Liver cancer is usually diagnosed via the following:

• Blood test

• Abdominal ultrasound

  Sound waves are used to create a picture of the liver.

• CT scan (CAT or computer scan)

  X-ray is used to scan the liver at different angles to build a detailed picture of the size and position of the cancer.

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI or NMR scan)

  A magnet field and radio waves build a cross-sectional pictures of your body to locate and observe the cancer.

• Angiogram

  In this test, a dye is injected into your bloodstream. The dye shows up on X-ray and reveals abnormalities in the liver's blood supply.

• Liver biopsy

  Doctors will use a needle to take a few cells, or a small piece of tissue, from the liver which will be examined under the microscope for cancer cells.