Hepatobiliary Cancers

Hepatobiliary cancers refer to a group of malignancies that affect the liver and biliary system (the bile ducts, gallbladder, and associated structures). The main types of hepatobiliary cancers include:

• Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma): This is the most common type of primary liver cancer.
• Bile Duct Cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma): This cancer occurs in the bile ducts and can be intrahepatic (inside the liver) or extrahepatic (outside the liver).
• Gallbladder Cancer: A rare cancer that starts in the gallbladder.

Symptoms

• Abdominal Pain: Often in the upper right quadrant.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained and significant weight loss.
• Loss of Appetite: Decreased desire to eat.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive disturbances.
• Itchy Skin: A common symptom associated with bile duct obstruction.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest.
• Swelling in the Abdomen: Caused by fluid accumulation (ascites).

Causes

• Chronic Liver Diseases: Conditions such as hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease increase the risk.
• Exposure to Aflatoxins: Naturally occurring toxins produced by certain molds can increase cancer risk.
• Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and prolonged alcohol use can lead to liver damage and increase cancer risk.
• Obesity: Obesity is linked to fatty liver disease and increased cancer risk.
• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes may have a higher risk of liver cancer.
• Genetic Factors: Some inherited conditions can predispose individuals to hepatobiliary cancers.

Treatment

• Surgery:
  Partial Hepatectomy: Removal of the tumor and a portion of healthy liver tissue.
  Liver Transplant: For select patients with early-stage liver cancer.
• Ablation Therapies: Techniques such as radiofrequency ablation or microwave ablation can destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs may be used to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, typically used for advanced cases.
• Targeted Therapy: Medications that specifically target cancer cell characteristics.
• Immunotherapy: Treatments that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Sometimes used in conjunction with other treatments for symptom relief or localized treatment.