Liver Health: Risks of Cirrhosis and Cancer - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Liver Health: Risks of Cirrhosis and Cancer

Hello： 1. <br>Currently, the report does not indicate the presence of cirrhosis; whether it will develop in the future will require ongoing monitoring. <br>2. <br>To determine if you are in a high-risk group for liver cancer, you should consult your clinical physician, who can as

Liver issues?

Hello Dr.
Tsai! I am the patient who consulted you a few days ago regarding my condition.
After reviewing my report, do you think I am at risk for liver cirrhosis? Also, would you consider me to be in a high-risk group for liver cancer? Thank you, and I would like to know if you think it is necessary for me to undergo a liver fibrosis scan as a self-paid procedure.
Thank you again, Dr.
Tsai.

Piqiu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/18

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
Currently, the report does not indicate the presence of cirrhosis; whether it will develop in the future will require ongoing monitoring.
2.
To determine if you are in a high-risk group for liver cancer, you should consult your clinical physician, who can assess your previous tests or recommend further examinations.
3.
If you would like to gain a better understanding of your condition, you may consider undergoing additional tests.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/02/18

More Info

Understanding liver health is crucial, especially when considering the risks associated with conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer. Your inquiry about whether your current situation indicates cirrhosis and if you fall into a high-risk category for liver cancer is an important one.
Firstly, cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, which can impede liver function. The most common causes of cirrhosis include chronic viral hepatitis (particularly hepatitis B and C), excessive alcohol consumption, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Symptoms of cirrhosis can be subtle in the early stages, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Common signs may include fatigue, easy bruising, swelling in the legs and abdomen, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
To determine if you have cirrhosis, your healthcare provider will likely consider your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and order tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (like ultrasound or CT scans), or a liver biopsy. If your report does not indicate cirrhosis, it is essential to continue monitoring your liver health through regular check-ups and follow-up tests.

Regarding your concern about being in a high-risk group for liver cancer, several factors can increase this risk. Chronic liver diseases, particularly those caused by hepatitis B and C infections, are significant contributors to liver cancer development. Other risk factors include heavy alcohol use, obesity, diabetes, and a family history of liver cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, it is advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider to assess your risk level accurately.

As for the liver stiffness scan (fibroScan), this non-invasive test measures liver stiffness, which can indicate the level of fibrosis or scarring in the liver. It is a useful tool for assessing liver health and determining the extent of liver damage. If you have concerns about your liver health or if your healthcare provider suspects fibrosis or cirrhosis, undergoing a liver stiffness scan can provide valuable information. It can help in monitoring the progression of liver disease and guide treatment decisions.

In summary, while your current report may not indicate cirrhosis, ongoing monitoring is essential. If you have risk factors for liver cancer, it is crucial to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your concerns and the need for further testing, including a liver stiffness scan. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for liver-related diseases. Always prioritize a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and harmful substances, to support liver health.

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