Liver Pathologies / Cancer
Liver pathologies encompass a range of diseases and disorders affecting the liver, including liver cancer. Here’s a breakdown of common liver pathologies and liver cancer:
Common Liver Pathologies:-
Hepatitis:
- Viral Hepatitis: Caused by viruses (e.g., Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E).
- Alcoholic Hepatitis: Caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
- Autoimmune Hepatitis: The immune system attacks liver cells.
Fatty Liver Disease:
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Fat accumulates in the liver not due to alcohol.
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Fat accumulation due to heavy alcohol use.
Cirrhosis: Scarring of the liver caused by long-term liver damage. Common causes include chronic alcoholism and chronic viral hepatitis.
Liver Fibrosis: Formation of excessive fibrous connective tissue in the liver as a response to injury.
Liver Infections: Bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections affecting the liver.
Liver Abscess: Pockets of pus in the liver caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections.
Liver Cancer:
Primary Liver Cancer:
- Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): The most common type of primary liver cancer, originating in hepatocytes (liver cells).
- Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer that originates in the bile ducts within the liver.
Secondary Liver Cancer (Metastatic Liver Cancer):
- Cancer that has spread to the liver from other parts of the body (e.g., colon, breast, lung).
Symptoms of Liver Pathologies and Cancer:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Easy bruising or bleeding
Diagnosis:
- Blood Tests: Liver function tests (LFTs), viral markers, tumor markers.
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken for examination.
- Endoscopy: For certain conditions like cholangiocarcinoma.
Treatment:
- Medications: Antivirals, steroids, chemotherapy.
- Surgery: Removal of tumors, liver transplant.
- Lifestyle Changes: Alcohol cessation, weight management.
- Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: For certain types of liver cancer.
Managing liver health involves regular check-ups, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting vaccinated against hepatitis.