Tests for liver cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary malignant tumor from hepatocytes. HCC is the most common malignant tumor of the liver and makes a significant contribution to mortality from cancer in the world (fifth place).

Liver cancer screening is currently only recommended for high-risk adults. This is because they are more likely to get sick.

Having an increased risk does not mean that you will definitely get liver cancer. But you may need to start regular screenings to help detect cancer at the earliest possible stage in the event of illness. With early detection, the chances of a successful cure of the disease are high.

Along with regular examinations, watch for changes in the body. So it is worth being alert if you notice yellowness or weight loss and immediately inform your doctor about it.

Risk factors:

• Chronic infection of hepatitis B and C;
• Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC);
• Hereditary metabolic disorders, including:
• Hemochromatosis
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
• Glycogen storage disease
• Cutaneous porphyria late
• Tyrosinemia
• Autoimmune hepatitis;
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

If any of these factors are relevant to you, it is imperative that you see your doctor, who will send you for certain tests to assess the risk of liver cancer.

Examinations are carried out among patients in risk groups:

• High risk group: viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis of non-viral etiology (every 6 months);
• Very high risk group: cirrhosis of the liver of viral etiology (every 3 months).

Diagnosis of HCC consists of:

• Determination of the level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) every 3-6 months. (an increase in AFP up to 200 ng / ml or an increase in the l3-fraction of AFP up to 15% and above can serve as a sufficient basis for CT / MRI with contrast even with negative ultrasound)
• Ultrasound of the abdominal organs every 3-6 months

In case of detection of focal liver formation during ultrasound and / or an increase in the AFP level above 200 ng / ml, CT / MRI of the liver with bolus contrast enhancement is prescribed according to indications.

At the NROC, you can undergo high-quality diagnostics, get a "second opinion" about the type of tumor cells in the diagnosis, and, if necessary, immediately begin and receive qualified treatment.