Liver cancer originates in the liver cells (also known as hepatocytes) and prevents the organ from functioning properly. This means it stops secreting bile and no longer prevents harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. Though liver cancer is common it most often develops in other body parts, such as the colon, lungs and breasts, before spreading to the liver. Luckily, various treatments are available to cure this form of cancer.
Surgery
Surgery is one of the most common treatments for individuals afflicted with liver cancer. However, the type of surgery depends on the extent of the proliferation and growth of cancerous cells. Typically, a small section of the damaged liver is surgically removed to prevent the spread of cancer to other body parts. In more serious cases, surgeons must remove the entire liver and replace it with one from a suitable donor.
Drugs and Medications
Sorafenib, which is sold under the brand name Nexavar, is a drug often prescribed to liver cancer patients and is administered by being injected into the bloodstream. According to a Mayo Clinic study, the drug helps prevent cancer cells from regenerating and thus helps delay the spread of the disease.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is another common treatment method, whereby high-energy, high-wavelength radiations of light are used to minimize the size of cancerous tumors and cells, thus preventing or greatly limiting the spread and proliferation of the disease to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
Doctors often prescribe chemotherapy to those afflicted with liver cancer, injecting drugs such as paclitaxel and velban directly into the cancerous cells in the liver, which destroys them and prevents further spread of the disease.
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