Liver Cancer: Hepatocellular Carcinoma

1. What is Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of liver cancer that develops from the liver cells themselves. It is a serious and often fatal disease if not treated promptly.

2. Types of Liver Cancer:

Liver cancer includes the following types:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, accounting for about 80-90% of cases.

• Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma: This type is less common than HCC, often progresses more slowly and is easier to treat.

• Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: This cancer originates from the epithelial cells of the bile ducts within the liver.

• Mixed Cancer: Includes a mixture of different types of cancer cells.

• Hepatoblastoma: A rare cancer that typically occurs in infants and children.

3. Characteristics of Hepatoblastoma:

• Malignant tumor: Rapidly growing and invades surrounding tissues.

• Less Common: For instance, it accounts for only about 1-2% of liver cancer cases.

• Occurs in Infants and Children: Often diagnosed in the early years of life.

• Elevated Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): This is an important diagnostic marker for hepatoblastoma.

4. Non-epithelial Cancers Include:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This cancer originates from squamous cells of the liver.

• Lymphoma: This type of cancer develops from lymphocytes in the liver.

• Sarcoma: This cancer originates from connective tissues in the liver.

5. Epidemiology of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC):

• Less Common in the West: More prevalent in developing countries.

• Prevalent in Africa, China, Southeast Asia: These regions have high rates of hepatitis B and C infection.

• Correlation with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): HBV and HCV infections are major risk factors for HCC.

• More Common in Men: The incidence rate in men is 2-3 times higher than in women.

• Peak Age of Incidence: 40-50 years: This is the age range where the risk of HCC increases significantly.

• 80% of HCC Patients have Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a major risk factor for HCC. Patients without cirrhosis usually have a single tumor.

6. Causes of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC):

• Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection: HCV is the most common cause of HCC.

• Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection: HBV is also a significant risk factor for HCC.

• Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to cirrhosis and HCC.

• Hemochromatosis: Patients with hemochromatosis have a higher risk of developing HCC.

• Long-term Oral Contraceptive Use: Long-term use of oral contraceptives can also increase the risk of HCC.

• Aflatoxin from Aspergillus flavus Fungus: Aflatoxin is a fungal toxin that can cause liver cancer.

7. Cirrhosis Grading:

Cirrhosis grading is based on the following indicators:

• Hepatic Encephalopathy: Decreased liver function leading to neurological disorders.

• Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.

• Total Bilirubin: This indicator reflects the liver’s ability to excrete bilirubin.

• Albumin: This indicator reflects the liver’s ability to synthesize proteins.

• INR: This indicator reflects the liver’s blood clotting ability.

8. CT Scan of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC):

• Contrast Enhancement: When using contrast agents, cancer cells will absorb the agent and show up on the CT image.

• Washout: After the contrast agent is excreted from the body, cancer cells will no longer absorb it.

9. Child-Pugh Classification:

The Child-Pugh classification is used to assess the liver condition of HCC patients:

• A: 5-6 points (mild condition)

• B: 7-9 points (moderate condition)

• C: 10-15 points (severe condition)

10. Paraneoplastic Syndrome in Liver Cancer:

This syndrome includes the following symptoms:

• Hypercoagulability: Abnormal increase in coagulation factors in the blood.

• Polycythemia: Increased red blood cell count in the blood.

• Hypoglycemia: Lower-than-normal blood sugar levels.

• Hypercalcemia: Elevated calcium levels in the blood.

Note:

• The above information is for reference only and should not replace professional medical advice.

• If you experience any unusual symptoms, consult a doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Additional Information:

• Liver cancer is a dangerous disease, but early treatment can increase survival rates.

• There are various treatment options for liver cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, liver transplantation, etc.

• The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the patient’s health condition, etc.

• A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding risk factors are effective preventive measures against liver cancer.