What Is Sclerosing Hepatoblastoma?
Sclerosing hepatoblastoma is a rare variant of hepatoblastoma, which itself is the most common type of liver cancer in children. This variant is characterized by its significant fibrosis or sclerosing features, which means it has a considerable amount of scar-like tissue alongside the cancerous cells. Due to its rarity, sclerosing hepatoblastoma poses unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. It typically affects young children and infants.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sclerosing hepatoblastoma may not be distinct from other forms of hepatoblastoma and can include:
- Abdominal swelling or a noticeable mass
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Jaundice (a yellowish tint to the skin or eyes)
- Unexplained weight loss or failure to thrive in infants
Disease Aetiology (Causes)
The exact cause of sclerosing hepatoblastoma, like other pediatric liver tumours, is not well understood. There may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors at play, though specific risk factors for the sclerosing variant have not been clearly identified.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing sclerosing hepatoblastoma involves a multi-step process, including:
- Imaging studies such as ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans to visualize the tumour’s size and location within the liver.
- Blood tests to measure liver function and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, which are often elevated in cases of hepatoblastoma.
- A biopsy of the liver tissue to examine the cellular makeup of the tumour, confirming the diagnosis of sclerosing hepatoblastoma through histological analysis.
Treatment
Treatment strategies for sclerosing hepatoblastoma typically mirror those for other types of hepatoblastoma and may include:
- Surgical resection to remove the tumour is often the primary treatment approach, aiming for a complete removal if possible.
- Chemotherapy is commonly used either before surgery (to shrink the tumour and make it more operable) or after surgery (to target any remaining cancer cells).
- Liver transplantation may be considered in cases where the tumour is unresectable or if there is extensive liver involvement.
- Clinical trials exploring new therapies, including targeted therapy or immunotherapy, may offer additional options for treatment.
What support can we give for the Sclerosing Hepatoblastoma (Liver)?
Sclerosing Hepatoblastoma (Liver) is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well-known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Sclerosing Hepatoblastoma (Liver), we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
