Hepatoduodenal ligament

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer in adults and is the most common cause of death in people with cirrhosis.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

HCC usually arises in the context of chronic liver disease, particularly in patients with hepatitis B and hepatitis C, cirrhosis, and alcoholism. Other risk factors include aflatoxin exposure, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hemochromatosis.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

The pathogenesis of HCC is a complex process that includes the interaction of genetic and epigenetic alterations, viral factors, and the tumor microenvironment. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed that chronic inflammation leads to fibrosis and cirrhosis, which then predisposes to the development of HCC.

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Patients with HCC may present with a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice. However, many patients are asymptomatic and the tumor is discovered incidentally during imaging studies for other reasons.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of HCC is usually made based on imaging studies, such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment of HCC depends on the stage of the disease, the patient's overall health, and the function of the remaining liver tissue. Treatment options include surgical resection, liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and systemic therapy with sorafenib or other targeted agents.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis of HCC is generally poor, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 20%. However, early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival.