Hepatic Neoplasia

The liver is present in the abdominal cavity behind the diaphragm. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fat metabolism along with detoxification of blood are major functions of the liver.  Blood from the abdominal organs is received by the liver to remove toxins from it. The chances of developing tumor and inflammation are increased due to the large supply of blood it receives. The tumor can be of two types. 1) Primary tumors- which originate in the liver and grow there. The most common is hepatocellular carcinoma. 2) Metastatic tumor- blood can carry cancerous cells from other parts of the body along with essential nutrients to the liver. These cancerous cells attach to the tissues in the liver and grow there. Metastatic tumors are common and symptoms are unclear which include general malaise, weight loss, jaundice, and loss of appetite. In case liver cancer is suspected, physical examination and blood work is done initially. To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy of liver tissues is necessary. The type of tumor determines the type of treatment to be followed. If it is a primary tumor, it can be removed surgically. Chemotherapy is required to slow down the growth of the metastatic tumor.