Different tests are used to screen for different types of cancer when there are no clinical symptoms.
Scientists study screening methods to find the test that does the least harm and the most good. Cancer screening tests are also designed to confirm whether early detection (finding cancer before it produces symptoms) can help extend a patient’s life or reduce the probability of dying from cancer. For some types of cancer, the chances of recovery are higher if detected and treated early.
There is no standardized or routine screening method for liver cancer.
Although there is no standardized and routine method of screening for liver cancer, the following tests are being used or are being studied for liver cancer screening
Ultrasound
During ultrasound, the liver reflects high-energy sound waves and produces echoes. These echoes form an image of the liver called an ultrasonogram. This image can be printed out and viewed.
CT scans
CT scans can obtain a series of detailed images of the liver taken from different angles. These images are synthesized by a computer connected to an x-ray machine. To make the liver appear more clearly, a dye may need to be injected or swallowed. This operation is also called a CAT scan or computed tomography scan.
Tumor markers
Tumor markers, also called biomarkers, are substances produced by tumors that can be detected in the blood, other body fluids, or tissues. High levels of a tumor marker may mean having a specific type of cancer.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is the most widely used tumor marker in liver cancer screening. However, having other cancers and specific conditions (including pregnancy, hepatitis) may also lead to elevated AFP.
Specific tumor markers that can be used for early detection of liver cancer are still under investigation.
Information on relevant ongoing clinical trials can be obtained from the NCI website.
Screening methods for liver cancer are currently being studied in clinical trials.
Information about NCI-supported clinical trials can be found on the NCI’s Clinical Trials Search page. Clinical trials supported by other organizations can be found on the ClinicalTrials.gov website.