What causes liver metastases?

The liver receives a large blood supply, including blood draining from the digestive system. Cancer cells can detach from a primary tumour, enter blood or lymphatic vessels, and settle in liver tissue. They may then form one or more secondary deposits. Bowel cancer is a very common source of liver metastases, and pancreatic cancer is another recognised source.

Liver metastases are not the same as a primary liver cancer: the cells retain features of the cancer where they began. Some people have no liver symptoms, while others notice abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, weight change, jaundice, or unusual tiredness. Symptoms cannot identify the source by themselves.

If imaging shows a liver lesion in someone with cancer, the oncology team may review earlier scans, arrange contrast imaging, and consider a biopsy or blood tests. They assess the number and position of liver deposits, whether cancer is present elsewhere, and the biology of the original tumour.

Treatment is chosen for the primary cancer and the pattern of spread. Options may include medicines that circulate through the body, procedures directed at liver deposits, surgery in selected situations, or symptom-focused care. Ask which findings determine the recommendation.

Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, new confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, marked yellowing, fever with shaking chills, or inability to keep fluids down. These symptoms can signal bleeding, infection, blockage, or significant liver dysfunction.

Where did the cancer begin? How will you confirm that a liver lesion is metastatic? How many deposits are present, and is there disease elsewhere? Which treatment aims to control the cancer and which aims to relieve symptoms?