Signs Of Liver Cancer

30 May, 2024

Dr. Rajesh Bollam

In actuality, most liver cancers don't show any symptoms at all. Actually, they are typically discovered by chance during an MRI, CT scan, or abdominal ultrasound performed for other intra-abdominal conditions. The most typical warning signs that people experience when they have liver cancer are given below.

Right-sided Pain in the Abdomen:

The liver lacks nerve tissue in and of itself, but the Glissonean capsule, a thin layer of skin that covers the liver, is packed with nerve fibers. These nerve fibers are mechanically stretched, which causes abdominal pain. Abdominal discomfort is therefore experienced when a liver tumor grows and subsequently puts pressure or strain on the Glissonean capsule. It normally feels like a dull, constant aching that is unrelated to eating, and in women, it might radiate to the right back along the "bra line." Abdominal pain is more often to be caused by liver tumors that are subcapsular, or near to the capsule, but tumors that are deeply placed are less likely to do so.

Abdominal Mass or Lump:

Liver tumors or liver cancer can grow to a significant size before causing noticeable symptoms. Feeling a mass or lump in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, especially when lying down, can be a sign of a large liver tumor. However, in obese individuals, the presence of excess abdominal fat can make it more difficult to detect such masses during a physical examination. This is why a thorough examination by a liver surgeon or healthcare professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Pain in the right shoulder:

Patients with liver cancer or tumors pressing against the right diaphragm frequently describe this symptom. Referred pain impulses are transported from the right diaphragm to the right shoulder region via the phrenic vein. Right shoulder pain can be brought on by anything that irritates the right diaphragm, including liver tumors, subdiaphragmatic infections, inflammations, and abscesses. Many individuals show up to a liver surgeon without any indication of a bone fracture and with a normal right shoulder x-ray.

Jaundice

It's important to note that jaundice can also be caused by other liver diseases, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, as well as by conditions affecting the bile ducts. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in such cases.

Itching:

When bile ducts are obstructed, the buildup of bile acids can indeed lead to intense itching, known as pruritus. It can be challenging to manage, but there are treatments available, such as medications to reduce bile acid levels or relieve itching.

Unintentional weight loss

Unintentional weight loss is a common symptom of liver cancer, as it is with many other cancers. The production of enzymes by tumor cells can indeed lead to a variety of symptoms that contribute to this weight loss.

Bloating:

As a liver tumor grows, it can press on nearby organs, including the stomach. This pressure can lead to symptoms like bloating, nausea, and discomfort, especially after eating. It's important for individuals experiencing these symptoms, especially if they are persistent or severe, to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management.

Shortness of Breath:

Liver cancer, especially when it grows large or is located in certain areas, can lead to shortness of breath. This can happen due to physical limitation of the diaphragm's movement or irritation of the diaphragm and surrounding structures. It's important for individuals experiencing shortness of breath to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Generalized Fatique:

Generalized fatigue, along with weight loss, malaise, and failure to thrive, can all be symptoms of liver cancer. Cachexin, a protein produced by cancer cells, is thought to play a role in these symptoms by affecting cellular functions in the body.

Fever:

When the biliary tree is obstructed, it can lead to stagnant bile flow, which can cause an infection called cholangitis. Fever, along with chills and rigors, is a common symptom of cholangitis. This is a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention.

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Signs Of Liver Cancer

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