Liver Tumours

by Dr. Sandra Cabot

What are they?

A liver tumour is an abnormal growth or mass found in the liver.

Primary Tumours

Primary tumours begin their existence in the liver. Tumours that originate in the liver may be benign or malignant. The most common are malignant. Diagnosis is made with imaging techniques such as ultrasound scan, CAT scan or MRI of the liver.

Secondary Tumours

The most common liver tumour is a secondary (metastatic) tumour. This means that the tumour has spread to the liver (metastasised) from its original source of origin. The most common sources of origin are cancers of the intestines, breast or bronchial tubes (lungs). The tumour will take root in the liver and continue to grow, eventually causing liver enlargement and perhaps yellow jaundice.

Primary Liver Cancer

Primary liver cancer refers to cancer cells originating in the liver. Primary cancer of the liver is one of the most common cancers worldwide, although much less common in the Western Hemisphere. It usually presents itself in persons below the age of 50 years. The symptoms usually progress rapidly and consist of weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, abdominal pain and swelling. The liver feels enlarged and irregular. Primary liver cancer does not have a good outlook, and this is why it is important to avoid the factors that cause it. Early diagnosis and correction of these factors can prevent primary liver cancer.

Factors that increase the risk of liver cancer are:

Chronic infection with hepatitis B and C viruses. See Hepatitis Haemochromatosis . See haemachromatosis Alcoholism. Possible association may exist with long term ingestion of high oestrogen doses (sometimes seen in transvestites) and androgenic steroids.

Nutritional Help for those with Liver and Bowel Cancer

• Easily digested foods such as vegetable and grain soups, pureed vegetables and raw vegetable juices. Suitable juices are beetroot, carrot, and celery, apple and wheat grass juice. These can be diluted with 50% water if desired. Drink around 300 - 500 mL (10 - 17oz)of this juice mixture daily. Protein powder food supplements such as SYND X Protein Powder are beneficial, and can be added to smoothies made with oat, rice or soymilk, soy yoghurt and banana.

• Eat fish at least three times a week such as sardines, salmon and tuna (canned varieties are acceptable).