Catch Liver Cancer At Its Early Stage, When It Is Most Treatable.
Do you know the second most common cause of male cancer death in Singapore is attributed to liver cancer?
Liver cancer is a tumour that starts in the liver cells (hepatocytes) and spreads to other tissues and organs over time. Most cases of liver cancer are asymptomatic and some patients may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite or weight
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Persistent or deep pain in the upper abdomen
- Swelling or fluid build-up in the abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- Generalised itching, tea coloured urine
- Nausea and vomiting
Metastatic Liver Cancer
Cancer that develops directly in the liver is primary liver cancer. If it spreads or metastasises from other parts of the body to the liver, it is known as secondary liver cancer and named after the organ from which it originates, for instance, colorectal liver metastasis.
Bile Duct Cancer
Bile duct cancer is a rare cancer that can occur in the bile ducts within the liver or outside the liver. Symptoms of cancer in the bile ducts may not be obvious until advanced in stage, and may present as yellowing of the skin and the eyes (jaundice), itchy skin, loss of weight and appetite, tea-coloured urine and pale stools.
Do you know the survival rates for liver cancer are better if detected early when small and localised?
Regular screening every six months is advised for high-risk groups: those with liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis B/C infection or a family history of liver cancer.
Other common liver conditions that a liver specialist can offer specialised care on include:
1
Liver Cirrhosis
the scarring of the liver which occurs repeatedly when healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue each time the liver tries to repair itself after an injury. Chronic alcohol consumption and Hepatitis B/C infections are the main causes. Typically, patients with liver cirrhosis in its early stages do not present with symptoms, and when advanced, may experience symptoms such as bruising and bleeding easily, fluid build-up in the abdomen, and swelling in the legs.
2
Liver Cysts
the fluid-filled growths that develop in the liver which are mostly small, benign and asymptomatic. If the cyst grows into a lump, causing severe pain or feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen, or if the cysts are deemed complex or at risk of turning cancerous, surgery is needed to remove part of the cyst wall or the whole cyst for treatment and diagnosis.
3
Liver Abscess
an infection in the liver typically caused by a bacterial infection that presents as a collection of pus, accompanied by pain in the upper abdomen (or throughout the abdomen), along with jaundice, fatigue and nausea. If left untreated, a liver abscess may develop life-threatening complications (sepsis).
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I see a gastroenterologist or a liver specialist for liver disease treatment?
Can liver cancer be cured?
Can liver cancer be found early?
Surgical Associates offers liver patients advanced minimally invasive surgery with proven optimal outcomes.
We believe that the most appropriate liver treatment strategy is one that embraces a thoughtful balance of associated risks and benefits, personalised for each individual.
Make An Appointment
Our Clinic Locations:
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
#08-07, 3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510
#08-07, 3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510
Tel | : 6454 0054 |
Fax | : 6764 0054 |
Email | : ask@surgicalassociates.sg |
Gleneagles Medical Centre
#05-01, 6 Napier Road, Singapore 258499
#05-01, 6 Napier Road, Singapore 258499
Tel | : 6471 0054 |
Fax | : 6271 0054 |
Opening Hours:
Mon to Fri | : 9am to 5pm |
Sat | : 9am to 1pm |
Sun & PH | : By Appointment Only |
Click to WhatsApp