Liver Cancer
Liver Cancer starts in the cells of the liver. There are two kinds of liver cancer; primary liver cancer, which starts in the tissue of the liver. The other type is secondary (or metastatic) liver cancer, typically starts in another area of the body and moves into the liver.
Our team of experts includes hepatologists, hepatobiliary and transplant surgeons, diagnostic and interventional radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists and nurses who collaborate to create a comprehensive care plan.
The team works in partnership with Yale Liver Center and the Yale Cancer Center to give patients access to modern techniques and technology to diagnose and treat liver cancer. Offering a variety of treatment options using advanced therapies, including state-of-the-art genomic profiling, our team provides the appropriate treatment to meet the individualized needs of each patient, while focusing on their quality of life. We understand the importance of clinical trials as we continually strive to provide our patients with the most current therapies.
What to expect
The first team you will meet after being referred to the program will be our dedicated hepatologists. Liver cancer is almost always associated with chronic liver diseases of variable severity and with a number of risk factors that must be addressed to block the progression of liver disease and to prevent the recurrence of the cancer. Our ability to apply treatments depends on the function of the liver before and during the treatment. Hepatologists will see the patients, assess liver function, address the risk factors, evaluate, based on general condition, stage of the tumor and prognostic indexes if the patient is a potential candidate for liver transplant, and prepare the tumor board discussion. After treatment, our hepatologist team will provide continued care to manage the underlying liver disease, preserve liver function, and monitor for possible recurrence of cancer. Hepatologists also work with surgeons, interventionalists and medical oncologists to manage liver function during the treatments. All hepatologists working in the Liver Cancer Program are certified transplant hepatologists.
Symptoms
We emphasize the importance of diagnosing liver cancer early, when treatment is optimal. It is important that patients with risk factors for liver disease (viral hepatitis B and C, liver cirrhosis, excessive drinking, smoking, obesity, type 2 diabetes, etc.) discuss with their physicians the most appropriate tests, screening and surveillance. Often liver cancer is asymptomatic and symptoms may appear late in the disease.
Symptoms of liver cancer are non-specific and are similar to those of the underlaying liver disease. These symptoms may include:
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis
After a thorough exam, other tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of liver cancer and to determine its stage. These tests include:
- Blood tests, including biomarkers
- Chest CT
- Contrast enhanced computed Tomography (CT Scan) or magnetic resonance (MRI). Both need to be performed following a specific protocol for contrast administration.
- Liver Ultrasound
- Targeted liver mass biopsy (in certain cases)
We offer liver cancer screening for those at increased risk for developing liver cancer.
Treatment
Supportive Care
Smilow Cancer Hospital places great emphasis on taking care of all our patients’ needs with the best medical care available and a network of supportive care services. Advanced practice nurses with dedicated knowledge and skills related to the treatment of liver cancer are available to care for patients throughout the continuum of their illness. Patients and their families are also provided with access to social workers to ensure psychosocial support during their treatment. Other available resources for our patients and/or families include nutritional counseling, physical therapy, art therapy, and pastoral support.
