What are the symptoms of liver metastases?

Liver metastases often does not have any symptoms. Some people complain of abdominal discomfort, but most people do not notice anything unusual.

If symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Feeling weak
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness
  • Itching
  • Swelling of the legs (edema)

How is liver metastases diagnosed?

If your oncologist suspects your cancer has spread to the liver, he or she may order diagnostic tests, such as blood and urine tests. Your doctor will also ask you to undergo imaging tests, such as CT scans, ultrasounds, or PET scans.

Your oncologist may also decide to do a biopsy of the tumor. During this procedure, we will remove a tiny piece of tissue from a tumor or suspicious area and a pathologist will examine the tissue under a microscope to see if it has cancerous cells.

Have questions?

We're here to help answer any questions you or your family may have.

Language Preference / Preferencia de idioma

I want to see the site in English

Continue In English

Quiero ver el sitio en Español

Continuar en español