Skip to Content

Liver cancer

The liver is your body's largest internal organ. It helps filter and circulate blood, removing toxins from your bloodstream. Liver cancer can severely limit these functions and cause additional health problems, so getting quick, effective treatment is critical.

Liver cancer care in Nashville, Tennessee

We're dedicated to helping you get through a liver cancer diagnosis.

Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at TriStar Health's liver specialists provide care and treatment throughout the Middle Tennessee region. It's what they do every day, working right alongside you with personalized treatment plans to make your road to recovery as smooth as possible.

Have cancer questions?

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated, confidential helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7.

Liver cancer symptoms

Like many cancers, symptoms of liver cancer are not common during the early stages. If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your primary care doctor as soon as you can. Symptoms may include:

  • Abdominal swelling
  • General weakness and fatigue
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • White, chalky stool

Liver cancer treatments and services

Whether you are experiencing liver cancer or liver failure as a result of liver cancer, the medical experts at our family of hospitals can help.

About liver cancer

Liver cancer occurs when cancer cells are found in the largest internal organ: the liver. The liver helps filter and circulate blood in your body and is also vital for removing toxins from your bloodstream.

Liver cancer begins in the cells of your liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer, begins in the main type of liver cell. Other types of liver cancer, such as hepatoblastoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, are less common.


Liver cancer risk factors

Liver cancer can develop from a variety of different conditions. Factors that increase the risk of primary liver cancer include:

  • Cirrhosis of the liver
  • Diabetes
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Exposure to mold-produced poisons
  • Hepatitis B or C infections
  • Inherited liver diseases
  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Other risk factors can include your sex, weight, race and long-term anabolic steroid use.


Liver cancer treatment

Oncologists treat liver cancer with both nonsurgical and surgical options. Depending on the stage, liver cancer can be treated using:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Hepatobiliary surgery
  • Radiation therapy

Cancer support

Having a cancer diagnosis affects more than your physical health. We'll be a helping hand for all the aspects of your journey.

When you are diagnosed, a nurse navigator will help you understand your treatment options and coordinate care with your medical team. Additionally, we can connect you to various cancer support groups throughout the Greater Nashville area.

About Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Network of HCA Healthcare, our family of facilities offer integrated cancer programs with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for those facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology experts ensure you have access to locally-trusted care with the support of a globally-recognized network.

Find a Sarah Cannon location near you 

askSARAH Helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (352) 339-7000.

Looking for a location?

We also offer quality care at these other locations in our extended network.
View All Specialty Locations

Our Locations

We didn't find any facilities that matched your search

Please enter a new search using more specific search criteria.

Thrive Blog

Read our blogs to learn about preventive care and ways you can lead a healthier lifestyle.

Creating strong support networks during and after cancer treatment 

June 24, 2024
Amy J. Ware, MHA, MEd, FACHE
A comprehensive support system is vital for anyone navigating life after cancer.

Health literacy: How to unlock its power during a cancer journey 

March 19, 2024
Advocating for yourself is key when faced with a cancer diagnosis. We break down the how-to of health literacy.