What does HCC mean in MEDICAL

The exact cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown but it's usually linked to conditions that damage or scar the liver such as long-term infection with some types of hepatitis virus, excessive alcohol consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In rare cases, inherited conditions can also increase the risk of developing HCC.

Symptoms of HCC can vary from person to person, they may not be present at all until the cancer has become advanced. Common signs include tiredness, feeling unwell, weight loss and changes in appetite, abdominal pain or swelling, jaundice and itching.

To diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), your doctor will likely perform a physical examination followed by imaging tests such as scans or biopsies to see if there are any abnormal growths in your liver. Blood tests may also be done to check for markers released by tumors that can help determine diagnosis.

Yes, treatment options for HCC depend on how far along it is when diagnosed. Options may include surgery to remove the tumor(s), radiation therapy using high energy X-rays or proton beams to target abnormal cells; chemotherapy using drugs to kill tumor cells; cryotherapy which uses extremely cold temperatures to kill cancer cells; and other treatments such as Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE), radiofrequency ablation and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

The best way to reduce your risk for developing HCC is by taking preventive measures such as reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding contact with viruses like Hepatitis B & C. Eating healthy foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables while avoiding saturated fats can help too. Vaccination against Heptatis B virus may also reduce your risk.