Receiving a liver cancer diagnosis can be a scary and overwhelming experience. It’s important to understand the process of diagnosis and what to expect during this time.

Here are some key things to keep in mind when facing a liver cancer diagnosis:

Medical History and Physical Exam

The first step in diagnosing liver cancer is a medical history and physical exam. Your doctor will ask about any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue. They will also examine your abdomen for any signs of swelling or tenderness.

Blood Tests and Imaging Scans

Blood tests and imaging scans are used to confirm the presence of liver cancer. Blood tests can detect liver function and identify certain markers that may indicate the presence of cancer. Imaging scans, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds, can provide detailed images of the liver and surrounding areas to identify any tumors or abnormalities.

Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy may be necessary to confirm a liver cancer diagnosis. During this procedure, a small sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and may cause some discomfort or soreness afterward.

For more information, click here - 肝癌檢查

Staging and Treatment Options

Once a liver cancer diagnosis has been confirmed, your doctor will determine the stage of the cancer. This is based on the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to other parts of the body, and other factors. Treatment options will depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments.

Emotional Support

A liver cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, and it’s important to seek support from loved ones, a therapist, or a support group. It’s normal to feel scared, anxious, or overwhelmed, but there are resources available to help you cope with the diagnosis and treatment process.

Medical History and Physical Exam

The first step in a liver cancer diagnosis is a medical history and physical exam. Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They will also perform a physical exam to check for any signs of liver cancer, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal swelling, or tenderness in the upper right side of the abdomen.

Diagnostic Tests

If your doctor suspects that you may have liver cancer, they will order diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs, and a biopsy of the liver tissue.

Staging

Once a liver cancer diagnosis is confirmed, the next step is staging. Staging is the process of determining the extent and severity of the cancer. This is important because it will help your doctor determine the best treatment plan for you. Staging may involve further imaging tests and possibly a biopsy of nearby lymph nodes or other organs to check for cancer spread.

Treatment Options

After staging, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences.

Managing Symptoms and Side Effects

During treatment, your doctor will work with you to manage any symptoms or side effects that you may experience. This may include medications to manage pain or nausea, dietary changes to support your liver function, and counseling or support groups to help you cope with the emotional aspects of liver cancer.

Follow-Up Care

After treatment, it's important to continue with regular follow-up care to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence. Your doctor may recommend regular imaging tests and blood tests to check for any changes. They will also work with you to manage any ongoing symptoms or side effects.