Metastatic Liver Cancer

Metastatic liver cancer, also known as secondary liver cancer, begins as a primary cancer in another organ outside of the liver, and eventually migrates to the liver.

In fact, the liver is the most common site (after the lymph nodes) for cancers to spread. Most of these originate from cancers of the eye, colon, rectum, pancreas, stomach, esophagus, breast, lung, melanoma and some other less common sites.

Risk Factors for Metastases to the Liver

Most cancers can metastasise to the liver. The following primary cancer sites are those most likely to cause liver metastases:

  • Colon/Rectum
  • Stomach
  • Esophagus
  • Pancreas
  • Breast
  • Lung
  • Melanoma
  • Eye

Symptoms of Metastases to the Liver

Often, secondary liver cancer does not cause symptoms during early stages. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms associated with liver disease often develop, including:

  • Pain in the upper abdomen on the right side; the pain may extend to the back and shoulder
  • Swollen abdomen (bloating)
  • Weight loss, loss of appetite and/or feelings of fullness
  • Weakness and/or fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Yellow skin and eyes, and dark urine from jaundice
  • Fever

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek proper evaluation and treatment from a healthcare expert experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.

Expert Care You Can Trust!

The Hoag Digestive Disease Center, in alliance with USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, continues to lead the way in complex gastrointestinal care, providing access to a highly specialized surgical team that works collaboratively with Hoag-affiliated GI and medical oncology specialists to provide academic-level care. Hoag’s committed to accurate diagnosis, combined with progressive therapeutic options enables Hoag patients to achieve some of the highest clinical outcomes in the nation.

To schedule a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, or a second-opinion consultation with a Hoag gastrointestinal expert, visit Meet the Team, or call us at: 949-764-5350.