Liver Tumors
by Dr. Sandra Cabot
 What
are they?
A liver tumor is an abnormal growth or mass found in the liver.
Primary Tumors
Primary tumors begin their existence in the liver. Tumors that originate
in the liver may be benign or malignant. The most common are malignant.
Diagnosis is made with imaging techniques such as ultrasound scan, CAT
scan or MRI of the liver.
Secondary Tumors
The most common liver tumor is a secondary (metastatic) tumor This means
that the tumor has spread to the liver (metastasised) from its original
source of origin. The most common sources of origin are cancers of the
intestines, breast or bronchial tubes (lungs). The tumor will take root
in the liver and continue to grow, eventually causing liver enlargement
and perhaps yellow jaundice.
Primary Liver Cancer
Primary liver cancer refers to cancer cells originating in the liver.
Primary cancer of the liver is one of the most common cancers worldwide,
although much less common in the Western Hemisphere. It usually presents
itself in persons below the age of 50 years. The symptoms usually progress
rapidly and consist of weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, abdominal
pain and swelling. The liver feels enlarged and irregular. Primary liver
cancer does not have a good outlook, and this is why it is important to
avoid the factors that cause it. Early diagnosis and correction of these
factors can prevent primary liver cancer.
Factors that increase the risk of liver cancer are:
Chronic infection with hepatitis B and C viruses. See Hepatitis hemochromatosis
. See hemochromatosis Alcoholism. Possible association may exist with
long term ingestion of high estrogen doses (sometimes seen in transvestites)
and androgenic steroids.
Nutritional Help for those with Liver and Bowel Cancer
Easily digested foods such as vegetable and grain soups, pureed
vegetables and raw vegetable juices. Suitable juices are beetroot, carrot,
and celery, apple and wheat grass juice. These can be diluted with 50%
water if desired. Drink around 300 - 500 mL (10 - 17oz)of this juice mixture
daily. Protein powder food supplements such as
SYND X Protein Powder are beneficial, and can be added to smoothies
made with oat, rice or soymilk, soy yogurt and banana.
Eat fish at least three times a week such as sardines, salmon
and tuna (canned varieties are acceptable).
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