Hepatoblastoma

What Is Hepatoblastoma?

Hepatoblastoma is a rare, malignant liver tumor that primarily affects infants and young children, typically under the age of 3. It arises from immature liver cells and is the most common type of liver cancer seen in the pediatric population. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment offer the best chance for long-term survival and cure.

Though the cause is not always known, certain genetic conditions and low birth weight are considered risk factors. Symptoms may not be noticeable until the tumor becomes large or begins to impact liver function.

Signs and Symptoms

Common signs of hepatoblastoma include:

  • A noticeable mass or swelling in the upper right abdomen
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Poor appetite and weight loss
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Fever or general fatigue

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hepatoblastoma typically includes:

  • Physical examination to detect an abdominal mass
  • Blood tests, especially elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, which are a tumor marker
  • Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the liver and surrounding organs
  • Biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the tumor type

Treatment Options

Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy, with the goal of removing the tumor and any affected tissue. Treatment options may include:

  • Surgical resection to remove the liver tumor if possible
  • Neoadjuvant chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery
  • Liver transplant in cases where the tumor cannot be surgically removed
  • Post-operative chemotherapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells

Children with hepatoblastoma require long-term follow-up to monitor for recurrence and manage any side effects from treatment.

Divisions Involved in Your Care

Procedures We Use

Frequently Asked Questions

Hepatoblastoma is a rare liver cancer that occurs in young children, often under age 3. It originates from immature liver cells.

While the exact cause is often unknown, children with certain genetic syndromes, such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, or those with very low birth weight are at increased risk.

Treatment typically includes a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Yes, especially when diagnosed early. With aggressive treatment, many children achieve remission and long-term survival.

Common symptoms include abdominal swelling, a firm mass, pain, weight loss, poor appetite, and sometimes jaundice or vomiting.