The difference between primary liver cancer and secondary liver cancer

Primary liver cancer originates from the liver itself, while secondary liver cancer is cancer cells that metastasize to the liver from other parts of the body. The difference between the two is mainly reflected in the cause, pathological characteristics and treatment options.

1. The causes of primary liver cancer mainly include viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, long-term alcoholism, aflatoxin exposure, etc. These factors lead to genetic mutations in liver cells and eventually form malignant tumors. Viral hepatitis such as hepatitis B and C virus infection is the main cause. Long-term inflammatory stimulation causes liver cells to repair and regenerate continuously, increasing the risk of cancer. The regenerative capacity of liver cells in patients with cirrhosis is impaired, further increasing the incidence of liver cancer. Aflatoxin is a strong carcinogen that is commonly found in moldy grains and nuts. Long-term intake increases the risk of liver cancer.

2. The cause of secondary liver cancer is usually the metastasis of malignant tumors in other organs to the liver through the blood or lymphatic system. Common primary cancers include colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, etc. Cancer cells enter the liver through the blood circulation or lymphatic system and form metastatic lesions. The pathological characteristics of secondary liver cancer are similar to those of primary cancer, but the growth rate and invasiveness may be stronger. The treatment of secondary liver cancer needs to be combined with the situation of the primary cancer, and usually requires multidisciplinary collaboration.

3. Treatments for primary liver cancer include surgical resection, liver transplantation, radiofrequency ablation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgical resection is suitable for patients with early liver cancer and can completely remove the tumor. Liver transplantation is suitable for patients with severe liver damage, but donor matching and postoperative rejection reactions must be considered. Radiofrequency ablation destroys tumor cells through high temperature and is suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery. Targeted therapies such as sorafenib and lenvatinib can inhibit tumor growth. Immunotherapy such as PD-1 inhibitors can activate the patient's own immune system to attack tumors.

4. The treatment of secondary liver cancer requires a personalized plan based on the type and stage of the primary cancer. Common treatments include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and local therapy. Chemotherapy drugs such as fluorouracil and oxaliplatin can inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Targeted therapies such as bevacizumab and cetuximab can block tumor angiogenesis. Immunotherapy such as PD-1 inhibitors can enhance the immune system's recognition and attack on cancer cells. Local treatments such as hepatic artery embolization and radiofrequency ablation can reduce tumor burden and relieve symptoms.

There are significant differences in etiology, pathological characteristics and treatment plans between primary liver cancer and secondary liver cancer. The treatment of primary liver cancer focuses on radical surgery and local treatment, while the treatment of secondary liver cancer requires comprehensive consideration of the situation of the primary cancer and a personalized plan with multidisciplinary collaboration. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are the key to improving patient survival rates.