What is secondary liver cancer

Secondary liver cancer refers to liver cancer that is formed by the metastasis of malignant tumors in other parts of the body to the liver. It is a common manifestation of cancer spread. Its occurrence is closely related to the metastasis of primary tumors. Common causes include tumor cells spreading to the liver through the blood or lymphatic system, or directly invading liver tissue. Treatment methods include surgical resection, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, and the specific plan needs to be formulated according to the patient's condition.

1. Causes of secondary liver cancer

The occurrence of secondary liver cancer is mainly related to tumor metastasis. Common primary tumors include colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer. Tumor cells spread to the liver through the blood circulation or lymphatic system, grow in the liver to form metastatic lesions. Some tumors may directly invade liver tissue, leading to the occurrence of secondary liver cancer. Genetic factors, environmental exposure, chronic inflammation and abnormal immune system function may also increase the risk of tumor metastasis.

2. Diagnosis of secondary liver cancer

The diagnosis of secondary liver cancer requires a combination of imaging and pathological examinations. Common imaging examinations include ultrasound, CT, and MRI, which can show tumor lesions in the liver. In blood tests, the levels of tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein AFP and carcinoembryonic antigen CEA may be elevated. Confirmation usually requires a liver puncture biopsy to obtain tumor tissue for pathological analysis.

3. Treatment of secondary liver cancer

Treatment for secondary liver cancer depends on the type of primary tumor, the number and location of metastases, and the patient's overall health.

1. Surgical resection: For isolated or localized liver metastases, surgical resection is the preferred treatment. For example, patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases can undergo surgical resection of liver metastases when conditions permit.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a common treatment for secondary liver cancer, especially for patients with multiple metastatic lesions or those who are inoperable. Commonly used chemotherapy drugs include 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and irinotecan.

3 Targeted therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecular targets, such as bevacizumab and cetuximab, can be used for certain types of secondary liver cancer to improve treatment outcomes.

4 Immunotherapy: Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as PD-1 inhibitors and CTLA-4 inhibitors, have shown good efficacy in some patients with secondary liver cancer.

4. Prevention and rehabilitation of secondary liver cancer

The key to preventing secondary liver cancer is early detection and treatment of primary tumors. Regular physical examinations and screening can help detect tumors early and reduce the risk of metastasis. For patients who have been diagnosed, actively cooperating with treatment and maintaining good living habits and mentality can help improve the quality of life and prognosis. In terms of diet, it is recommended to consume more foods rich in antioxidants, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, and avoid high-fat and high-sugar diets. Appropriate aerobic exercise, such as walking and swimming, can help enhance physical fitness and immunity.

The treatment of secondary liver cancer requires multidisciplinary collaboration and a personalized plan based on the patient's specific situation. Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are the key to improving prognosis. Patients should follow up regularly to monitor changes in their condition and adjust treatment plans in a timely manner. Through scientific treatment and a healthy lifestyle, patients with secondary liver cancer can achieve a better quality of life.