- Primary Unresectable Liver Cancer
Overview
Primary Liver Cancer is cancer that has been first found in the tissues of your liver. If the cancer was found in another organ first, it’s called Secondary or Metastatic Liver Cancer.
Unresectable Primary Liver Cancer diagnosis is when surgery is not a treatment option because the tumor can’t be removed safely, without damaging your liver function.
Often surgery is not an option because the tumor in your liver is too large, the tumor is too close to an important blood vessel, there is more than one tumor in your liver, or other risk factors have been identified by your doctor.
What Tests Will I Need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.
Doctors may also look for hepatitis and liver damage to tell you more about what caused your cancer.
Tissue analysis is also typically done to identify the cancer cell type, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.
Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

Cancer Research U.K. CC BY-SA 4
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Commonly Searched Questions
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Symptoms
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
- Pale stool and dark urine
- Feeling weak constantly
- An abnormal swollen abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unintentional weight loss
- A lump on the right side below the rib cage
- Pain in the abdomen
Source: Cancer.gov
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Treatment
- Liver transplant
- Surgery to remove the liver cancer
- Palliative therapy
- Ablation therapy
Source: Cancer.gov
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Survival Rate
Source: Cancer.gov
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Recurrence Rate
Source: Cancer.gov
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Definition
Source: Cancer.gov
Recurrent Primary Liver Cancer Prevention
- Manage Chronic Liver Conditions: Effectively manage underlying conditions like hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease with medical guidance.
- Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption to reduce liver damage and lower the risk of recurrence.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fats.
- Regular Medical Follow-up: Adhere to regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor liver health and detect any recurrence early.
- Avoid Hepatotoxic Substances: Stay away from substances that can harm the liver, including certain medications and chemicals.
Source: Cancer.gov