Is Liver Transplantation Effective in Treating Late-Stage Liver Cancer?
Liver transplantation, or liver replacement, is not effective for patients with advanced liver cancer. This is because advanced liver cancer is often accompanied by multiple intrahepatic metastases, which is an absolute contraindication for liver transplantation. Patients with advanced liver malignancies may also suffer from anemia and hypoproteinemia, as well as distant metastasis, which are not suitable for liver transplantation.
For patients with advanced liver cancer, liver artery catheterization infusion chemotherapy or interventional embolization treatment can be chosen based on the needs of their condition. This can control the growth rate of the tumor to a certain extent. For multiple intrahepatic metastatic tumors, radiofrequency ablation therapy can also be an option. At the same time, it is necessary to monitor changes in liver function indicators and perform liver protection and symptomatic treatment.
Patients with advanced liver cancer may also experience cancer pain, which can be relieved through analgesia treatment. The goal is to minimize the patient's suffering and improve their quality of life during the later stages of the disease.
What are the causes of liver cancer? Here are some examples:
1. Excessive and Prolonged Alcohol Consumption
Moderate alcohol consumption may be enjoyable, but excessive drinking can harm the liver. Liver damage is closely related to excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol from various beverages is metabolized and decomposed by the liver after entering the body. However, alcohol is harmful to liver cells, and its toxicity can interfere with the breakdown of fatty acids and lead to abnormal metabolism, causing fatty liver. Continued excessive drinking can further worsen fatty liver and lead to the development of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
2. Consumption of Moldy Food
Moldy food contains high levels of aflatoxin B1, a potent carcinogen, which should be avoided.
3. Consumption of Smoked and Pickled Foods
Smoked and pickled foods are popular on the dining table but are significant contributors to liver cancer. They contain high amounts of nitrites, which can be converted into carcinogenic nitrosamines, increasing the risk of liver cancer.
4. Drinking from Contaminated Water Sources
In some areas, people still drink water from ponds or wells, which may be contaminated due to chemical pollution and other factors. Such unsafe water sources can contribute to the occurrence of liver cancer.