Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) — treatment in Lahore
Also known as: HCC · Hepatocellular Carcinoma · Primary Liver Cancer
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) is a cancer that begins in the liver, most often in the setting of chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or cirrhosis from any cause. Regular surveillance can detect it early when it is curable.
Overview
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often curable when caught small. Patients at risk should have 6-monthly screening — a simple ultrasound and a blood test.
Signs & symptoms of Liver Cancer Screening (HCC)
If you recognize one or more of these, it may be worth a consultation:
- Often no symptoms in early disease
- Right-upper-abdominal pain or fullness
- Weight loss, fatigue (later stages)
Causes & risk factors
Several factors can contribute to Liver Cancer Screening (HCC). Identifying yours guides the treatment plan.
- Chronic hepatitis B
- Chronic hepatitis C
- Cirrhosis from any cause
- Heavy alcohol use
- NAFLD/NASH with fibrosis
- Aflatoxin exposure (contaminated grains)
- Hemochromatosis
How Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) is diagnosed
We order tests selectively — only what changes the plan.
- Ultrasound every 6 months
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- CT or MRI if a lesion is found
Treatment options
Treatment for Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) is personalized — the right plan depends on your symptoms, test results, and life situation.
- 1 Surgery (resection) for early tumours
- 2 Liver transplant for selected patients
- 3 Ablation (radiofrequency, microwave) for small tumours
- 4 Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE)
- 5 Systemic therapy (immunotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors) for advanced disease
Can Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) be prevented?
Simple, evidence-based steps that reduce your risk.
- Treat or cure hepatitis B and C
- Vaccinate against hepatitis B
- Maintain a healthy weight to prevent NAFLD
- Limit alcohol
- Six-monthly surveillance for all at-risk patients
When should you see a doctor about Liver Cancer Screening (HCC)?
Reach out without delay if you notice any of the following.
- Any abdominal mass
- Unexplained weight loss
- Right-upper-abdominal pain
- Hepatitis B or C patient without recent screening
- Cirrhosis without 6-monthly surveillance
Frequently asked questions about Liver Cancer Screening (HCC)
Who needs liver cancer screening? +
All patients with cirrhosis, all chronic hepatitis B patients meeting risk criteria, and selected NAFLD patients with advanced fibrosis. Screening is ultrasound + alpha-fetoprotein every 6 months.
Related services
How we treat Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) at Javaid Poly Clinic.
Useful self-check tools
Free, evidence-based — try them before your visit.
Dr Usman Javaid
Gastroenterology & Medicine Diplomat · DIP (Gastro) UK · DIP (Hepatology) UK · DIP (Diabetes) UK · MCPS FM-TC · MPH · FRSPH (UK) · FRCP (Colombo) · Organ Transplant Advisor · CHPE (NUMS) · Preventive Medicine Specialist · Owner of Javaid Poly Clinic.
This page was medically reviewed by Dr Usman Javaid on . Content is updated when new evidence or guidelines emerge.
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation. If you have symptoms of Liver Cancer Screening (HCC) or any other condition, please book a consultation. In emergencies, call 1122 or visit your nearest emergency department.