Why You Should Get A Liver Cancer Screening?
Liver cancer, or hepatic cancer, originates in liver cells, primarily in hepatocytes (the main type of liver cell), and is known as hepatocellular carcinoma. Other types include cholangiocarcinoma, which begins in the bile ducts, and angiosarcoma, which forms in blood vessels within the liver. The liver, a crucial organ in the upper right abdomen, plays a vital role in detoxifying harmful substances, producing essential proteins, and aiding digestion. Because liver cancer symptoms are often subtle, early detection through regular screening is essential, especially for high-risk individuals. Bowie Internal Medicine offers liver cancer screenings in Bowie Maryland.
Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer symptoms may be mild or nonspecific in the early stages, becoming more noticeable as the disease progresses. Common signs include:
Unexplained Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss without effort.
Loss of Appetite: Persistent lack of interest in eating or feeling full after small amounts.
Upper Abdominal Pain: Discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
Abdominal Swelling: Often due to fluid build-up, known as ascites.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness and weakness.
Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent nausea or vomiting.
Enlarged Liver or Spleen: A noticeable bulge under the rib cage.
Itchy Skin: Often due to bile salts depositing under the skin.
Early detection significantly improves the prognosis and treatment options for liver cancer. Regular screenings are recommended for those with chronic liver conditions or a family history of liver cancer.
Liver Diseases That Could Lead to Liver Cancer
Certain liver conditions increase the risk of developing liver cancer, such as:
Hepatitis B and C Infections: Chronic infection can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis.
Cirrhosis: Severe liver scarring, often due to alcohol abuse, fatty liver disease, or hepatitis, increases cancer risk.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excess liver fat can cause inflammation, leading to cirrhosis and cancer risk.
Inherited Liver Diseases: Conditions like hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency also increase liver cancer risk.
When Should You Get Screened for Liver Cancer?
Screening for liver cancer is based on individual risk factors rather than age alone. High-risk individuals, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or a family history of liver cancer, should begin screening earlier. Men with hepatitis B are often advised to start screening at age 40, and women at age 50. For individuals with cirrhosis, screening should begin immediately upon diagnosis, regardless of age, typically through ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood tests. Discussing a personalized screening plan with a healthcare provider is essential.
How Treatable is Liver Cancer if Caught Early?
Early detection significantly improves treatability, providing options like:
Surgical Resection: Removal of the tumor and some surrounding tissue, often suitable for patients with a single tumor and healthy liver function.
Liver Transplantation: Offers a potential cure for early-stage patients without widespread disease, though a suitable donor is needed.
Localized Therapies: Options like radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) target cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue.
These treatments can improve survival rates and quality of life when liver cancer is diagnosed early.
How Long Can Liver Cancer Go Untreated?
Untreated liver cancer often progresses aggressively, with median survival for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranging from several months to a year. However, this can vary depending on factors like cancer type, patient health, and underlying liver conditions. Without treatment, liver cancer can lead to serious complications, including liver failure, internal bleeding, and spread to other organs. Early detection and intervention are crucial to improve outcomes and manage liver cancer effectively. Regular screening and monitoring are essential for those at high risk to detect the disease in its more manageable stages.
Liver Cancer Screenings in Bowie Maryland
Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating digestive or gastroenterology you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information about treating polyps, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.