Liver Tumors II: Malignant Tumors of the Liver

Abstract

Primary liver tumors originate from hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, and mesenchymal cells (Table 17.1). Among liver tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common; the majority of HCC develops as a result of chronic liver diseases that cause severe hepatocyte damage and regeneration. Chronic inflammation results in the formation of regenerative nodules as well as in the development of HCC through induction of many genetic/epigenetic alterations. Practitioners should attempt to differentiate HCC from benign and other malignant tumors and to treat it accordingly. Antiviral treatment for chronic hepatitis B (HBV) or C viruses (HCV) could reduce the risk of HCC emergence related to hepatitis virus [1, 2].