Understanding Liver Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Discover essential information about liver cancer, including its causes, symptoms, and diagnostic methods. Early detection through imaging, blood tests, and biopsies can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Understand the risk factors and signs to seek prompt medical attention and improve survival chances with timely intervention.
Understanding Liver Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Liver cancer ranks among the most serious health conditions worldwide. It primarily develops within the liver but can metastasize to other organs. This disease involves abnormal growths caused by mutated liver tissues. Also called hepatic or primary liver cancer, it begins inside the liver, unlike metastatic cancer that spreads from elsewhere. The liver, roughly the size of a football, is one of the body's largest organs, situated beneath the right lung behind the ribcage. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and genetic factors are common causes.
Mutations in liver cells' DNA trigger cancer development. These genetic changes disrupt normal cell functions, leading to uncontrolled growth and tumor formation. Diagnosing liver cancer involves imaging techniques like CT or MRI scans, blood tests for alpha-fetoprotein levels, and tissue biopsies. Prompt medical attention upon noticing symptoms increases survival chances. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to better outcomes.
