Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
Hepatocellular cancers (HCCs) are the most common type of liver cancer. Unresectable HCC (UHCC) is a form of HCC that cannot be completely removed through surgery. It is usually considered advanced stage cancer that has spread to other areas of the body. UHCC is associated with a poor prognosis and a reduced survival rate.
Causes
The exact cause of UHCC is not known, although many risk factors have been identified that are associated with developing HCC. These include:
- Chronic infection with the hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus, which are the two major causes of HCC worldwide.
- Cirrhosis, a condition in which the liver does not function properly due to long-term damage.
- Alcohol abuse.
- A family history of liver cancer.
- Exposure to aflatoxin, a toxic substance produced by certain fungi.
- Diabetes.
- Obesity.
- Exposure to certain industrial chemicals.
Symptoms
UHCC generally does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, it can cause certain signs and symptoms, including:
- Fatigue.
- Weight loss.
- Loss of appetite.
- Fever.
- Abdominal pain.
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of UHCC may be confirmed with the following tests:
- Blood tests (liver function, tumor markers).
- Imaging scans (CT, MRI, PET, ultrasound).
- Biopsy (tissue sampling).
Treatment
UHCC is very difficult to treat, as it cannot be removed surgically. Treatment options include:
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiation therapy.
- Targeted therapy (drugs that are designed to specifically target cancer cells).
- Immunotherapy (drugs that stimulate the body’s own immune system to attack cancer cells).
- Radiofrequency ablation (destroying tumors with heat).
- Cryotherapy (destroying tumors with cold).
- Liver transplant (in very rare cases).
Prognosis
The prognosis for UHCC depends on the size and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. Overall, UHCC has a relatively poor prognosis, with a five-year survival rate of only 8-20%.