Liver cancer is a growing concern in India. Many patients are diagnosed in the later stages, where treatment becomes more complex. Understanding liver cancer stages helps in planning the right treatment at the right time. It also gives hope and clarity to patients and families.
As a leading liver cancer specialist in Pune, Dr. Manoj Dongare believes that awareness of liver cancer stages is the first step towards better outcomes.
Liver Cancer Staging Systems:
Staging means checking how far the cancer has spread. Doctors use two main systems to stage liver cancer:
- TNM System: It checks the size of the tumour (T), if cancer has spread to lymph nodes (N), and if it has reached other organs (M).
- BCLC Staging System: This system is widely used. It considers tumour size, liver function, general health, and cancer spread.
Staging helps to decide the best treatment. It also helps in understanding the survival rate.
Detailed Breakdown of Liver Cancer Stages:
Stage I:
- Cancer is small and limited to the liver.
- No blood vessel invasion.
- Best outcomes if treated early.
- Options include surgical removal or liver transplant for liver cancer.
- The five-year survival rate can go up to 50 percent.
Stage II:
- A single tumour with blood vessel involvement or multiple small tumours.
- Treatment options include surgery or local therapies.
- If caught early, survival chances are still good.
Stage III:
- Tumours are larger or involve major blood vessels.
- It may also spread to nearby organs.
- Surgery might not be possible in all cases.
- Advanced treatments like TACE or targeted therapy may be used.
- The survival rate is lower, but it depends on liver function and overall health.
Stage IV:
- Cancer has spread to distant organs like the lungs or bones.
- Focus is on improving the quality of life.
- Treatments include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or palliative care.
- Survival rate is low, but some patients respond well to new therapies.
Factors Influencing Survival Rates:
Many factors affect the survival rate in liver cancer:
- Stage at diagnosis
- Liver function and presence of cirrhosis
- Patient’s age and overall health
- Access to advanced treatment and skilled surgeons
- Regular follow-up and supportive care
At advanced centres like Dr. Manoj Dongare’s Cloverleaf Speciality clinic in Wakad, patients get personalised care that considers all these factors.
Treatment Modalities Based on Stages:
Surgery:
- The most effective option in the early stages.
- Includes liver cancer surgery and complete liver transplant.
Liver Transplant:
- Ideal for certain early-stage patients with liver damage.
- Available at expert centres with trained transplant teams.
Ablation Therapies:
- Destroy cancer cells using heat or alcohol.
- Useful when surgery is not an option.
TACE (Transarterial Chemoembolization):
- Blocks the blood supply to the tumour and delivers chemotherapy directly.
Targeted and Immunotherapy:
- Used in advanced stages.
- These help control cancer growth and improve quality.
Palliative Care:
- Focuses on pain relief and emotional support in late stages.
As a top liver cancer surgeon in PCMC, Dr. Manoj Dongare offers the latest treatments with compassion and expertise.
Conclusion:
Understanding liver cancer stages and survival rates helps patients take control of their journey. It gives them a clear picture of what to expect. Treatments are most effective when the cancer is found early. With the right specialist and care plan, many patients lead longer and healthier lives.
If you or your loved one is looking for expert care, consult Dr. Manoj Dongare, the best liver cancer doctor in PCMC, for a complete evaluation and personalised treatment plan.
Book an appointment today or call 9881379573 to get started on the right path to recovery.