What is Spindle Cell Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
Spindle cell hepatocellular carcinoma is a rare type of liver cancer that consists of spindle-shaped cells. It accounts for approximately 2% of all liver cancer cases. This usually has a poor prognosis and tends to metastasize (the ability of the tumour to spread from the site of origin to other parts of the body). The most common sites of metastasis are the lymph nodes, lungs, and spinal cord. It mostly develops in older people. It is more common in males than females. It shows a poor prognosis with 3 a year survival rate is less than 20%.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause.Signs and Symptoms
- Constant feeling of tiredness
- Unintentional weight loss
- Yellowish colour of the skin and the eyes
- Dark yellowish colour of the urine
- Constant Fever
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Blood coagulation profile
- BUN ( blood urea and nitrogen)
- Serum creatinine
- Liver function tests LFTs
- Amylase and lipase values
- Imaging techniques like CT scan, MRI, PET scan, X-Ray, and USG to detect the site and size of the tumour.
- Chol angioscopy (USG of the gall bladder and biliary tree)
- ·Cholangiography
- MRCP (Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography
- Serum bilirubin total, serum bilirubin conjugated and unconjugated
- Preoperative biopsy
- Hepatocellular markers
Treatment
Surgical removal of the tumour is the most common and effective treatment option. Other treatment options are radiofrequency ablation, transarterial chemoembolization, and liver transplantation.What Support can we Give for Spindle Cell Hepatocellular Carcinoma?
Spindle Cell Hepatocellular Carcinoma is 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 Spindle Cell Hepatocellular Carcinoma, 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:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
