Being diagnosed with liver cancer can feel overwhelming. In Canada, there’s a clear care pathway designed to make sure you receive the right diagnosis and treatment as quickly as possible. This pathway is built on trusted, evidence-based guidelines, so you and your healthcare team can move forward with confidence at every step of the journey.
Here are the steps to a liver cancer diagnosis and treatment in Canada:
Step 1: Screening and early signs of liver cancer
Primary care providers play an important role in the early stages of liver cancer diagnosis and care. They assess patients and determine if they are at an increased risk for developing liver cancer, particularly identifying those living with existing liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis. Findings lead to regular screening and checkups, including:
- Ultrasound scans to look for any noticeable changes in the liver.
- Blood tests, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and liver function tests (LFTs), to check for elevated liver enzymes, proteins, and substances in the blood.
If your doctor notices anything unusual during screening, the next step is to take a closer look with additional tests.
Step 2: Testing to confirm diagnosis
If your preliminary tests are unusual, your doctor will perform a series of additional tests to check the status of your liver and help confirm a liver cancer diagnosis. These include:
- CT scans or MRI scans which help doctors look for signs of tumours or other liver abnormalities.
- In some cases, a liver biopsy may be needed. This involves taking a small tissue sample from the liver to confirm the diagnosis.
Step 3: Referral to Specialist
If your doctor suspects liver cancer, they will refer you to a team of specialists for further care. This team may include a hepatologist, an oncologist, a surgeon and other healthcare professionals who will collaborate to create the most effective treatment plan for you.
Step 4: Following the provincial pathway for treatment
Many provinces in Canada have established treatment pathways for patients with liver cancer. These are clear step-by-step guides that outline who will be involved in your treatment journey, the testing and treatment options available, and the timing and locations for each stage of your treatment. These pathways are important aspects of the liver cancer patient treatment journey as they ensure all key aspects of your care is covered and that you receive the right treatment at the right time.
Download a copy of the Liver Cancer Pathway.
Navigating a liver cancer diagnosis can feel complex, but your healthcare team is there to guide you through every step of your journey
A note from Liver Canada
If you or someone you love is living with liver disease, talk to your doctor about regular screening. Early detection can make all the difference. To learn more about liver cancer, treatment options, and support resources, click here.
We are here for you, for every step of your liver health journey. If you need help navigating your diagnosis, please call our Toll Free Help Line at 1-800-563-5483.
