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The exact cause of primary liver cancer remains unclear. Cancer in the liver occurs when the organ's cells mutate to such a degree than rapid division of identical cells begins. Over time these cells grow into a tumor, the liver functions begin to deteriorate and the entire body is affected in a negative manner. Medical experts have linked chronic hepatitis to the development of liver cancer cells, but much more study is needed to explain this relationship.
Development of Primary Liver CancerSeveral different categories of liver cancer have been classified by the medical community. These are divided according to the location and type of cells that become cancerous. A hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of the disease. Hepatocytes are the cells making up the main tissue of the liver. Bile ducts are sometimes mutated, forming small tumors. This is known as cholangiocarcinoma. Liver cancer can also develop in the blood vessels supplying nutrients to the organ. This type of cancer is called angiosarcoma. Infants and toddlers sometimes become afflicted with a certain type of cancerous growth in the liver. This is called hepatoblastoma and its cause is unknown.
Risk Factors For Liver CancerAlthough reasons for the mutation of liver cells remains somewhat of a mystery there is a mound of evidence pointing to certain risk factors. Age is one of the primary factors where liver cancer is concerned. In most of the developed nations the disease is very rare in individuals under the age of 45. Also males are more likely to develop liver cancer than females. Genetics may also play a role in the likelihood of scar tissue development in the liver. Known as cirrhosis, this condition is irreversible and often leads to primary liver cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause damage to liver cells. Over a period of many years the cells will begin to undergo mutations and a malignant growth is possible.
Aflatoxins ExposureThis has become a widely discussed topic in recent years. Evidence has shown that these toxins, present in certain fungi contained in corn, peanuts and other crops can lead to serious liver damage. Many countries now require treatment of food crops to reduce levels of aflatoxins. Regular testing of food samples is required in the United States.
Other health problems such as Diabetes can also increase the chances of primary liver cancer. Excessive buildup of fatty acids in the liver is also noted as a risk factor for the disease.
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How does imaging help in diagnosing liver cancer?
Imaging studies are useful in locating specific areas of abnormal tissue in the liver.
What are the causes of liver cancer?
ya mam.. ] no im joking;) drinkkk
What happens to the liver kidney heart and lungs when you smoke?
It damages the liver,kidney heart & lung and causes cancer.
What causes a high white count and low platelets?
Liver cancer/ leukemia
Why are tobacco alcohol and ultraviolet radiation listed as carcinogens in the table?
Because prolongued exposure to all three substances can lead to cancer. Tobacco use causes lung cancer, alcohol causes cancer of the liver - and UV exposure causes melanoma and skin cancer.
Can hepatitis cause liver damage if not treated?
Yes. Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver and causes liver cell damage and destruction. If left untreated hepatitis will continue to damage the liver and can result in liver cancer, liver failure, and permanent liver damage called cirrhosis.
What are the causes of liver pain?
There could be many reasons to have liver pain. One could be an infection and another could be cancer. If one is suffering from liver pain, they should seek medical attention.
What is the most appropiate method of diagnosing testicular cancer?
TESTOSTERONE
What is the difference between liver cancer and liver cihrossis?
Liver cancer and liver cirrhosis are distinct medical conditions, but they can be interconnected. Here's an overview of each: Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma - HCC): Definition: Liver cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the liver. The most common form of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Causes: Chronic conditions like hepatitis B or C, liver cirrhosis, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain genetic disorders can increase the risk of liver cancer. Symptoms: Symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, and changes in appetite. Liver Cirrhosis: Definition: Liver cirrhosis is an advanced scarring of the liver tissue. It is often a result of long-term liver damage and inflammation. Causes: Chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis (B or C), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and autoimmune liver diseases are common causes of cirrhosis. Symptoms: Early stages may be asymptomatic, but as cirrhosis progresses, symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, easy bruising, swelling in the legs (edema), and confusion. Interconnection: Liver Cirrhosis as a Risk Factor for Liver Cancer: Cirrhosis increases the risk of developing liver cancer. Chronic liver damage and inflammation, often caused by conditions like hepatitis or excessive alcohol consumption, can lead to cirrhosis. In cirrhotic liver tissue, the risk of developing cancerous cells increases. Monitoring and Surveillance: Individuals with cirrhosis are often closely monitored for the development of liver cancer through routine imaging and screening tests.
Is hepatic liver cancer the same as heptaocellular carcinoma of the liver?
Yes, "hepatic liver cancer" and "hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) of the liver" are referring to the same condition. Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary liver cancer, and it specifically refers to cancer that begins in the hepatocytes, which are the main type of liver cells. "Hepatic" simply means "related to the liver," so "hepatic liver cancer" is another way to describe hepatocellular carcinoma or liver cancer that originates in the liver cells.
What is the difference between liver cancer and hepatomegaly?
Liver cancer and hepatomegaly are two distinct medical conditions that affect the liver, but they differ in their nature, causes, and implications. Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma or HCC): Nature: Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that originates in the liver cells. It is a primary cancer of the liver, meaning it starts in the liver itself. Causes: Liver cancer can develop as a result of various factors, including chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to certain toxins, and genetic factors. Chronic inflammation and damage to liver cells can increase the risk of liver cancer. Symptoms: Common symptoms of liver cancer may include abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, and abdominal swelling. Diagnosis: Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, as well as blood tests to measure liver function and check for tumor markers. A liver biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment: Treatment options for liver cancer include surgery to remove the tumor, liver transplantation, local therapies such as ablation or embolization, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of cancer and the patient's overall health. Hepatomegaly (Enlarged Liver): Nature: Hepatomegaly refers to an enlarged liver, which is a physical condition where the liver is larger than its normal size. Hepatomegaly itself is not a disease but a symptom or sign of an underlying health issue. Causes: There are numerous potential causes of hepatomegaly, including liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, infections (e.g., mononucleosis), certain medications, alcohol abuse, metabolic disorders, congestive heart failure, and cancer (which can include both primary liver cancer and metastatic cancer that has spread to the liver from other parts of the body). Symptoms: Hepatomegaly itself may not cause specific symptoms but can be associated with symptoms related to the underlying condition. These may include jaundice, abdominal pain or discomfort, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. Diagnosis: Hepatomegaly is typically diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), blood tests to evaluate liver function and identify potential causes, and other diagnostic procedures as needed. Treatment: Treatment of hepatomegaly focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Depending on the underlying condition, treatment may include lifestyle changes (e.g., managing diabetes or alcohol consumption), medications, antiviral therapy (for hepatitis), or surgical interventions if necessary. In summary, liver cancer (HCC) is a malignant tumor originating in the liver cells, whereas hepatomegaly is the enlargement of the liver and is a symptom of an underlying condition, which can include liver cancer. Both conditions require medical evaluation and appropriate management, with liver cancer often necessitating specific cancer-directed treatments.
What is the radioisotope l - 131 used for?
Diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer.
