Liver Cancer

Liver Cancer Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Liver cancer is one of the most challenging forms of cancer, often detected in its advanced stages. The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxifying the body, producing proteins for blood clotting, and supporting digestion. Liver cancer disrupts these crucial functions, leading to severe health complications. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we provide world-class care for liver cancer patients with the latest diagnostic tools and advanced treatments. Led by the best oncologist in Dubai, our team is committed to offering comprehensive and personalized cancer care, ensuring the highest standard of treatment.

About Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, occurs when abnormal cells in the liver grow uncontrollably, forming tumors. There are two primary types of liver cancer:

1. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): This is the most common type of liver cancer, originating in the main liver cells called hepatocytes. It is often linked to chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.
2. Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer): This form of cancer arises in the bile ducts that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.

Liver cancer can progress rapidly, and because the liver has a large blood supply, the disease can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. The prognosis for liver cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, making early detection vital for successful treatment.

Causes & Symptoms

Liver cancer has several known risk factors, including:

• Chronic Hepatitis Infections: Hepatitis B and C infections are major causes of liver cancer, as these viruses can lead to chronic inflammation and cirrhosis of the liver.
• Cirrhosis: This condition, where liver tissue is replaced with scar tissue due to long-term damage, is a significant risk factor for liver cancer.
• Alcohol Abuse: Long-term alcohol consumption can cause liver damage and cirrhosis, increasing the risk of liver cancer.
• Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): In this condition, fat builds up in the liver, leading to inflammation and scarring, which can progress to cancer.
• Obesity and Diabetes: Both conditions are linked to a higher risk of developing liver cancer due to their association with fatty liver disease.
• Exposure to Aflatoxins: These toxins, found in contaminated foods like nuts and grains, can damage liver cells and lead to cancer.

Symptoms of liver cancer often go unnoticed in the early stages but may include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Upper abdominal pain or swelling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dark urine and pale stools

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for further evaluation.

Diagnosis

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we use a range of advanced diagnostic tools to detect liver cancer as early as possible. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Blood Tests: Tests for liver function and tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) help identify liver cancer.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs provide detailed images of the liver to detect tumors and assess their size and spread.
• Liver Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the liver and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
• Liver Function Tests: These tests assess how well the liver is functioning and whether it is being affected by cancer.

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to improving treatment outcomes, and Emirates Hospitals Group offers the most sophisticated imaging and testing techniques available.

Treatment

Treatment for liver cancer depends on the size and stage of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the liver and the patient. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: If the cancer is detected early and is confined to a portion of the liver, surgery (partial hepatectomy) may be recommended to remove the tumor. In more advanced cases, a liver transplant might be considered.
• Ablation Therapy: Techniques such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation are used to destroy cancer cells with heat or cold.
• Embolization: This treatment blocks the blood flow to the tumor, starving it of nutrients. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combines this technique with chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target cancer cells are used to block the growth of the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy: This innovative treatment boosts the body’s immune system to better recognize and fight cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Traditional chemotherapy may also be used to slow the progression of the disease, especially in more advanced cases.

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our oncologists work closely with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan, utilizing the latest therapies to improve outcomes.