![]() Specific tumor markers that may lead to early detection of liver cancer are being studied.ĭoctors use these screening tests to find, or diagnose, liver cancer. However, other cancers and certain conditions, including pregnancy, hepatitis, and other types of cancer, may also increase AFP levels. When spots or discolorations appear, this can be a sign of various liver disorders ranging from benign tumors to inflammation to cancer. Normally, the liver has a smooth, uniform appearance in images generated by such techniques. A high level of a specific tumor marker may mean that a certain type of cancer is present in the body.Īlpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is the most widely used tumor marker for detecting liver cancer. Visible spots on the liver appear using medical imaging technology (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, etc.). Doctors most frequently use ultrasounds during pregnancy to view the fetus as it presents a safe, clear picture of the fetus and mothers body. Health care professionals use it to view blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, liver, and many other organs in the body. Tumor markers, also called biomarkers, are substances made by the tumor that may be found in the blood, other body fluids, or tissues. Ultrasound devices operate with frequencies from 20 kHz up to several gigahertz. This procedure is also called CAT scan or computed tomography. A dye may be injected into a vein or swallowed to help the liver show up more clearly. The pictures are made by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. CT scanĬT scan is a procedure that makes a series of detailed pictures of the liver, taken from different angles. The echoes form a picture of the liver called a sonogram. Its normal to have small amounts of fat in. Ultrasound is a procedure in which high-energy waves (ultrasound) are bounced off the liver and make echoes. Hepatic steatosis synonymous with fatty liver is a disease that results from excess fat in the liver. Although there is no standard or routine screening tests for liver cancer, the following tests are being used or studied to screen for it: Ultrasound
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |