Over the past several years, liver cancer has been the number one cancer among Thais. Each year, there are approximately 22,000 new cases of liver and bile duct cancer, with over 16,000 deaths. The two most common types of liver cancer found in Thailand are hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma.
Not only in Thailand, liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC) is also the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with a relatively high mortality rate. However, these alarming numbers can actually be reduced through lifestyle changes and liver cancer surveillance via screening.
Causes of Liver Cancer
Liver cancer arises mainly from two causes: cancer originating directly in the liver and cancer that spreads from other organs. Most primary liver cancers develop from cirrhosis caused by various factors, including hepatitis B virus infection, liver fluke infestation, and alcohol consumption. Additionally, low immunity or genetic factors also play a role.
Stages of Liver Cancer: Early Detection Leads to Better Recovery
Liver cancer is divided into 5 stages as follows:
- Stage 1 A single small tumor no larger than 2 centimeters. If detected at this stage, there is good news as it can be treated easily.
- Stage 2 Up to 3 tumors, each smaller than 3 centimeters. This stage is still curable.
- Stage 3 Multiple tumors larger than those in stage 2.
- Stage 4 Large tumors that invade surrounding liver tissue, spread into the abdominal veins, nearby lymph nodes, or metastasize through the bloodstream to other organs. Surgery is required at this stage.
- Stage 5 The patient is severely debilitated, mostly bedridden, and liver function is significantly impaired.
Warning Signs of Liver Cancer Not to Be Overlooked
In the early stages, liver cancer may show no symptoms, but signs such as loss of appetite, bloating, abdominal pain, epigastric discomfort, abdominal distension, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, weight loss, jaundice, and pain in the right rib area may occur. A lump may be felt in that area upon palpation.
Is It Liver Cancer? The Earlier the Detection, the Better the Treatment
Among the 5 stages mentioned, stages 1-2 usually show few symptoms, with tumor sizes not exceeding 3 centimeters, and are curable. Therefore, the earlier the detection, the easier the treatment. Patients diagnosed at stage 3 or beyond also have a chance of cure, but treatment takes longer and in some cases, complete cure is difficult.
Diagnostic Methods for Liver Cancer
Liver cancer can be diagnosed through various methods. Sometimes, doctors use multiple tests for the most accurate diagnosis, including:
- Radiological examinations such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or contrast-enhanced imaging by injecting contrast dye into the arteries to locate liver cancer.
- Blood test for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, a substance produced by this type of liver cancer, which is elevated in liver cancer patients.
Liver Cancer Can Be Treated with Laparoscopic Surgery
Currently, there are several treatment options for liver cancer depending on the doctor’s assessment and the patient’s condition. If the liver is still functioning well, the cancer is in early to intermediate stages with tumors not exceeding 5 centimeters and no spread to other organs, surgery offers the best outcome.
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery performed through small incisions in the abdomen. It is widely accepted and popular among doctors worldwide because it involves less blood loss, less pain, and shorter recovery time.
The advantages of laparoscopic surgery for liver cancer include reducing complications associated with major surgery, such as difficulty moving and walking, wound dehiscence, and bowel obstruction, which are long-term problems for many patients. This is because laparoscopic surgery causes less trauma to internal organs compared to open surgery.
Moreover, laparoscopic surgery is effective for treating various cancers including liver cancer, colorectal cancer, early to intermediate stomach cancer, uterine and ovarian cancers, and other gynecological cancers. Surgeons must be skilled in laparoscopic techniques and proficient in using cameras and instruments. At Phyathai 2 Hospital, doctors use advanced technology and equipment to provide liver cancer patients with the best standard of care.
How to Care for Yourself After Liver Cancer Surgery?
Since laparoscopic surgery involves small incisions, usually about 5 points on the abdomen, patients can usually get up, walk, and sit by themselves within 1-2 days after surgery if there are no internal complications. They can eat soft foods. The doctor will remove the abdominal drain and IV line and remove stitches on day 7, allowing discharge on the same day.
After returning home, patients must take medications as prescribed and follow up with the doctor 1-2 weeks after surgery to assess symptoms and liver function. Patients should rest at least 6-8 hours per day, avoid strenuous exercise, and refrain from heavy lifting for 3 months. Long-term follow-up includes blood tests and imaging every 2-3 months during the first 2-3 years, then every 6 months up to 5 years.
If the cancer has spread to other organs, either after treatment or at initial diagnosis, without expert medical care, the cancer growth may not be controlled, leading to worsening symptoms and complications. However, with proper treatment and appropriate technology tailored to each cancer type, patients have a better chance of living longer.
Anyone who suspects they are at risk, has early symptoms, or has a family history of liver cancer can consult with specialists at Phyathai 2 Hospital by calling 1772.
