Liver Cancer

General Information

This cancer treatment information summary provides an overview of the prognosis, diagnosis, classification, and treatment of childhood liver cancer.

The National Cancer Institute provides the PDQ® pediatric cancer treatment information summaries as a public service to increase the availability of evidence-based cancer information to health professionals, patients, and the public. These summaries are updated regularly according to the latest published research findings by an of pediatric oncology specialists.

Cancer in children and adolescents is rare. Children and adolescents with cancer should be referred to medical centers that have a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists with experience treating the cancers that occur during childhood and adolescence. This multidisciplinary team approach incorporates the skills of the primary care physician, pediatric surgical subspecialists, radiation therapists, pediatric oncologists/hematologists, rehabilitation specialists, pediatric nurse specialists, social workers, and others to ensure that children receive treatment, supportive care, and rehabilitation that will achieve optimal survival and quality of life. (Refer to the PDQ® Supportive care summaries for specific information about supportive care for children and adolescents with cancer.)

A diagnosis of cancer can be devastating. It is nearly impossible to prepare for and difficult to adequately describe what you may be feeling in response. This site addresses some of the feelings associated with the diagnosis of cancer. You might be surprised to learn that you are not alone in your feelings and that many people have the same responses.

Having reliable information about your disease, current research, and your treatment options is important. Choosing a health care team, knowing which questions to ask, and understanding how to live with and beyond cancer will help you learn to take control of your situation. Understanding your disease is one of the strongest weapons you have in fighting your illness.

This site discusses a variety of ways to get the information you need to become an informed, active participant in your cancer treatment. A Glossary of the terms that appear in the text in italics can be found at the end of this discussion. Please consult your health care team to discuss any questions that may come up after reading the information provided on this website. This information is not intended to replace the advice of your health care team.

Why do I feel this way?

There is no typical way to feel when you are told that you have cancer. Everyone feels and responds differently. Some people experience several emotions at once, ranging from fear, sadness, or even anger, to motivation and determination. There is, however, one feeling that seems consistent for many people who are diagnosed with cancer--and that is a loss of control. One way to regain a sense of control in your life is by learning as much as you can about your disease so that you can discuss it openly with your health care team.

Becoming a self-advocate is one way to approach your diagnosis and treatment. Being self-supportive requires that you understand what is best for you. You may want to consider spending some time evaluating your needs to determine how you would like to approach your treatment.

One way to become acquainted with your needs is through self-assessment. Your experience with cancer is a very personal journey, and it is helpful to try to understand your feelings. Keeping a journal can provide a way for you to document this period in your life, record questions and thoughts, and express concerns about your cancer treatment. Getting acquainted with your needs is a good first step in approaching your cancer therapy.

Knowing when to ask for help is another important aspect of being a self-advocate. As the primary supporter of your cause, it is up to you to determine when (and whom) to ask for help. Often, an individual's first request for help is when they are scheduled to visit the doctor. You may request that a friend or family member go with you to your first few appointments to help take notes, clarify information, or simply be there as a source of support. Your care partner does not have to be the same person all of the time, but it should be someone who can help you gather and understand the large amount of information you will receive.

Choosing a health care team

Finding the best available health care is crucial. Your primary care doctor will have an ongoing role in your cancer treatment and may refer you to an oncologist, a specialist in cancer care. Your oncologist should be someone who listens carefully to your needs and concerns, relates to you with consideration and respect, and will work with you to select the cancer treatment that is right for you. Many people choose to seek a second opinion. If you feel that this is an option you would like to pursue, ask your primary care doctor or oncologist for help in referring you to another specialist. Taking a few days to meet with more than one doctor is always appropriate and is a positive step toward taking control of your cancer therapy. Physicians understand that this is necessary for many newly diagnosed patients and should be supportive of your need to explore this option. After meeting with and talking to different physicians, you should feel free to move forward with the health care provider who best fits your needs and will work with you to meet your goals. Remember, building a comfortable relationship with your health care team is an important part of your cancer care.