What are the symptoms of liver metastases?

The liver can continue working while deposits are small, so symptoms may be absent or vague. As the liver or nearby bile ducts are affected, a person may notice discomfort under the right ribs, a feeling of fullness, nausea, loss of appetite, or unplanned weight loss. Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, or itching can occur when bile flow is reduced. These symptoms can have causes other than cancer; a symptom alone does not establish liver metastases.

Tell the oncology team about new or changing symptoms, including where pain is located, how long it has lasted, and whether eating or movement changes it. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests that reflect liver function, and imaging. The team may review the original cancer, such as Bowel Cancer or Pancreatic Cancer, when planning care. Treatments can include Chemotherapy, Liver Resection, or Tumour Ablation when appropriate for the individual situation.

Seek urgent medical help for new confusion, severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, marked sleepiness, bleeding, or yellowing that is rapidly increasing. Contact the treating team promptly for persistent Jaundice, worsening swelling, inability to keep fluids down, or a sudden decline in daily function.

Could these symptoms reflect liver involvement or another problem? Which tests will clarify the cause? What changes should prompt same-day advice? How might treatment affect appetite, pain, or bile flow?