Early diagnosis of liver cancer

Medical and Life Sciences Research funded trials with University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire and Leicester Royal Infirmary aim to aid in early diagnosis of liver cancer, Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

HCC is one of the leading causes of cancer related death globally.  There are 5500 HCC cases a year, which is around 15 cases per day in the UK. Often there are no symptoms in the early stages of HCC because the liver can work properly with only a small healthy portion. However, when the disease progresses abdominal pain, vomiting, jaundice and weight loss are common symptoms.

Dr Bannaga and his team will study the urine of HCC patients by analysis of the pattern of organic molecules and proteins. The potential benefit of this study will be in identifying low cost urinary diagnostic tests that can aid early detection and give the best opportunities for successful treatment.