Symptom 5: Swollen Abdomen
One might occasionally find their abdomen slightly bloated, maybe after a hefty meal or during certain times of the month. However, a persistently swollen abdomen, especially without a clear, benign cause, can be a red flag.
The abdomen houses many organs, but when talking about fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma, the spotlight is on the liver. A swollen abdomen in this context could be due to fluid accumulation, known as ascites. Ascites, while also related to other conditions, is a significant symptom when considering FHCC.
The liver produces a protein called albumin which keeps fluid in the bloodstream. A compromised liver might produce less albumin, leading to fluid seeping out into the abdomen. This fluid buildup is what causes the visible swelling. The sensation isn’t just about appearance. Ascites can exert pressure on other abdominal organs, leading to discomfort, breathlessness, or even pain.
But why does this fluid build up in the first place? The liver, affected by FHCC, might not function optimally. It could lead to increased pressure within its blood vessels, pushing plasma out into the abdominal cavity. The compromised liver can also fail to produce adequate amounts of albumin, further exacerbating the fluid accumulation. (5)
