Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer that starts in the main cells of the liver called hepatocytes. It primarily affects the liver, an organ essential for filtering toxins, producing bile, and managing nutrients. This cancer often develops in people with chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis infections. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes. The disease can interfere with the liver's ability to function properly, leading to serious health problems. Early detection is challenging because symptoms often appear late. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and liver function.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary malignant tumor of the liver arising from hepatocytes. It most commonly develops in the setting of chronic liver injury and cirrhosis, frequently caused by chronic hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol abuse, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The pathogenesis involves genetic and epigenetic alterations leading to uncontrolled hepatocyte proliferation and tumor formation. HCC is clinically significant due to its aggressive nature, potential for vascular invasion, and poor prognosis if untreated. It often presents with right upper quadrant pain, weight loss, and signs of liver dysfunction. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) elevation is a common tumor marker. Imaging typically reveals a hypervascular liver mass with characteristic arterial enhancement and venous washout.