Primary liver cancer is cancer that starts in the tissues of the liver. Cancer that has spread to the liver from another area of the body is called secondary liver cancer. According to MayoClinic.com, in its early stages, liver cancer does not present with any signs or symptoms; these only become apparent when the cancer has spread. When signs and symptoms do appear, prompt medical attention is needed for the earliest diagnosis possible.
Physical Signs
Unintentional weight loss, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, constant abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal swelling and itching are some of the signs of liver cancer, notes the American Cancer Society. The National Cancer Institute adds other symptoms like a hard lump under the rib cage on the right side of the abdomen, discomfort in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen and pain near the right shoulder blade. If you have any of these symptoms, they may also be caused by other ailments other than liver cancer, so getting prompt medical attention and an appropriate diagnosis is important.
Hormonal Effects
According to the American Cancer Society, liver tumors can cause hormonal fluctuations that can lead to physical changes, including hypercalcemia, hypoglycemia, erythrocytosis and gynecomastia. Hypercalcemia is a condition characterized by high blood calcium levels; it can cause nausea, weakness, constipation and muscle problems. Hypoglycemia is when blood sugar levels are low, which can lead to fainting and fatigue. An abundance of red blood cells, called erythrocytosis, can lead to flushing. Gynecomastia involves the growth of breasts and shrinking of testicles in men. If blood tests or a physical exam reveal any of these findings, your doctor may want to explore possible causes of these changes.
Elevated Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
Another sign of possible liver cancer is an elevated alpha-fetoprotein level, or AFP, in the blood. The American Cancer Society describes AFP as a protein that is naturally high in fetal blood, but goes away after birth. If an adult has a blood test that shows elevated AFP levels, there may be a tumor on the ovaries or testicles, or it could be indicative of liver cancer. Blood tests to look for this protein may be used in individuals at higher risk for liver cancer, but the American Cancer Society says it is not always a reliable detection method, as not all liver tumors produce this. If this protein is found in the blood, more tests are warranted to figure out the cause.
