Liver Cancer Treatment
Symptoms of Liver Cancer
Symptoms of liver cancer are often subtle in the initial stages but become more pronounced
as the disease progresses. Key symptoms include:
1. Persistent Abdominal Pain:
– Located in the upper right side of the abdomen or around the shoulder blade.
2. Unexplained Weight Loss:
– Significant and rapid loss of body weight without dietary changes.
3. Loss of Appetite:
– Reduced interest in food, leading to malnutrition.
4. Fatigue and Weakness:
– Constant tiredness, even with minimal exertion.
5. Jaundice:
– Yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by bile accumulation.
6. Swelling in the Abdomen:
– Caused by fluid buildup (ascites) or an enlarged liver.
7. Dark Urine and Pale Stools:
– Indications of impaired liver function.
8. Nausea and Vomiting:
– Frequent episodes of digestive discomfort.
Causes and Risk Factors
The development of liver cancer is influenced by various factors, including lifestyle,
infections, and pre-existing liver conditions. Major causes and risk factors are:
1. Chronic Hepatitis Infections:
– Long-term infections with Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV).
2. Liver Cirrhosis:
– Scarring of the liver from alcohol abuse, hepatitis, or other liver diseases.
3. Fatty Liver Disease:
– Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is emerging as a significant risk factor.
4. Alcohol and Tobacco Use:
– Prolonged consumption increases liver damage.
5. Aflatoxin Contamination:
– Exposure to mold-contaminated grains and nuts.
6. Metabolic Disorders:
– Obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance.
7. Family History:
– Genetic predisposition plays a role in liver cancer development.
Diagnostic Techniques
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective liver cancer treatment. Common
diagnostic methods include:
1. Imaging Tests:
– Ultrasound, CT, and MRI Scans: Identify tumors, their size, and spread.
2. Blood Tests:
– Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP): Elevated levels indicate liver cancer.
– Liver function tests assess the organ’s health.
3. Biopsy:
– Tissue sampling confirms cancerous cells in suspicious areas.
4. Elastography:
– Measures liver stiffness, useful for detecting fibrosis or cirrhosis.
5. Liver Scan with Contrast Agents:
– Highlights abnormal areas in the liver.
Treatment Options for Liver Cancer
Treatment depends on the cancer stage, liver functionality, and overall health. Dr. Tanmay
Pareek employs state-of-the-art techniques, including:
1. Surgical Resection:
– Removal of the affected liver portion, preserving healthy tissue.
2. Liver Transplant:
– Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy donor organ.
3. Ablative Therapies:
– Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Heat-based destruction of cancer cells.
– Microwave Ablation (MWA): Advanced heat therapy for localized tumors.
4. Targeted Therapy:
– Drugs like sorafenib and lenvatinib block cancer cell growth pathways.
5. Immunotherapy:
– Enhances the immune system to fight cancer effectively.
6. Transarterial Therapies:
– TACE (Chemoembolization): Combines chemotherapy with restricted tumor blood supply.
– TARE (Radioembolization): Injects radioactive beads into cancerous areas.
7. Radiation Therapy:
– Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): Precisely targets liver tumors.
Prevention of Liver Cancer
Preventing liver cancer involves addressing the underlying risk factors:
1. Hepatitis Vaccination:
– Immunization against Hepatitis B.
2. Early Treatment of Liver Diseases:
– Managing hepatitis, fatty liver, or cirrhosis to reduce complications.
3. Avoiding Toxins:
– Proper food storage to prevent aflatoxin exposure.
4. Limiting Alcohol and Tobacco Use:
– Reduces liver strain and damage.
5. Healthy Weight Management:
– Regular exercise and a balanced diet.
6. Routine Screenings:
– High-risk individuals should undergo regular imaging and AFP tests.
Recovery and Post-Treatment Care
Post-treatment care is vital for recovery and preventing recurrence. Key components
include:
1. Nutrition and Diet:
– High-protein, low-fat meals to support liver regeneration.
2. Follow-Up Appointments:
– Routine imaging and blood tests to monitor for new tumors.
3. Physical Rehabilitation:
– Gradual exercise to regain strength and stamina.
4. Psychological Support:
– Counseling to address emotional and mental health challenges.
5. Lifestyle Changes:
– Avoid alcohol, fatty foods, and smoking to protect the liver.
Dr. Tanmay Pareek’s expertise in GI Oncosurgery and Gastroenterology ensures that
patients receive world-class care for liver cancer. With access to advanced diagnostic tools,
personalized treatment plans, and a compassionate approach, he is dedicated to improving
outcomes for patients in Jaipur and beyond.
