Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer
WHAT TREATMENTS SHOULD I DISCUSS WITH MY DOCTOR?
Liver cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt and effective management. The management of liver cancer will vary based on the stage of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and their individual treatment goals. However, here are the most common approaches to managing liver cancer:
Surgery: In cases where the cancer is limited to a small part of the liver, surgery can be an effective treatment option. The goal of the surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue and preserve as much healthy liver tissue as possible.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be used before or after surgery to shrink the cancer or to manage advanced-stage cancer that cannot be removed by surgery.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells. It is often used in combination with chemotherapy to manage liver cancer.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer form of treatment that uses drugs to target specific genetic mutations or protein markers on cancer cells. This type of treatment can be effective in managing liver cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
Liver Transplant: In some cases, a liver transplant may be recommended for patients with liver cancer. This procedure involves removing the patient's damaged liver and replacing it with a healthy liver from a donor.
Palliative Care: For patients with advanced liver cancer that cannot be cured, palliative care may be recommended. This type of care focuses on relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and providing emotional and psychological support to the patient and their family.
It is important to note that the management of liver cancer will vary for each individual and will be determined by the patient's healthcare team based on their specific needs and treatment goals. Additionally, it is important for patients to receive regular follow-up care to monitor the progression of their cancer and to manage any side effects of treatment.
WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE TO HELP ME?
https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa1915745
