Liver Cancer
Online liver cancer consultation with a USA board-certified oncologist. Scans, AFP results and treatment options reviewed in a dedicated 1-hour video visit.
The most common primary liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), often linked to hepatitis B or C, fatty liver disease or cirrhosis. Treatment depends on tumor size, liver function and spread. A USA board-certified oncologist reviews your imaging and lab results in advance, then gives you a full hour by video to understand your options, from surgery and ablation to targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Raza Naqvi, MD, USA board-certified hematologist-oncologist.
Primary vs. secondary liver cancer
Primary liver cancer starts in the liver, most often hepatocellular carcinoma or, less often, bile duct cancer. Secondary (metastatic) liver cancer has spread from somewhere else, such as the colon, and is treated as that original cancer.
Risk factors
Cirrhosis from any cause
Chronic hepatitis B or C
Fatty liver disease (MASLD), linked to obesity and diabetes
Heavy alcohol use
People with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B should have an ultrasound, with or without an AFP blood test, every 6 months.
Diagnosis and staging
HCC can often be diagnosed with a contrast CT or MRI without a biopsy. Staging considers the number and size of tumors, whether blood vessels are involved, your liver function (Child-Pugh score) and your overall health.
Treatment options
Surgery: removing part of the liver when liver function is good.
Liver transplant: for selected patients with cirrhosis and limited tumors.
Ablation: destroying small tumors with heat.
Treatments delivered through the liver's arteries: chemoembolization (TACE) or radioembolization (Y-90).
Immunotherapy combinations: such as atezolizumab with bevacizumab, or durvalumab with tremelimumab, for advanced HCC.
Targeted pills: such as lenvatinib or sorafenib.
Second opinions for liver cancer
Liver cancer care involves surgeons, transplant teams, interventional radiologists and oncologists. A second opinion can check whether transplant or surgery is possible and help compare options.
How your 1-hour consultation works
Book online and complete a short intake form.
Upload your pathology, scan reports and lab results.
Dr. Naqvi reviews your records before the visit.
Meet by secure video for a full hour and leave with clear next steps and a written summary for your care team.
Frequently asked questions
Is liver cancer curable?
It can be when found early and treated with surgery, ablation or a transplant.
Can liver cancer be prevented?
Hepatitis B vaccination, treating hepatitis B and C, limiting alcohol and managing weight all lower the risk.
What is AFP?
Alpha-fetoprotein, a blood marker that is raised in some liver cancers. It helps with monitoring but isn't used alone to diagnose.
