Hepatoblastoma

Hepatoblastoma is a rare malignant liver tumor that primarily affects children, typically under the age of five. It originates in the liver cells responsible for liver development during fetal growth. Though rare, hepatoblastoma is the most common pediatric liver cancer and requires specialized care for effective treatment.

The exact cause of hepatoblastoma is not fully understood, but some risk factors have been identified prematurity and low birth weight, genetic conditions such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and parental exposure to harmful substances (some studies suggest a potential link between parental chemical exposure and hepatoblastoma).

The early symptoms of hepatoblastoma can be subtle and often include:

Abdominal swelling or a noticeable mass
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Fatigue or weakness.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of

Blood tests (including alpha-fetoprotein levels)
Imaging studies such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans, and
Biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.

Treatment for hepatoblastoma is highly specialized and often involves a combination of:

Surgery – the goal is to remove the tumor completely if possible.
Chemotherapy – used before surgery (to shrink the tumor) and after surgery (to destroy any remaining cancer cells).
Liver transplantation – in cases where the tumor cannot be surgically removed, a liver transplant may be the best option.

With advancements in treatment, the prognosis for hepatoblastoma has significantly improved, with high survival rates exceeding for children receiving timely and comprehensive care.

At Karolinska University Hospital, our experienced team can provide comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.