Answer:

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of primary liver cancer. The severity of the disease depends not only on the tumor's size, number, and spread but also on the patient's liver function and overall health.

In its early stage, the disease often presents no specific symptoms and may be discovered incidentally during routine check-ups. As it progresses, the tumor can cause right upper quadrant pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal distension.

Many cases of liver cancer develop against a backdrop of chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis. When liver function declines, patients may experience jaundice, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, or hepatorenal syndrome.

Doctor Vu advises a patient. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Cirrhosis and portal vein invasion by the tumor can lead to portal hypertension, which in turn causes esophageal or gastric varices. When these varices rupture, patients may experience vomiting blood, passing black stools, or a drop in blood pressure, posing a life-threatening risk. The tumor can also invade or compress the bile ducts, leading to jaundice, itching, dark urine, or cholangitis.

The prognosis depends on several factors, including the tumor stage, liver function, and the patient's general health. If detected early, some cases can be treated with curative intent through hepatectomy or liver transplantation. Additionally, patients may undergo tumor ablation.

Beyond focusing on nutritional supplementation, you should seek medical consultation for appropriate treatment. Delaying treatment is not advisable, as advanced liver cancer becomes difficult to treat, reducing the survival prognosis.

Individuals with chronic hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or chronic liver disease need to manage their underlying conditions and have regular follow-ups. If symptoms such as sudden vomiting of blood, passing black stools, severe abdominal pain, shock or fainting, rapidly worsening jaundice, or altered consciousness appear, patients should go to the hospital for examination.

Doctor Doan Manh Tien Vu

Liver Surgery Unit, Department of Surgical Oncology

Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM