Kidney or Liver Tumour

Liver Tumors

Liver Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant liver tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma, are often associated with liver cirrhosis or hepatitis B/C infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing liver tumors effectively.

Treatment

Treatment for liver tumors depends on the type and stage of the tumor, liver function, and overall health. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Involves removing part of the liver containing the tumor (resection), typically for smaller tumors in patients with good liver function.
• Liver Transplant: Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy one, typically used in cases of advanced liver cancer.
• Ablation Therapy: Uses heat or cold to destroy cancer cells, especially for smaller tumors or patients unable to undergo surgery.
• Targeted Therapy: Blocks the growth of cancer cells by targeting specific proteins involved in tumor development.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system’s ability to attack liver cancer cells.

A multi-disciplinary approach is often required, combining surgery, systemic therapies, and supportive care.

Types of Liver Tumors

• Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The most common type of primary liver cancer, often linked to chronic liver disease and cirrhosis.
• Cholangiocarcinoma: Also known as bile duct cancer, it arises in the bile ducts of the liver and is often diagnosed at later stages.
• Benign Liver Tumors: Non-cancerous growths like hepatic adenomas or hemangiomas, usually detected incidentally and rarely requiring treatment.

Common Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Swelling in the abdomen (ascites)

Diagnosis

Diagnosing liver tumors typically involves:

• Imaging Studies: Such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess the size and location of the tumor.
• Blood Tests: To check for liver function and detect tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the tumor for further examination to confirm the diagnosis.