Liver Cancer
Look to UC San Diego Health for highly specialized, coordinated liver cancer care.
Feel confident knowing you will receive timely, convenient access to the region's best cancer doctors and the most innovative treatment approaches at our Liver Cancer Clinic in La Jolla.
Nationally Ranked Cancer Care
UC San Diego Health is ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care and gastroenterology by U.S. News & World Report. We are also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you’ll receive the best possible care and support. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers.
What is Primary Liver Cancer?
Primary liver cancer is cancer that starts in your liver. Hepatitis B or C, chronic heavy alcohol use and fatty liver disease are all risk factors for this cancer.
We treat all types of adult primary liver cancer, including:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or hepatoma, which is cancer of the main type of liver cells
- Cholangiocarcinoma, which is cancer of the cells in the ducts of the liver
Other cancers often spread to the liver. This is known as secondary liver cancer. If you have secondary liver cancer, your care will be led by the cancer disease team that you started with and will include relevant liver doctors as well.
Diagnosing and Staging Liver Cancer
An accurate diagnosis is the first step in crafting an effective treatment plan. Your medical team may recommend one or more of the following to diagnose and stage cancer:
Imaging – You may have an MRI, CT scan or contrast-enhanced ultrasound to look for tumors, including easily missed precancerous or small tumors. UC San Diego Health has an internationally renowned liver imaging team. Most primary liver cancers can be diagnosed and staged through imaging and bloodwork.
Biopsies – You don’t always need a biopsy to be seen by or start working with a care team. If a biopsy is recommended, pathologists with expertise in gastrointestinal cancers will analyze your tissue samples.
Lab tests – Blood and lab tests may be used to measure liver function and your response to treatment.
Genetic and molecular profiling – These can help identify treatments that are right for you, including whether you may be a candidate for a clinical trial.
What is Secondary Liver Cancer?
Other cancers often spread to the liver. This is known as secondary liver cancer. If you have secondary liver cancer, your care will be led by the cancer disease team that you started with. This team will include relevant liver doctors and may also include some members of the multidisciplinary liver cancer team.
Treatments for Liver Cancer
Receive more innovative and efficient treatment options with greater access to innovative therapies than any other hospital system in San Diego.
What to Expect: Your First Appointment
On your first visit, you will usually the appropriate specialists and receive treatment options. Please provide your doctor with any imaging and lab work prior to your first appointment.
1. You may see a hepatologist, medical oncologist, surgical oncologist or interventional radiologist to discuss your medical history, review your labs and liver imaging studies, and discuss your options and next steps.
2. You may have blood work or other tests to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether your cancer has spread.
3. Your doctor reviews your health information with other liver specialists to weigh treatment options. A care plan is usually developed on the day of your first visit.
Liver Cancer Doctors and Surgeons A team approach to your care
Primary liver cancer is a complex disease. Your care team may include a combination of specialists, such as a medical oncologist, hepatologist, surgeon, interventional radiologist or radiation oncologist. These experts work closely together and meet regularly to discuss the best treatment plan for you.
Clinical Trials and Research Studies in Liver Cancer
Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention
UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve liver cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment that is not yet widely available, or you may take part in research that helps improve future care.
Patient & Family Support Services
At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.
Location
Helpful Links
Take that Cancer, You Big Jerk: How Clinical Trials Saved Me
The community comes together to learn more about the benefits of clinical trials during an event held at Moores Center Center at UC San Diego Health.
10 Medical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Not all symptoms are harmless. Learn about 10 warning signs — like chest pain, sudden confusion and unexplained weight loss — that could signal serious or life-threatening health issues.
Cancer Care When You Need It
The same-day cancer care clinic at UC San Diego Health provides fast, expert treatment for urgent cancer-related symptoms, improving patient care and quality of life.