Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary cancer of the liver. HCC is rare in the general population but is unfortunately common in patients with severe scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) from any cause. HCC is also common in patients with longstanding chronic hepatitis B without cirrhosis. Liver tumors can often be diagnosed confidently with non-invasive radiology scans (ultrasound, CAT scans, or MRI) and no biopsy. HCC is a particularly deadly cancer if not treated aggressively. Small cancers can be treated with minimally invasive techniques or a liver transplant. Larger tumors or cancers that have spread outside the liver (metastatic) are generally not curable. Incurable tumors can be palliated with very targeted, minimally invasive therapy or oral chemotherapy.
For more information about diagnosis or treatment options please call 504-988-5344.
If you have been diagnosed with HCC, you may be eligible to participate in a research study. To learn more about clinical research and about liver research studies at Tulane click here.
