A liver tumor is a growth or mass that develops in the liver. Tumors in the liver can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign liver tumors are relatively common and are often discovered incidentally during medical imaging for another condition. They are generally not a cause for concern and do not typically require treatment.
Malignant liver tumors, on the other hand, can be serious and require prompt medical attention. There are several different types of malignant liver tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and metastatic liver cancer, which occurs when cancer cells from another part of the body spread to the liver.
Symptoms of a liver tumor can include abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice). However, in many cases, liver tumors do not cause any symptoms until they have grown quite large.
Diagnosis of a liver tumor usually involves a combination of imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, as well as blood tests and a liver biopsy. Treatment for a liver tumor will depend on the type and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. Options may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy.
Prevention of liver tumors involves taking steps to reduce the risk of underlying liver disease, such as hepatitis B and C, as well as reducing the risk of alcohol-related liver disease through moderation or abstinence from alcohol. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle and to follow screening guidelines for liver cancer if you are at higher risk.
