About Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, also called hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC, is cancer that starts in the liver. Most people who get liver cancer already have a liver disease such as hepatitis B or C or cirrhosis. Because treatment for liver cancer is very complex, patients benefit most from working with a coordinated team of experts. At the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, our Liver Cancer Clinic focuses on hepatocellular cancer, with therapies that represent the complete spectrum of liver tumor treatments available today.

Liver cancer is increasing in the United States, especially in people with chronic liver diseases. In 2009, about 23,000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer in the U.S., and about 18,000 people died from liver cancer. In Oregon, more people with Asian and Pacific Island heritage get liver cancer and die from this disease.
Secondary liver cancer is cancer that spreads to the liver from another part of the body, such as the prostate, breast or lung.