Lung cancer moved to liver

Liver deposits are also called liver metastases. They are lung cancer cells in the liver, rather than a new primary liver cancer. Some people have no liver-related symptoms and discover the deposits on imaging. Others may develop right-sided abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, nausea, tiredness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or itching. These changes can have other causes. The clinical picture depends on the amount and position of liver involvement, the lung cancer subtype, other spread, and liver function. Read more about [Lung Cancer](/conditions/lung-cancer/).

The team may review scans, blood tests, pathology, and treatment history before recommending a plan. [Genomic Tumour Profiling](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/genomic-tumour-profiling/) can sometimes identify a treatment direction. Options may include systemic medicines such as [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), targeted or immune treatment, and radiotherapy for a troublesome area. Surgery is considered selectively; a [Lung Lobectomy](/treatments/surgical-oncology/lung-lobectomy/) is a procedure for the lung and is not the same as treating liver deposits. [Palliative Care](/treatments/supportive-and-palliative-care/palliative-care/) can help with symptoms and wellbeing.

Tell the care team promptly about yellow skin or eyes, increasing abdominal swelling, persistent vomiting, confusion, unusual bleeding, or rapidly worsening weakness. Seek emergency help for severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, collapse, or sudden confusion. Take prescribed medicines as directed and check before using new medicines or supplements, because liver function can affect how the body handles them.

How extensive is the liver involvement? Is liver function affected? Which pathology or genomic findings guide treatment? What symptoms should trigger an urgent call?