Liver Cancer Treatment Options for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) depends on the size and number of tumors, whether the cancer has spread, how well the liver is working, and the patient's overall health. Many people are cared for by a multidisciplinary team that may include hepatologists, surgeons, interventional radiologists, and oncologists.
Curative Treatments
- Surgical resection — removing the part of the liver that contains the tumor, best suited to patients with good liver function and a single tumor.
- Liver transplant — replaces the diseased liver and treats both the cancer and underlying cirrhosis in eligible patients.
- Ablation — destroying small tumors with heat (radiofrequency or microwave) or other energy, often for tumors under 3 cm.
Liver-Directed (Locoregional) Therapies
- Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) — delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumor while blocking its blood supply.
- Radioembolization (TARE / Y-90) — delivers tiny radioactive beads into the tumor's blood vessels.
- Radiation therapy — including stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for selected tumors.
Systemic Therapy for Advanced HCC
When cancer is advanced or has spread, treatment may include targeted therapies (such as sorafenib or lenvatinib), immunotherapy combinations, and clinical-trial options. These treatments aim to slow the cancer and extend life.
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made with your cancer care team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma?
Options can include surgery, liver transplant, ablation, embolization, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The right choice depends on the stage, your liver health, and your overall condition. Your care team will recommend a personalized plan.
How is the right treatment chosen?
Your care team considers the cancer stage, the health of your liver, your general health, and your goals to recommend a treatment plan tailored to you.
Are there newer treatments for advanced liver cancer?
Yes — newer approaches such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy continue to improve options for people with advanced HCC. Your oncologist can discuss whether these are appropriate for you.
What should I ask my care team about treatment?
Consider asking about the goals of treatment, the benefits and risks of each option, possible side effects, and how treatment may affect your daily life. Your care team is there to help you decide.