you have cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B above a certain age (40 for males and 50 for females) it is likely that you will be in such a surveillance programme.

How is HCC diagnosed?

Diagnosis of HCC involves a combination of ultrasound scan, CT scan and or MRI scan. Sometimes a liver biopsy is recommended in addition.

How is HCC treated?

Treatment options for HCC include surgical resection, procedures to ablate the cancer by burning it and interruption of the cancer blood supply by injecting beads that block the arteries locally. For patients with significant chronic liver disease and cancer that is not advanced, liver transplantation is sometimes recommended. Chemotherapy is sometimes offered to patients.

What is the outlook with HCC?

Prognosis from HCC is variable and completely depends on your individual case. Details of this can be discussed in clinic.

Further information and useful contacts

• The British Liver Trust (.uk)

• patient.co.uk

• Cancer Help UK ()

• MacMillan Cancer Support (0808 808 0000 and .uk)

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