Hepatocellular Carcinoma Facts, Including Fibrolamellar HCC

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer — cancer that begins in the liver itself rather than spreading there from another organ. It arises from hepatocytes, the main functional cells of the liver.

Key Facts About HCC

• It is strongly linked to chronic liver disease, especially cirrhosis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
• It is more common in men than women and risk increases with age.
• Early HCC often causes no symptoms, which is why surveillance in at-risk people is so important.
• When found early, HCC can often be treated with curative intent through surgery, transplant, or ablation.

Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Fibrolamellar HCC is a rare variant that behaves differently from typical HCC. It usually affects younger people (often teens and young adults), occurs in a liver without underlying cirrhosis or hepatitis, and is not associated with elevated AFP. Because it is uncommon, it is best managed at centers experienced with this diagnosis, where surgery is the main treatment when the tumor can be removed.

Other Primary Liver Cancers

Less common primary liver cancers include intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and, in children, hepatoblastoma. These are distinct from HCC and are evaluated and treated differently.

This page is for general education and is not medical advice. A liver specialist can explain what a specific diagnosis means for you.