Screening for Liver and Bile Duct Cancers

You may have screening for liver and bile duct cancers if you have an elevated risk of these diseases due to chronic hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, a family history of liver or bile duct cancer, or a condition such as primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Routine screening for the general population is not widely practiced, but people at high risk may benefit from regular check-ups that include tests such as:

  • Ultrasound: Regular abdominal ultrasounds may detect early signs of liver cancer, particularly in people with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.
  • Blood tests: Tests to check levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and liver function are useful for identifying possible liver abnormalities.
  • CT or MRI scans: Advanced imaging techniques can provide detailed views of the liver and bile ducts and are used to further evaluate any abnormalities found during screening exams.

Diagnosing Liver and Bile Duct Cancers

If you have signs or symptoms of liver or bile duct cancer, your doctor may use these tests to accurately identify and stage the disease, including:

  • Liver biopsy: A procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the liver or bile duct and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer as well as its type and grade. 
  • Cholangiography: A specialized imaging technique to visualize the bile ducts and detect blockages or tumors.
  • Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that facilitates direct visualization of the liver and surrounding organs to obtain tumor tissue for biopsy and to see if a cancer has spread.
  • Genetic testing: May be performed to assess the genetic makeup of a tumor. This information helps our doctors determine which medications may be most effective for you.