There are several rare types of primary carcinoma of the liver, including fibrolamellar carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatoblastoma and angiosarcoma. The most common primary liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma, which, according to the Merck Online Medical Library, is responsible for approximately 14,000 deaths each year in the United States.
Definition
Primary carcinoma of the liver is cancer that begins in the liver. Cancer that starts in other organs and spreads to the liver is called metastatic liver cancer.
Facts
According to MedlinePlus.com, hepatocellular carcinoma is more prevalent in men than women and usually emerges between the ages of 50 and 60. It is more common in areas of Asia and Africa than in the United States.
Causes
Liver cancer is usually caused by cirrhosis, a disease characterized by increased scarring of the liver. Cirrhosis is caused by certain autoimmune diseases, hepatitis, medical conditions which cause persistent liver inflammation and alcohol abuse.
Symptoms
Early signs of liver cancer are fairly vague, resulting in delayed diagnosis in many cases. Symptoms include pain in the abdomen, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), abdominal swelling, easy bleeding and increased bruising.
Treatment
With early diagnosis, aggressive surgical intervention or a liver transplant may be recommended. Radiation and chemotherapy may be effective in shrinking large tumors, and a new oral medication called sorafenib toslate may be used to inhibit tumor growth.
Tags: carcinoma liver, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver cancer, United States