original tumor, whether or not the tumors have spread to other organs, and if there are growths on the nearby lymph nodes.
To diagnose advanced liver cancer, your doctor will need to perform blood tests, imaging tests, and sampling of the liver tissue (biopsy). The blood tests will determine any abnormalities in the blood while the imaging tests will show the size and location of the tumors. The cells that are taken during a liver biopsy will be examined under a microscope. The state of the cells is integral to diagnosing the stage of cancer.
Treatment Options for Advanced Liver Cancer
At an advanced stage of liver cancer, surgery is not usually an option because the tumors have spread to other parts of the body.
Treating advanced liver cancer can be further complicated by decreased liver function as well as the compromised function of other organs. Persons who still have appreciable liver function may be treated using targeted drug therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
For those whose liver function has been compromised, immunotherapy may be the preferred treatment option. That’s because this method encourages the body’s immune system to attack the tumors. Alternatively, localized treatments could also be used as they are applied directly to the point of the tumor.
Being diagnosed with advanced liver cancer doesn’t mean that it’s time to give up. There are effective treatment options out there for you to consider. Of course, it’s always best to get an early diagnosis so the condition can be addressed quickly. If you think you could be at risk for liver cancer, consult with your doctor as soon as possible.