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Liver cancer is a disease where cancer cells develop in the liver, the largest organ inside your body that helps digest food, store energy, and remove toxins. When cancer starts in the liver, it is called primary liver cancer. The most common type of primary liver cancer in adults is hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer can also form in the bile ducts, which are tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine; this is called bile duct cancer or cholangiocarcinoma. Sometimes, cancer from other parts of the body spreads to the liver, which is called secondary or metastatic liver cancer.
Liver cancer can be serious because it often does not cause symptoms until it is advanced, making early detection difficult. Certain health conditions increase the risk of liver cancer, such as chronic hepatitis B or C infections, heavy alcohol use, liver scarring (cirrhosis), inherited diseases like hemochromatosis, obesity, and diabetes. Understanding these risks can help patients and caregivers recognize the importance of screening and monitoring liver health, especially if there is a history of liver disease or risk factors.
Symptoms of liver cancer may include pain or a lump on the right side of the abdomen and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). However, many people do not notice symptoms early on. Patients might hear terms like hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or aflatoxin during discussions about liver cancer risk. These terms relate to infections or exposures that can harm the liver and increase cancer risk. Knowing these terms can help patients ask questions and understand their health better.
Doctors use blood tests and imaging scans to detect and diagnose liver cancer. Sometimes, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer and may include surgery to remove part of the liver, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or liver transplantation. Treatment for children with liver cancer can differ from adults. Because liver cancer can be linked to other liver diseases, managing those conditions is also important during care.
Hearing the term liver cancer does not always mean the same thing for every person. For example, cancer that started elsewhere and spread to the liver is different from cancer that began in the liver. Also, having risk factors like hepatitis does not guarantee liver cancer will develop. Each patient’s situation is unique, so it is important to discuss what liver cancer means in their specific case with their healthcare team.
Patients and caregivers can ask about the type of liver cancer, how it was diagnosed, what tests are needed, and what treatment options are available. It is helpful to ask how liver health and any other conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis affect treatment choices. Understanding the goals of treatment and possible side effects can also guide decisions and planning.
This information is meant to help you understand liver cancer broadly. It does not replace personalized medical advice. If you see the term liver cancer in a report, test result, or treatment plan, ask your healthcare provider what it means for your care. This helps avoid confusion and ensures you get the right information for your situation.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with or at risk for liver cancer, talk openly with your healthcare team. Ask about screening for hepatitis and liver health, treatment options, and support services. Early involvement and clear communication can help you make informed decisions and get the care that fits your needs.
Public source information used for this glossary entry includes: