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Hepatoma, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a primary liver cancer that is often fatal and commonly found in underdeveloped countries. It is associated with chronic hepatitis B and C, liver scarring, and a family history of liver cancer. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss. Treatment options include liver transplant and surgical removal of tumors.
Hepatoma is sometimes called hepatocellular carcinoma. Both of these terms refer to a condition typically known as liver cancer. There are two types of liver cancer. Hepatoma is a primary cancer.
Many people don’t realize that liver cancers are divided into two types. Metastatic liver cancer involves a secondary infection. This means the cancer started elsewhere and later spread to the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma is so named because this type of cancer originates directly in the liver cells, making it a primary cancer.
Liver cancer is most commonly found in underdeveloped countries. For example, hepatoma can be found widely in parts of Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Most cases occur in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. It is typically fatal: Many people do not live more than a year after being diagnosed with the condition.
The exact causes of this type of cancer are not known. It has been noted, however, that where chronic hepatitis B and C are found, a large number of hepatoma cases are also generally found. Liver scarring — known as cirrhosis — caused by hepatitis B and C along with a family history of liver cancer is thought to increase a person’s chances of developing hepatoma.
A strong association was also found between this type of liver cancer and lifelong hepatitis B infection. Those who get hepatitis B later in life can develop liver cancer. It is less likely, however, than for those who have had the virus all their lives.
Liver cancer is often signaled by a physical exam. A doctor can often hear that a person’s liver is swollen or hard. When the liver is pressed, the sufferer will likely experience pain. In these cases, a blood test, CT scan, and liver biopsy commonly follow.
In many cases, by the time the hepatoma is discovered, it has already progressed beyond the point where an operation is possible. It is widely believed that the best option for hepatoma sufferers is to have a liver transplant. In some cases, however, when a single small tumor is found, surgical removal of the tumor is suggested. Other treatment techniques involve the removal of a lobe of the liver. These methods are often used to relieve pain and slow the progression of the disease, but they are not real cures.
The rate of progression and symptoms of hepatoma can vary. Many people who have this type of liver cancer experience abdominal pain and bloating. This pain can spread to the back. Sufferers may lose their appetite or start losing weight without explanation. Other symptoms include fatigue, fever and jaundice.
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