Why does the abdomen become enlarged in advanced liver cancer?

The main reasons for abdominal distension in late-stage liver cancer are as follows: 1. **Ascites**: In the late stages of liver cancer, abnormally increased portal venous pressure and low albumin levels may lead to the formation of ascites. In severe cases, this can compress the abdominal cavity, abdominal wall, and intestines, causing significant abdominal distension. 2. **Indigestion**: Patients with advanced liver cancer often experience impaired digestive function and slowed gastrointestinal motility, which can cause food to remain in the stomach and intestines, leading to abdominal distension. 3. **Gastrointestinal gas accumulation**: Gas buildup in the gastrointestinal tract can also contribute to abdominal enlargement. 4. **Tumor growth**: In late-stage liver cancer, the rapid growth of the tumor can cause abdominal distension when the tumor becomes large in size. These symptoms not only affect the patient's physical health but may also increase their psychological burden. Therefore, patients with advanced liver cancer should actively cooperate with their physicians' treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.