Liver Tumors (Benign and Malignant)

What Are Liver Tumors?

Liver tumors are abnormal growths in the liver. These can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The liver is one of the largest organs in the body and plays a critical role in digestion, metabolism, and detoxification. Tumors in the liver can interfere with these vital functions, especially if they grow or spread.

Liver tumors may develop within the liver itself (primary liver tumors) or may spread to the liver from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic liver tumors).

Types of Liver Tumors

Benign (Non-cancerous) Liver Tumors:

These usually do not spread or cause significant symptoms and are often found incidentally during scans.

• Hemangioma: The most common benign liver tumor, made up of blood vessels. Usually harmless.
• Hepatic adenoma: Linked to hormone use (e.g., oral contraceptives) and may require removal if large.
• Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH): A benign tumor often found in young women. Typically does not need treatment.
   

Malignant (Cancerous) Liver Tumors:

Primary Liver Cancer:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): The most common type, often associated with chronic liver disease (e.g., hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis).
• Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer): A rare cancer that affects the bile ducts inside or outside the liver.
• Hepatoblastoma: A rare liver cancer seen in children.
   

Secondary (Metastatic) Liver Cancer:

• These cancers originate elsewhere (such as the colon, breast, or lung) and spread to the liver. Metastatic liver tumors are more common than primary liver cancers.

Causes and Risk Factors

Risk factors for primary liver cancer include:

• Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
• Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins from moldy food)
• Family history of liver cancer
• Obesity and diabetes
• Certain genetic conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis)

Symptoms of Liver Tumors

Many liver tumors, especially in the early stages, cause no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Abdominal swelling or bloating
• A lump or fullness under the right rib cage

Diagnosis

Liver tumors are diagnosed through a combination of:

• Physical examination and history
• Blood tests: Including liver function tests and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a tumor marker often elevated in liver cancer
• Ultrasound: A first-line imaging tool
• CT scan or MRI: To better visualize liver lesions and determine tumor size and spread
• Liver biopsy: Sometimes performed to confirm the diagnosis, though not always necessary in typical cases of HCC
• PET scan: May be used to detect metastasis in certain cases

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as liver function and overall health.

Benign Tumors

• Often require no treatment unless they are large, growing, or causing symptoms.
• Surgical removal may be considered for hepatic adenomas due to risk of rupture or cancer transformation.

Malignant Tumors

1. Surgical Resection:

Removal of the tumor and part of the liver. Best option for small, localized tumors in a healthy liver.

2. Liver Transplant:

Considered for patients with early-stage liver cancer and severe liver disease. Offers potential cure.

3. Ablation Therapy:

Techniques like radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation destroy tumors using heat or cold, suitable for small tumors.

4. Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE):

A targeted therapy where chemotherapy is delivered directly to the tumor through liver arteries.

5. Systemic Therapy:

Includes targeted drugs (e.g., sorafenib, lenvatinib) and immunotherapy (e.g., nivolumab, atezolizumab) for advanced-stage liver cancer.

6. Radiation Therapy:

Less commonly used, but may be an option in selected patients.

7. Chemotherapy:

Generally more useful in secondary (metastatic) liver cancer.

Prevention

• Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
• Screen and treat hepatitis C
• Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight and manage diabetes
• Limit exposure to harmful chemicals and aflatoxins
• Regular monitoring if you have liver disease or are at high risk

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Liver Tumor Care?

Aster Hospitals provide advanced, multidisciplinary care for liver tumors through a team of expert hepatologists, gastroenterologists, oncologists, and liver surgeons. We offer a full spectrum of diagnostic imaging and liver function testing to ensure accurate evaluation and staging. Treatment options include minimally invasive surgery, ablation techniques, and liver transplantation, tailored to each patient’s needs. Our dedicated liver cancer boards facilitate collaborative case discussions for optimal treatment planning. Comprehensive care is further supported by nutritional guidance, psychological counseling, and ongoing supportive services to enhance overall well-being and recovery.