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    Liver Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment with a Liver Specialist in Dubai

    Umar khan
    Published on Jul 23, 2025

    Introduction

    Liver cancer is a serious disease that needs fast and expert care. It often starts silently, without clear symptoms in the early stages. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, there is hope. In Dubai, many patients trust Dr. Neil Philip Galletly, a leading liver specialist, for his expert care, advanced techniques, and personal approach.

    In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about liver cancer — what it is, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available. We will also guide you on how to choose the right liver specialist dubai and why early care with Dr. Neil Philip Galletly can make a big difference in your health journey.

    What Is Liver Cancer?

    Liver cancer starts in the cells of the liver. The liver is a large organ located on the right side of the belly. It plays a very important role in the body by:

    • Filtering harmful substances from the blood

    • Helping with digestion

    • Storing energy

    • Supporting the immune system

    There are two main types of liver cancer:

    1. Primary Liver Cancer – This means the cancer starts in the liver. The most common type is called hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

    2. Secondary Liver Cancer – This means the cancer has spread to the liver from another part of the body, such as the colon or breast.

    This article focuses on primary liver cancer, which needs expert care from a liver specialist like Dr. Neil Philip Galletly.

    Common Causes of Liver Cancer

    Liver cancer is often linked to long-term liver damage. This damage is called cirrhosis and it can be caused by:

    • Chronic hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection

    • Heavy alcohol use

    • Fatty liver disease (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH)

    • Genetic liver diseases like hemochromatosis

    • Long-term exposure to toxins, like aflatoxins in food

    Some people may not have clear risk factors but still develop liver cancer. That is why regular check-ups are important, especially if you have liver-related problems.

    Early Signs and Symptoms

    Liver cancer may not show clear signs in the early stages. But as the disease grows, some symptoms can appear. These may include:

    • Feeling very tired all the time

    • Loss of appetite

    • Weight loss without trying

    • Pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the belly

    • A swollen belly

    • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

    • Nausea or vomiting

    If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a liver specialist in Dubai as soon as possible. Dr. Neil Philip Galletly provides early and accurate diagnosis that helps in choosing the best treatment.

    How Liver Cancer Is Diagnosed

    Diagnosis of liver cancer usually involves a few key steps:

    1. Medical History and Physical Exam

    The liver specialist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They will also check for signs like belly swelling or yellow eyes.

    2. Blood Tests

    A special blood test can check for a tumor marker called AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), which may be higher in liver cancer patients. Liver function tests are also done to see how well the liver is working.

    3. Imaging Tests

    These tests give a detailed view of the liver and help find any tumors:

    • Ultrasound – Often the first test to spot abnormal growths.

    • CT scan – Gives a detailed image of the liver.

    • MRI scan – Helps in confirming the diagnosis and checking tumor size and spread.

    4. Biopsy (if needed)

    Sometimes a small piece of the liver is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm liver cancer.

    With the latest imaging technology and lab facilities, Dr. Neil Philip Galletly ensures accurate and timely diagnosis in Dubai.

    Treatment Options for Liver Cancer

    Liver cancer treatment depends on many things:

    • The size and location of the tumor

    • Whether the cancer has spread

    • How well the rest of the liver is working

    • The patient’s overall health

    Here are the main treatment options that Dr. Neil Philip Galletly offers:

    1. Surgery

    Liver resection (removing part of the liver) is possible if the tumor is small and the rest of the liver is healthy. This is often the best chance for a cure.

    For some patients, a liver transplant may be recommended. In this case, the diseased liver is replaced with a healthy donor liver.

    2. Ablation Therapy

    These methods destroy cancer cells without surgery. They are ideal for small tumors or patients who cannot have surgery:

    • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) – Uses heat to kill cancer cells.

    • Microwave ablation – Similar to RFA but with microwave energy.

    • Cryoablation – Freezes cancer cells to destroy them.

    3. Embolization Therapy

    Used when surgery is not possible. It blocks the blood supply to the tumor so it cannot grow:

    • TACE (Transarterial chemoembolization) – Delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumor.

    • Radioembolization (TARE) – Delivers radiation therapy directly to the tumor through blood vessels.

    4. Targeted Therapy

    These are newer medicines that block the growth of cancer cells. Examples include:

    • Sorafenib

    • Lenvatinib

    Dr. Neil Philip Galletly carefully chooses the right drug based on your cancer’s genetic features and your liver health.

    5. Immunotherapy

    This is a newer approach that helps your immune system fight cancer. It is often used in advanced liver cancer or when other treatments have not worked.

    Personalized Treatment Plans with Dr. Neil Philip Galletly

    Every patient is different. That’s why Dr. Neil Philip Galletly creates a personalized treatment plan for each person. He works closely with other liver specialists, surgeons, radiologists, and cancer care teams in Dubai to give complete and expert care.

    Why Choose Dr. Neil Philip Galletly in Dubai?

    Choosing the right liver specialist is very important for liver cancer care. Here are the reasons why patients trust Dr. Galletly:

    • Over 25 years of experience in liver care

    • Specialized training in liver cancer diagnosis and treatment

    • Access to advanced tests and treatment technologies

    • Gentle and clear communication with patients and families

    • Personal attention and support through the treatment journey

    Dr. Galletly’s clinic in Dubai is fully equipped with modern facilities to offer high-quality care in a safe and comforting environment.

    Life After Treatment: Follow-up and Support

    Liver cancer treatment doesn’t end after surgery or medication. Patients need ongoing follow-up to:

    • Monitor for any return of cancer

    • Manage side effects of treatment

    • Support liver health through lifestyle changes

    Dr. Neil Philip Galletly offers regular follow-up plans, nutrition guidance, and emotional support to help patients recover and live well after treatment.

    Tips to Protect Your Liver Health

    While not all cases of liver cancer can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

    • Getting vaccinated for hepatitis B

    • Treating hepatitis B or C early

    • Avoiding excessive alcohol

    • Maintaining a healthy weight

    • Managing diabetes or high cholesterol

    • Eating a balanced, low-fat diet

    • Going for regular liver check-ups if you have liver disease

    Early care is key. If you are at risk or have liver issues, don’t wait. Book an appointment with Dr. Neil Philip Galletly in Dubai.

    Final Thoughts

    Liver cancer is a serious but treatable disease — especially when it is diagnosed early. With expert care from a trusted liver specialist like Dr. Neil Philip Galletly, you or your loved one can receive the best possible care in Dubai. From accurate diagnosis to advanced treatment and compassionate support, Dr. Galletly is here to guide you every step of the way.