maksansyövän

Maksansyöpä, also known as liver cancer, refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the liver. The most common type of primary liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which originates in the main liver cells. Other less common types include cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and hepatoblastoma, which typically affects children.

The development of liver cancer is often linked to chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections are significant risk factors, as is excessive alcohol consumption. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), are also increasingly recognized causes. Exposure to certain toxins, such as aflatoxins found in moldy grains, can also contribute.

Symptoms of liver cancer may not appear until the disease is advanced. When they do occur, they can include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, swelling, unintended weight loss, and fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, blood tests (including tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein), and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. A liver biopsy may be necessary for confirmation.

Treatment options for liver cancer depend on the stage of the disease, the overall health of the patient, and the extent of liver function. These can include surgery to remove the tumor, liver transplantation, ablation therapies that destroy cancer cells, and embolization techniques that block blood supply to the tumor. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy are also used, particularly for advanced cases. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.