Condition

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

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Treated by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of cancer that begins in the main cells of the liver. It typically develops in people with chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis from hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or long-term alcohol use. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates and manages liver tumours with a focus on surgical options when appropriate for the patient's condition.

Treatable Early Detection Matters Multiple Options
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Hepatocellular Carcinoma at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Quick Facts

At a glance.

Clinical Overview
Progression TypeProgressive
Diagnosis MethodImaging and biopsy
Types

Types of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Solitary hepatocellular carcinomaMultifocal hepatocellular carcinomaDiffuse hepatocellular carcinoma

Solitary hepatocellular carcinoma

A single tumour confined to one area of the liver, often found in early-stage disease and may be suitable for surgical removal.

Multifocal hepatocellular carcinoma

Multiple tumour nodules present in the liver, which can occur when cancer spreads within the organ or develops in several areas simultaneously.

Diffuse hepatocellular carcinoma

Cancer involves large portions of the liver in a scattered pattern, making surgical resection more challenging and often requiring alternative treatments.

Causes

What causes hepatocellular carcinoma?

Multiple factors can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.

Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
Liver cirrhosis from various causes
Excessive alcohol consumption over many years
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome
Symptoms

Signs to look out for.

Recognising the signs early gives you more treatment options.

Early StageMild discomfort
Often no symptoms in early stages
Vague upper abdominal discomfort
Mild fatigue or weakness
ModerateIncreasing impact
Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss
Feeling of fullness or bloating in the upper abdomen
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
AdvancedSignificant limitation
Severe abdominal pain or swelling
Fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites)
Confusion or altered consciousness from liver failure
Evaluation

How it's evaluated.

Diagnosis begins with a detailed history, physical examination, and blood tests to assess liver function and tumour markers. Imaging studies help identify the tumour, while a biopsy may be performed in selected cases to confirm the diagnosis. Not every patient requires all tests.

Treatment

Treatment options available.

From conservative to surgical — we always start with the least invasive option first.

Surveillance and monitoring
View details

Surveillance and monitoring

  • Periodic imaging studies every few months
  • Serial AFP measurements
  • Assessment of liver function
Our Approach

How we handle this condition.

A structured, patient-first approach from first visit to full recovery.

Step 01

Comprehensive evaluation

Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy begins with a thorough clinical assessment, reviews all imaging and laboratory results, and determines the stage and extent of the liver cancer.

Step 02

Treatment planning

The treatment approach is tailored to each patient based on tumour characteristics, liver function, overall health, and surgical suitability, with discussion of all available options.

Step 03

Surgical intervention when appropriate

For eligible patients, Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy performs liver resection or coordinates care for transplant evaluation, aiming to remove the cancer while preserving liver function.

Step 04

Follow-up and ongoing care

After treatment, regular monitoring with imaging and blood tests helps detect any recurrence early, and guidance is provided for maintaining liver health and managing underlying conditions.

Recovery

Recovery & aftercare.

What to expect at each phase of recovery.

Early recovery (first few weeks)Intermediate recovery (weeks to months)Long-term follow-up

Early recovery (first few weeks)

Hospital stay following surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Pain management, wound care, and gradual return to eating are prioritized. Individual recovery times differ based on liver function and overall health.

Intermediate recovery (weeks to months)

The liver begins to regenerate after resection, and patients gradually resume daily activities. Regular follow-up visits monitor liver function and healing. Energy levels improve over time, though the pace varies.

Long-term follow-up

Ongoing surveillance with imaging and blood tests continues for years to monitor for recurrence. Attention to underlying liver disease, lifestyle modifications, and management of risk factors remain important throughout.

Outcomes

Treatment outcomes.

Tumour control

Surgical resection or transplantation may achieve complete removal of localized hepatocellular carcinoma in selected patients, though recurrence remains a possibility that requires ongoing monitoring.

Preservation of liver function

Treatment planning aims to balance cancer removal with maintaining adequate liver function, though some patients with advanced cirrhosis may have limited options regardless of tumour size.

Management of underlying liver disease

Addressing the chronic liver condition that led to hepatocellular carcinoma is essential, as cirrhosis and hepatitis require ongoing care even after cancer treatment.

Limitations in advanced disease

Patients with large, multifocal tumours or those with severely impaired liver function may not be candidates for curative surgery, and treatment focuses on symptom management and quality of life.

What happens if this is left untreated?

Untreated hepatocellular carcinoma typically continues to grow and may spread to other parts of the liver or beyond. As the tumour enlarges, liver function deteriorates, leading to complications such as jaundice, ascites, bleeding, and liver failure. Without intervention, advanced hepatocellular carcinoma significantly shortens life expectancy.

When should you see a doctor?

You should seek medical evaluation if you have risk factors for liver cancer, such as chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, and develop new symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, or jaundice. Anyone with known liver disease should follow their doctor's recommended screening schedule. If you experience sudden worsening of abdominal swelling, confusion, or bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.

FAQ

About hepatocellular carcinoma.

Can hepatocellular carcinoma be cured?
How is hepatocellular carcinoma different from other liver problems?
Who is at highest risk for developing this cancer?
What tests are needed to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma?
Will I need surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma?
Related Care

Procedures we offer.

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Related resources.

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