Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Treatment in India
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What is Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)?
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common type of liver cancer. It is an aggressive (fast-growing) cancer that most commonly affects persons with severe liver disease, such as cirrhosis. People with HCC are increasingly being diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which can develop to cirrhosis.
What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?
Early treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is essential for improving patient outcomes and survival rates. Early discovery enables more effective treatment choices, such as surgical resection, liver transplantation, or local therapy (e.g., ablation or embolisation), which may cure the cancer or considerably postpone its progression. Delaying treatment can cause tumour growth, spread (metastasis), and poor liver function, making cancer more difficult to cure and decreasing the likelihood of a favourable outcome. Early intervention also enhances quality of life by enabling more effective symptom management.
What are the Common Symptoms of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)?
Tumours may not present symptoms in their early stages. However, as HCC proceeds, you may notice:
- Fullness or a knot under your right ribs (symptoms of an enlarged liver).
- Fullness under your ribs on the left side (symptoms of an expanded spleen).
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin (an indication of jaundice).
- A distended stomach, as if it is overflowing with fluid.
- Appetite loss or feeling full after eating a little meal.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Itching.
Causes and Risk Factors of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
Causes
- Hepatocellular carcinoma occurs when liver cells' DNA undergoes modifications (mutations).
- A cell's DNA contains the instructions for every chemical process in your body. DNA mutations alter these instructions.
- As a result, cells may grow out of control, eventually becoming a tumour—a mass of malignant cells.
Risk Factors
The following conditions enhance your risk of developing HCC:
- Hepatitis B infection: Hepatitis B infection can cause HCC even in the absence of liver cirrhosis or before it develops.
- Hepatitis C Infection: A viral infection that spreads through blood.
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD): It is a disorder that causes excessive fat to accumulate in the liver.
- Alcohol use disorder: The liver has a tough time processing alcohol. Drinking too much of it can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer.
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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in India
- Recent advances in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) treatment in India include targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Furthermore, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE), and liver transplantation are becoming more common, with ongoing clinical trials investigating gene therapy and combination medicines to improve treatment outcomes.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Prevention Tips
There are various ways to lower your chance of having HCC. You can do:
- Lower your risk of cirrhosis.
- To lower your risk of developing cirrhosis, avoid drinking alcohol.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Vaccinate against hepatitis B.
- You can lower your risk of contracting hepatitis B by getting the vaccine.
- Take steps to prevent hepatitis C.
- Do not use intravenous drugs,
- When getting a piercing or tattoo, look for safe and clean shops.
- Seek treatment for hepatitis B or C infections.
Treatment options for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
Treatments include:
Surgery: The surgical treatments for HCC are hepatectomy (removal of the diseased section of the liver) or liver transplantation.
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Ablation therapy: This involves the use of a specialised needle to burn malignancies. The needle can direct highly hot energy (microwaves or radiofrequency waves) or extremely cold.
Embolisation: It is the process of implanting a material directly into the arteries that supply the tumour, blocking blood flow.
Radiation therapy: Providers may recommend radiation therapy to treat tiny cancers that cannot be removed surgically or destroyed through ablation.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs are also used to treat advanced HCC. They help your immune system recognise and combat cancer cells.
Cost Start From USD 3000 - USD 5000Explore Options
Targeted therapy: These medications treat advanced HCC. This medication inhibits the signal that tells cancer cells to continue growing.
Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 12000Explore Options
The following tests can assist in confirming a diagnosis:
- Blood tests: Your provider may check your blood for indicators of HCC, such as elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Elevated AFP levels may indicate HCC or a disease that can develop into HCC, such as hepatitis infection or liver cirrhosis.
- Imaging scans: Imaging treatments such as an ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or angiography can detect cancers (or indicators of a tumour) within your liver.
- Liver biopsy: Your doctor may do a liver biopsy to look for cancer cells. If your bloodwork and imaging scans do not provide enough information to make a diagnosis, you may need this test.
Rehabilitation treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) are aimed at increasing quality of life, accelerating physical recovery, and minimising therapeutic side effects. Here are the main rehabilitation alternatives for HCC patients:
Physical Rehabilitation: After liver surgery or transplant, patients may receive physical therapy to restore strength, increase flexibility, and minimise fatigue. A personalised workout regimen might help you improve your overall fitness and stamina.
Mobility assistance: Patients with limited movement due to treatment side effects may benefit from exercises to enhance balance and coordination.
Psychosocial support: Therapy or joining a support group can help cancer patients deal with the emotional and mental challenges of their treatment.
MediGence can assist and guide you in selecting the best physician and medical facility for your care.
Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may prescribe medication to assist you in managing your symptoms and support your treatment plan.
Treatment regimens are adapted to the patient's specific cancer stage and location.
