In this article, we discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hepatoblastoma, a rare type of liver cancer that typically affects infants and young children.
Causes
A number of factors, including genetic conditions such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, and trisomy 18, may increase the risk of hepatoblastoma. Premature births and exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy may also contribute.
Symptoms
Hepatoblastoma can cause the following symptoms:
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Mass in the abdomen: A lump or mass that can be felt.
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Pain or discomfort in the abdomen.
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Yellowing of the skin and eyes is called jaundice.
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Reduced appetite: Reduced desire to eat.
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The loss of weight is unexplained.
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Vomiting and feeling sick to the stomach.
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A distended abdomen may be caused by an enlarged liver.
Diagnosis
Hepatoblastoma is typically diagnosed by:
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An ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can be used to determine the size and location of a liver tumor.
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By examining liver tissue under a microscope, a tissue biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
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A blood test can be used to assess liver function and detect tumor markers that are elevated.
Treatment
The treatment of hepatoblastoma depends on the size and location of the tumor, its stage, and the overall health of the child. Treatment options include:
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Hepatoblastoma is typically treated surgically, especially if it is localized and resectable.
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The use of chemotherapy before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) is intended to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) is intended to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
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A liver transplant may be considered if the tumor cannot be completely removed surgically.
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In certain cases, targeted therapy drugs are used to specifically target cancer cells and inhibit their growth.
Prevention
Currently, there are no specific preventive measures known for hepatoblastoma, which is a rare cancer with unknown causes. It is possible, however, to reduce the risk of certain congenital conditions associated with hepatoblastoma by maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and avoiding harmful substances.
Conclusion
Infants and young children are primarily affected by hepatoblastoma, a rare form of liver cancer. It is characterized by abdominal mass, abdominal pain, jaundice, and poor appetite. Diagnostic tests include imaging, biopsy, and blood tests. Surgery, chemotherapy, and liver transplantation are typical treatments. As the exact cause of hepatoblastoma is unknown, there are no specific preventive measures, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy may reduce the risk of associated congenital conditions. To improve the prognosis of hepatoblastoma, early detection and prompt treatment are essential.
