How Does a Doctor Diagnose Liver Cancer
Physical Exam. The physical exam is the first step in diagnosis any disease, liver cancer included. The doctor will check for any abnormalities like lumps, listen to your heart and lungs and check for other things. A physical exam is normally painless.Complete Blood Count(CBC). The CBC is a routine blood test that checks for the amount of red and white blood cells and platelets. This test also reveals how much of the sample is made up of red blood cells.
Alpha-fetoprotein Tumor Maker Test (AFP). A tumor marker test measures the amount of substances in the body released by cell and organs. Many times, an increase in the level can indicate diseases. The alpha-fetoprotein test can indicate liver cancer, cirrhosis and hepatitis, if there is a hike in the levels.
Ultrasound. During an ultrasound, a technician uses a small instrument that glides along your skin that reveals your organs on a screen. The ultrasound uses high energy waves that bounce off organs to reveal an image. It is completely painless and allows doctors to get a good look at the liver.
Other Imaging Tests Used: Other imaging equipment such as an MRI and CT Scanmay also be performed. These are both painless tests.
Laparoscopy. A laparoscopy is an exploratory surgical procedure. Tiny incisions are made into the abdomen and a lighted scope is inserted for the surgeon to view the organs. The surgeon is looking for abnormalities or signs of disease.
Biopsy. A biopsy made be done during the laparoscopy or during an ultrasound. A very fine needle is inserted through the skin to the liver and a small sample of cells is taken.
Source: national Cancer Institute: Liver Cancer PDQ
