Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular Carcinoma

What is fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma?

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma is a rare form of liver cancer that tends to affect adolescents and young adults with no history of liver issues. 

What are the symptoms of fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma?

Common symptoms include:

• Jaundice
• Weight loss
• Back and shoulder pain
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fatigue 

At times there is a tumor that can be felt from the outside, but this is not the case for every affected individual. 

What causes fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma?

Medical professionals are unsure as to how exactly this cancer occurs, but they do know that the DNAJB1 gene joins together with the PRKACA gene. They also do not know of any risk factors for this cancer, as it typically affects those with healthy livers. 

How is fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed?

The symptoms are not noticeable at first, making this cancer difficult to diagnose early. After one notices the symptoms, doctors will use imaging tests and biopsies to diagnose the cancer. Genetic testing of the DNAJB1 and PRKACA genes may be helpful as well. 

What are the treatments for fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma?

Surgery to remove the tumor is often the first step in treatment. If surgery is not an option or is unsuccessful, doctors may try chemotherapy or embolization therapy. 

Where can I find out more about fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma?

• • • Fibrolamellar Cancer Foundation
    • National Cancer Institute
    • NORD