- Primary carcinoma of the liver cells with hepatomegaly, jaundice, hemoperitoneum, and other symptoms of the presence of an abdominal mass. It is rare in North America and Western Europe but is one of the most common malignancies in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, East Asia, and elsewhere. A strong association seems to exist with chronic hepatitis B virus infection.
- Malignant tumor of the liver that develops in the setting of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Hepatocellular carcinoma is derived from hepatocytes that are transformed into adenocarcinoma. Up to 60% of patients with HCC have elevated serum alpha fetoprotein levels. Tumor has a poor long-term prognosis unless treated surgically by resection or liver transplantation. Noninvasive imaging (e.g., MRI or CT scan) may distinguish hepatomas from other benign tumors such as hemangiomas.
Synonyms
HCC, Hepatocarcinoma, Hepatoma, Liver Cell Carcinoma, Malignant Hepatoma