Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and important information about Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as noted in the lecture.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

The commonest primary liver tumor and ranked as the 6th most common cancer globally.

Incidence of HCC

HCC is the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide according to WHO.

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma

A subtype of HCC that frequently affects young females, is less aggressive, and has a good prognosis if resected early.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)

A tumor marker for HCC, often elevated in patients with advanced HCC and used for surveillance.

Cirrhosis

A liver condition where patients are at risk of developing HCC; about one-third will develop the cancer in their lifetime.

Risk factors for HCC

Include viral hepatitis (HBV and HCV), environmental toxins, alcohol, tobacco, obesity, and genetic susceptibility.

Milan criteria

Criteria that define eligibility for liver transplantation in HCC patients, focusing on tumor size and number.

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE)

A treatment for intermediate-stage HCC involving the infusion of cytotoxic agents and embolizing the feeding artery.

Symptoms of HCC

Can include weakness, abdominal mass, weight loss, obstructive jaundice, and paraneoplastic syndromes.

Prognosis of HCC

Generally poor with a five-year survival rate of less than 20%, influenced by tumor size and metastasis.