According to Dr Chhina, hepatocellular carcinoma, also called hepatoma, is a primary malignancy (cancer) of the liver. It is the most prevalent primary malignant tumor of the liver, which is more common in men. The main symptoms of the disease are fatigue, anorexia and abdominal discomfort. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of liver cancer and usually signifies a very large tumor or wide-spread involvement of the liver.

Additionally, unexplained weight loss or unexplained fever are also the warning signs of liver cancer in patients with cirrhosis. It was suggested that patients with Hepatitis B and C infections needed a surveillance at regular intervals because early diagnosis of the problem led to better treatment, which otherwise was very difficult in the later stage of hepatocellular cancer.

Dr Chhina said that the treatment options were governed by the stages of liver cancer and the overall condition of the patient. The only proven cure for liver cancer is liver transplantation for a small-sized tumor, approximately of less than three cms. Dr Chhina said that Hepatitis B vaccination was very important for preventing hepatocellular cancer by preventing hepatitis B infection.

He mentioned about the new drug “Sorafenib,” which is a multiple enzyme inhibitor and available for use in liver cancer. The major risk factors include chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C and cirrhosis and prevention remains the cornerstone of therapy.

As per the data available in DMCH for the period January-June 2008, 50 patients in the age group of 50-60 years were diagnosed with liver cancer. Tests for surveillance included ultrasonography and future directions in the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma stressed on earlier detection, new treatment and better chemotherapy.