What is the most common primary malignancy of the liver?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is recognized as the most common primary malignancy of the liver. This type of cancer originates from the hepatocytes, the main functional cells of the liver. HCC is strongly associated with underlying liver diseases, particularly chronic hepatitis B and C infections, and conditions like cirrhosis caused by various etiologies, including alcohol use or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

The prevalence of HCC is significant worldwide, especially in parts of Asia and Africa, highlighting its clinical importance. Its diagnosis can be bolstered by imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT, or MRI, where characteristic features may be observed.

In contrast, conditions like cholangiocarcinoma, hepatic adenoma, and cavernous hemangioma, while they can affect the liver, do not occur with the same frequency as HCC. Cholangiocarcinoma arises from the bile ducts and is less common than HCC, whereas hepatic adenomas are benign tumors often associated with hormonal influences and are relatively rare. Cavernous hemangioma is also a benign vascular tumor of the liver and is very common but not malignant.

Thus, due to its origin from liver cells, its association with chronic liver conditions, and its prevalence,