As you cope with cancer and cancer treatment, we encourage youto have honest, open discussions with your doctor. Feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how small it might seem. Here are some questions you might want to ask. Be sure to add your own questions as you think of them. Nurses, social workers, and other members of the treatment team may also be able to answer many of your questions.

• What kind of liver cancer do I have? (There are different types of liver cancer. Also, there are certain subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma such as the fibrolamellar variety that carry a better prognosis than others.)
• Has my cancer spread beyond my liver?
• What is the stage of my cancer, and what does that mean in my case?
• Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?
• Can my cancer be removed with surgery?
• How well is my liver functioning?
• What treatment choices do I have?
• What do you recommend and why?
• What risks or side effects are there to the treatments you suggest?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• How long will treatment last? What will it involve? Where will it be done?
• How will treatment affect my daily activities?
• What are the chances my cancer will recur with these treatment plans?
• What would we do if the treatment doesn't work or if the cancer recurs?
• What type of follow-up would I need after treatment?

In addition to these sample questions, you might want to write down some of your own. For instance, you might want to ask about second opinions or about clinical trials for which you may qualify.

Last Medical Review: 11/05/2009
Last Revised: 11/05/2009