Liver cancer is a serious condition that arises when malignant cells form in the tissues of the liver. It can either originate in the liver (primary liver cancer) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary liver cancer). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer.
Causes of liver cancer include chronic liver diseases like hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity. Smoking and exposure to harmful chemicals may also increase the risk.
Symptoms of liver cancer often do not appear in the early stages but may include weight loss, loss of appetite, upper abdominal pain, jaundice, and swelling in the abdomen. If detected late, the condition may have a more challenging prognosis.
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs, and sometimes a liver biopsy. These tests help confirm the presence and stage of the cancer, guiding treatment decisions.
Treatment options depend on the size, location, and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. They may include surgery, liver transplantation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. Surgery, performed by a specialist like Dr. Oindrila Biswas, is often the most effective option for early-stage liver cancer.
Dr. Oindrila Biswas, a renowned surgical oncologist in Kolkata, provides advanced treatments for liver cancer, offering patients hope through expert care and personalized treatment plans.