Malignant Liver Tumors

Fibrolamellar carcinoma

This distinct variant of hepatocellular carcinoma has a characteristic histological morphology. It usually occurs in young adults and has no association with preexisting cirrhosis, HBV, HCV, or other known risk factors. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels are rarely elevated. Prognosis is better than that for hepatocellular carcinoma, and many patients survive several yearsafter tumor resection.

Cholangiocarcinoma

This tumor originates in the biliary epithelium. It is common in China, where underlying infestation with liver flukes is believed to contribute. Elsewhere, it is less common than hepatocellular carcinoma. Primary sclerosing cholangitis greatly increases risk of cholangiocarcinoma. Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin occurring when bile ducts are blocked by tumor), abdominal pain, generalized itching, weight loss, fever, and changes in the color of stool or urine. Diagnosis is made with imaging studies and biopsy. The prognosis is poor and the treatment usually involves chemotherapy and radiation therapy

Hepatoblastoma

Although rare, hepatoblastoma is one of the most common primary liver cancers in infants, particularly those with a family history of familial adenomatous polyposis. It can also develop in children. Some patients with hepatoblastoma present with precocious puberty caused by ectopic gonadotropin production, but the cancer is usually detected because of deteriorating general health and a right upper quadrant mass. An elevated AFP level and abnormal imaging test results may help in the diagnosis.

Angiosarcoma

This rare cancer is associated with specific chemical carcinogens, including industrial vinyl chloride.

Cystadenocarcinoma

This rare disorder is probably secondary to malignant transformation of a cystadenoma and is often multilobular. Diagnosis is made with liver biopsy Treatment is liver resection. Prognosis is poor