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Hospitals for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) in India
The Medical Park
Chennai, India
The Medical Park, located in the heart of Chennai, is a leading one-stop wellness and aesthetic surgery center, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical treatments. With over 25 years of expertise in aesthetic procedures, The Medical Park is renowned for its commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centric care. The clinic offers a wide range of services designed to promote overall health, rejuvenation, and well-being, combining state-of-the-art facilities with advanced medical technology.
The Medical Park in Chennai is a premier healthcare and wellness facility that offers a comprehensive range of services designed to promote overall well-being. Combining state-of-the-art medical treatments with a holistic approach to health, their clinic provides a one-stop solution for those seeking aesthetic procedures, wellness programs, and mental health support. The Wellness Centre is equipped with the latest fitness technologies and staffed by highly trained professionals.
Manipal Hospital, Dwarka
Delhi, India
Manipal Hospital Dwarka is a leading multi-super speciality tertiary care hospital offering world-class, affordable, and accessible healthcare. Backed by renowned doctors, advanced technology, and global standards in clinical care, the hospital provides comprehensive preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic services for all age groups. With 380 beds, 13 modular OTs, 118 critical care beds, and 24/7 emergency services, it combines excellence in patient care with innovations like AI, telemedicine, remote monitoring, and EMR—striving to become a fully digital, paperless hospital setting new standards in modern healthcare.
Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre
Chennai, India
The mega-structure of RIMC serves as a hospital as well as an educational institute. Hence, it offers a huge array of medical services and facilities to cater to the needs of its patients.
Fertility Services - RIMC specializes in both male and female fertility and in procedures like IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Uterine Transplants, Preimplantation genetics and Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH).
Anaesthesia and ICU - The ICU rooms in RIMC are equipped to serve the individual needs of every patient. They boast the largest liver transplant ICU in India and a specific ICU dedicated to pediatrics multi-organ transplants.
Radiology and Imaging Sciences - RIMC has the infrastructure to support high-quality scans including 128 Slice CT, Cardiac MRI, and 3 Tesla MRIs.
Blood Bank and Transfusion Medicine - RIMC has an active blood bank system with facilities dedicated to Blood Component Separation and Therapy. They use high-end technology like the Automated 1H500 Analyser and have a separate Therapeutic Apheresis Unit.
Advanced Endoscopy - Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre has one of the most advanced hospital facilities with an individual healthcare unit specifically dedicated to Endoscopy. Advanced procedures like Spyglass Cholangioscopy, Laser therapy, Endoscopic Ultrasound, Capsule Endoscopy, and special ERCP and EUS Suite.
Some of the other healthcare facilities, departments, and services offered by Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Healthcare are listed below:
- Orthopaedics
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Hepatology
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine and Diabetology
- Advanced Paediatrics
- Ear Nose and Throat
- Emergency Medicine
- Interventional Radiology and Imaging Services
- Neonatology
- Neurology
- Liver Disease and Transplantation
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Oncology
- Nephrology
- Neonatology
- Pathology
- Ophthalmology
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Radiation Oncology
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Transfusion Medicine
Apart from these facilities, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre also have a preventive health check lounge, 72 consultation suites, and 360 degrees including lab facilities specifically for outpatients.
Visit Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre in Chromepet, Chennai today and find the best care for you and your loved ones.
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Why Choose India for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Treatment?
Here are some of the reasons for choosing India:
- Due to advancements in medical facilities, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques.
- World-class experts include highly experienced doctors, JCI, and NABH-accredited healthcare institutions.
- Compared to other countries, treatment in Indian hospitals is cost-effective.
- Indian hospitals provide International patient services, including a multilingual support system.
- Improved treatment methods and biological therapies
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, liver transplantation is a possibility for patients with early-stage HCC, mainly if the tumour is localised to the liver and the patient has cirrhosis. India has several transplant centres that provide this procedure.
Early diagnosis and treatment increase the chance of survival. Surgical resection or liver transplantation can provide a cure in the early stages, while modern therapies such as targeted medicines and immunotherapy can enhance quality of life and increase survival.
Survival rates vary depending on the stage of diagnosis. Early-stage HCC treated with surgery or liver transplantation has a much greater survival rate; however, advanced cases may have a poorer survival rate despite treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly enhance outcomes.
Yes, lifestyle changes include:
- Consuming a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Managing chronic liver illnesses such as hepatitis or fatty liver can help avoid or better manage HCC.
HCC is one of the most common malignancies in India, particularly in areas with a high prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections. However, its prevalence is on the rise as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related liver damage become more common.
Many patients can retain a high quality of life thanks to improved treatments such as surgery, liver transplants, and tailored medications. However, the disease's impact varies depending on the stage of cancer and the available treatment options.