Cancer originating in the liver is relatively rare in this country. It occurs most often after the age of forty-five. It is more common in men than women. Causes of liver cancer are unknown, but it occurs most often in population groups with a high incidence of viral hepatitis (hep-ah-tie-tis), and certain other chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis (sa-row-sis). Liver cancer is often undiagnosed until an autopsy is performed after death because its symptoms are assumed to be a progression of cirrhosis or other pre-existing disease. Pain and a swelling in the upper abdomen are among the most common symptoms. Jaundice (jon-dis), a yellowish discoloration of the skin, may occur if a tumor is blocking a bile duct. Liver scans using radioactive tracers can locate tumor sites; a biopsy is required, however, to confirm a diagnosis of liver cancer. Until recently, liver cancer was almost always fatal within a few months. In recent years, the outlook has somewhat improved for patients with small, localized tumors that can be surgically removed. Remember, finding out right away that a cancer is growing gives you the best chance to be cured. For more information on liver cancer, consult your health care provider.
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