Liver Cancer in Advanced Stages: Understanding the Final Stages

Liver cancer is one of the most common types of malignant tumors in China, accounting for nearly half of all global cases. Among cancer-related deaths in China, liver cancer ranks second in men and third in women, making it one of the leading causes of cancer mortality.

In the advanced stages of liver cancer, patients often experience severe symptoms that significantly impact their health. One of the primary complications is jaundice. As cancer cells grow and block the bile ducts, obstructive jaundice can develop. In later stages, jaundice becomes severe, causing the patient's skin and eyes to turn a deep yellow. This condition indicates serious liver dysfunction and can contribute to the patient's decline.

Another critical issue in late-stage liver cancer is coagulation failure and internal bleeding. The liver plays a key role in producing clotting factors, and when its function deteriorates—especially in patients with underlying cirrhosis—bleeding disorders may occur. Symptoms can include gum bleeding, bruising under the skin, and potentially life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding.

Additionally, liver failure leads to the accumulation of toxic substances in the body. When the liver can no longer effectively process metabolic waste, such as byproducts of amino acid metabolism, these toxins can build up in the bloodstream and reach the brain. This condition is known as hepatic encephalopathy. In its most severe form, it can result in confusion, coma, and ultimately death.

In summary, the most common causes of mortality in advanced liver cancer patients include severe jaundice, uncontrolled bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy due to liver failure. These complications highlight the importance of early detection and treatment to improve patient outcomes.