Dr Mayank Gurjar - Best Liver Cancer Specialist in Ahmedabad
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, originates in the liver, an essential organ responsible for various functions including detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which typically develops in the context of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Early detection of liver cancer is crucial for effective treatment and management.
Symptoms and Diagnostic Approaches
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary but often include persistent abdominal pain, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation. Regular screening is essential for early detection, especially for individuals over the age of 45 or those with a family history of the disease. Common screening methods include colonoscopy, stool tests, and imaging tests.
Symptoms and Diagnostic Approaches
Symptoms of liver cancer can be subtle and may include abdominal pain, swelling, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite. Because these symptoms can overlap with other liver conditions, diagnosis often involves several tests. Key diagnostic methods include imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI, as well as blood tests to identify tumor markers and assess liver function. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
Treatment Options
- Surgery: Surgical options may include partial hepatectomy (removal of part of the liver) or liver transplantation for eligible patients.
- Ablation Therapy: Techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation destroy tumors using heat.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to target and kill cancer cells, often administered systemically or directly into the liver.
- Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific pathways involved in cancer growth, offering a more precise approach to treatment.
- Immunotherapy: Utilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells, providing a novel approach to treatment.