How is liver cancer diagnosed?
A number of tests will be performed to investigate symptoms of liver cancer and confirm a diagnosis. Some of the more common tests include:
- a physical examination
- examination of a blood sample
- imaging of the liver and nearby organs, which may include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic imaging resonance (MRI)
- examination of the inside of the abdomen using a laparoscope (a thin tube with a light on the end)
- taking a sample of tissue (biopsy) from the liver for examination under a microscope.
National Cancer Institute. Liver cancer treatment (PDQ): patient version.
Ryder SD. Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in adults. Gut 2003;52(Suppl 3):1–8.