Liver Cancer

What is Liver Cancer?

Liver cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the liver cells (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) or bile ducts (cholangiocarcinoma). It is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Risk factors include chronic hepatitis B/C infections, cirrhosis, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity-related fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and genetic mutations (TP53, CTNNB1).

Why Choose Aster Hospitals?

Aster Hospitals leads in liver cancer care by integrating AI-driven diagnostics, targeted therapies, and minimally invasive procedures. Our specialists are pioneers in personalized transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radioembolization (TARE), improving survival rates for advanced cases. With liver transplant services, molecular profiling, and precision immunotherapy, Aster offers a comprehensive 360° care model, including post-treatment rehabilitation and mental health support.

Types of Liver Cancer

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) – Most common liver cancer, often linked to cirrhosis and viral hepatitis.
Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer) – Arises from the bile ducts, often diagnosed at late stages.
Fibrolamellar HCC – A rare variant affecting young adults without underlying liver disease.
Angiosarcoma/Hemangiosarcoma – Aggressive cancers of liver blood vessels, associated with toxic exposures.
Hepatoblastoma – A rare pediatric liver cancer affecting children under three years old.

Signs and Symptoms

Unexplained weight loss
Upper right abdominal pain
Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)
Abdominal swelling (ascites)
Loss of appetite and fatigue
Dark urine and pale stools

FAQ's

Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.

What are the main types of liver cancer?

There are two broad categories of liver cancer: primary and secondary. Primary liver cancer originates in the liver, while secondary liver cancer spreads from other parts of the body. The most common type of primary liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), also known as hepatoma.

What are the symptoms of liver cancer?

Common symptoms of liver cancer include weakness and tiredness, pain in the abdomen, swelling of the abdomen due to fluid buildup (ascites), pain in the right shoulder, appetite loss, feeling sick, weight loss, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), pale bowel motions, and fever.

How can liver cancer be prevented?

Many liver cancers could be prevented by reducing exposure to known risk factors. Key prevention strategies include avoiding hepatitis B and C infections through vaccination and safer practices, treating chronic hepatitis B and C infections, limiting alcohol consumption, and not smoking. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of liver cancer.

What are the risk factors for liver cancer?

The biggest known risk factor for primary liver cancer in Australia is chronic infection with hepatitis B or C viruses. Other risk factors include fatty liver disease, genetic disorders like haemochromatosis, type 2 diabetes, alcohol consumption, obesity, smoking tobacco, and exposure to certain chemicals.

How is liver cancer diagnosed?

Liver cancer diagnosis typically begins with a comprehensive physical exam and discussion of symptoms and medical history. Diagnostic procedures may include alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing, which is a tumor marker, and various imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and angiography. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be performed for a definitive diagnosis.