Liver cancer

If you’re affected by primary liver cancer, you may have many questions about how it is diagnosed, treatment options, side effects and how to stay well. You can find trustworthy information about all aspects of your experience below.

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What is liver cancer?

Primary liver cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumour that starts in the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer.

Symptoms

Learn about the common symptoms of liver cancer and when to see your doctor.

Getting diagnosed

Find out about the tests for liver cancer, how it is diagnosed and staged, and who will provide your care.

Treating liver cancer

There are many different types of treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma , including surgery, tumour ablation, and others.

Managing side effects

Find out about ways to manage some common side effects of liver cancer, such as jaundice, poor appetite and weight loss, and pain.

Life after treatment

Learn about follow-up care, what happens if the cancer returns, and how to look after your physical and mental health.

Questions for your doctorAsking your doctor questions will help you make informed decisions. Here’s a list of questions you may want to ask.

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Diagnosis

What type of liver cancer do I have? Is it a primary or a secondary cancer?
Has the cancer spread? If so, where has it spread? How fast is it growing?
Are the latest tests and treatments for primary liver cancer available in this hospital?
Will a multidisciplinary team be involved in my care?
Are there clinical guidelines for this type of cancer?

Treatment

What treatment do you recommend? What is the aim of this treatment?
Are there other treatment choices for me? If not, why not?
If I don’t have the treatment, what should I expect?
How long do I have to make a decision?
I’m thinking of getting a second opinion. Can you recommend anyone?
How long will treatment take? Will I have to stay in hospital?
Are there any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare or my private health cover? Can the cost be reduced if I can’t afford it?
How will we know if the treatment is working?
Are there any clinical trials or research studies I could join?

Side effects

What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
Will I have a lot of pain? What will be done about this?
Can I work, drive and do my normal activities while having treatment?
Will the treatment affect my sex life and fertility?
Should I change my diet or physical activity during or after treatment?
Are there any complementary therapies that might help me?

After treatment

How often will I need check-ups after treatment?
If the cancer returns, how will I know? What treatments could I have?

Learn about secondary liver cancer, and how it is diagnosed and treated.

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