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Liver cancer
How is liver cancer diagnosed?
In clinical practice, if a patient has a history of chronic hepatitis B and imaging tests, such as an enhanced CT or MRI of the liver, suggest a radiological appearance of liver cancer, combined with an AFP level greater than 400 persisting for four weeks, these conditions can support a clinical diagnosis of liver cancer. However, for a confirmed diagnosis, a liver biopsy guided by ultrasound or CT must be performed. The definitive diagnosis of liver cancer relies on identifying cancer cells through pathological examination.
What to do if vomiting occurs in liver cancer?
Liver cancer is divided into two main pathological types, the first being hepatocellular carcinoma, which is the most common, and the other being cholangiocellular carcinoma. Clinically, vomiting is also a common symptom of liver cancer. For symptomatic treatment, we can provide gastric protection and administer antiemetic drugs such as stomach comfort, but these are only symptomatic treatments and do not cure the root cause. The key is still to treat the liver cancer itself, as the symptoms will only alleviate once the cancer is under control. For advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, targeted therapies like sorafenib are available. If it is cholangiocellular carcinoma, and symptoms like vomiting and jaundice appear, which may be obstructive symptoms, then a surgical procedure in hepato-biliary surgery to drain the bile can be performed, which can also alleviate the symptoms of vomiting. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)
The difference between primary liver cancer and secondary liver cancer
Primary liver cancer, also commonly referred to as liver cancer, originates in the liver itself and is not transferred from other parts of the body. Secondary liver cancer occurs when the primary tumor originates in another location and then metastasizes to the liver, causing hepatic space-occupying lesions; this is referred to as secondary liver cancer. The main difference between the two types is their origin. Additionally, primary liver cancer is often solitary but may develop intrahepatic or distant metastases as the disease progresses. In cases of secondary liver cancer, multiple intrahepatic metastatic lesions may be discovered at the onset. Moreover, primary liver cancer may often display an elevated alpha-fetoprotein tumor marker, whereas this marker might be normal in secondary liver cancer.
Can primary liver cancer be treated?
Primary liver cancer is also treatable. Generally, if the primary liver cancer is small and has not widely metastasized, surgical resection can be considered, mainly involving hepatectomy and lymph node dissection. Postoperative comprehensive treatment including chemotherapy and radiotherapy is also applied. For primary liver cancer, interventional chemotherapy, as well as methods like cryotherapy, microwave, and ablation can be considered to control the progression of the disease. Additionally, oral targeted therapy such as sorafenib can be used. If primary liver cancer is widely metastasized at the time of detection, there generally aren’t very effective treatment options, and the average survival period might be around six months, with poor treatment outcomes.
Can primary liver cancer patients eat eggs?
Patients with primary liver cancer can also eat eggs, as there are no specific prohibitions against it. Eggs are a high-protein food. While many people worry that eating eggs might increase the burden on the liver, there is actually no need for concern. If a patient has a good appetite and can eat well, consuming some eggs to increase protein intake can help enhance body resistance and support antitumor treatment. In addition to eggs, liver cancer patients should also consume other high-quality proteins such as fish and protein powder. These are all beneficial. Of course, the choice should also be based on the patient's own preferences. Additionally, it is advisable to drink plenty of water and eat fresh vegetables and fruits.
What can people with primary liver cancer eat?
Primary liver cancer, commonly referred to as liver cancer, is a type of malignant tumor of the digestive system. As for diet, there are generally no specific prohibitions. However, it is recommended to stick to a light and easily digestible diet. High-protein foods and high-quality proteins, such as fish, eggs, and protein powder, are very good options. It is best to avoid spicy, pickled, smoked, or grilled foods, as these are not conducive to health. Also, any food that is clearly moldy should definitely be avoided. The main causes of primary liver cancer include infection with aflatoxin and contaminated drinking water, which are two main causes of primary liver cancer. Other causes, like hepatitis virus infections, are also major contributors to primary liver cancer.
Can an MRI detect liver cancer?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can detect liver cancer. MRI has a high resolution for soft tissues and can multi-dimensionally present the water content and fat content in liver cancer, producing specific signals. MRI can clearly show the size, signal, shape, and the surrounding tissues of liver cancer. It can even detect small liver cancers as tiny as three millimeters and is a preferred method of imaging, more precise than CT.
Will "small three yang" lead to liver cancer?
Hepatitis B "minor three positives" refers to positivity in the first, fourth, and fifth items of the complete hepatitis B panel. It is common among patients with acute and chronic hepatitis B. There is no necessary correlation between "minor three positives" and cancer. While some patients with "minor three positives" may develop liver cancer, not all liver cancer patients necessarily progress from this condition, indicating no inevitable link between the two.
Early symptoms of primary liver cancer
Primary liver cancer often shows no obvious symptoms in its early stages. It may present symptoms similar to indigestion, hepatitis, etc. For example, there might be slight discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen, aversion to oil, or loss of appetite. Generally, regular health check-ups are needed, including imaging studies of the liver such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI. Liver function tests and tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should also be performed. In most cases of primary liver cancer, AFP levels will be elevated. Combined with imaging studies, a preliminary diagnosis can be made. A definitive diagnosis requires liver biopsy or confirmation through pathology after surgery.