Liver cancer

Liver cancer is a cancer that starts in the liver. It is sometimes called primary liver cancer. A cancer that starts somewhere else in the body and spreads to the liver is called secondary cancer in the liver.

Primary liver cancer is rare in the UK, but the number of people developing it is increasing. Around 5,700 people in the UK are diagnosed with primary liver cancer each year. In other parts of the world, such as parts of Africa and Asia, it is one of the most common cancers.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. It is sometimes called hepatoma. This information is about hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To make it simpler, we call it HCC.

We have more information about other types of cancer that start in the liver.

There are certain things that can increase the risk of developing liver cancer. These are called risk factors. Having a risk factor does not mean you will get cancer. And if you do not have any risk factors, you may still develop it.

The stage of a cancer describes its size and whether it has spread from where it first started.

Knowing the stage helps you and your doctors to decide on the best treatment for you. For liver cancer, doctors also use the Child-Pugh score when planning treatment. This looks at how well the liver is working.

After your treatment finishes, you will have regular check-ups. Your specialist will do a physical examination. You will usually also have blood tests. Depending on the treatment you had, you may have regular CT scans to check that the tumour has not come back. After a liver transplant, you also have checks to make sure your body is not rejecting the new liver. Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about what to look out for. 

If you have problems or new symptoms between check-ups, contact your doctor or nurse as soon as possible.

You may get anxious between appointments. This is natural. It may help to get support from family, friends or a support organisation. 

Macmillan is also here to support you. If you would like to talk, you can: 

• Call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00. 
• Chat to our specialists online. 
• Visit our liver cancer forum to talk with people who have been affected by liver cancer, share your experience, and ask an expert your questions. 

After treatment you are likely to feel very tired and you may still be coping with some side effects. It is important to take care of yourself to allow your body time to recover. Tiredness and feeling weak are also common in people with advanced liver cancer. Make sure you get enough rest and eat well.

After treatment, you may want to focus on making the most of your health.

Because the liver breaks down alcohol, your specialist may advise you not to drink for a period of time after treatment. They may ask you to reduce the amount of alcohol you drink, or to stop drinking completely. Your liver may not be able to cope with alcohol, so ask your specialist doctor or nurse for advice.