|
|
| Facts & Figures | Treatment Decision | 1-800-4-CANCER | Quit Smoking Guide | Cancer Statistics |
| Cancer | Skin Cancer Advice | Free Natural Cures | Natural Cancer Remedies | Cancer Free |
|
Hepatocellular (Liver) Cancer, Childhood (Primary) |
|
Childhood liver cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the liver. The liver is one of the largest organs in the body, filling the upper right side of the abdomen, inside the rib cage. The liver has two parts, a right lobe and a smaller left lobe. The liver has many important functions, including: Filtering harmful substances from the blood so they can be passed from the body in stools and urine. Making bile to help digest fats from food. Storing glycogen (sugar), which the body uses for energy. There are two main types of childhood liver cancer: Hepatoblastoma: A type of liver cancer that usually does not spread outside the liver. This type usually affects children younger than 3 years old. Hepatocellular carcinoma: A type of liver cancer that often spreads to other places in the body. This type can affect children of any age. This summary refers to the treatment of primary liver cancer (cancer that begins in the liver). Treatment of metastatic liver cancer, which is cancer that begins in other parts of the body and spreads to the liver, is not discussed in this summary. Primary liver cancer can occur in both adults and children. Treatment for children, however, is different than treatment for adults. Certain diseases and disorders can increase the risk of developing childhood liver cancer. |
