Hepatoma, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a type of cancer that originates in the liver cells (hepatocytes). 

It is the most common form of primary liver cancer and can develop in the context of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. 

Hepatoma refers to cancer cells growing in the liver and can be subdivided into various types, including primary hepatoma. 

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🧬 What Is Hepatoma?

• The term hepatoma is often used synonymously with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• HCC is the most common primary malignant tumor of the liver, meaning it originates in the liver itself rather than spreading from another organ.
• It arises from hepatocytes, the main functional cells of the liver.

🩺 Disease vs. Tumor

• A tumor refers to an abnormal growth of cells, which can be benign or malignant.
• A disease is a broader term that includes any condition that impairs normal function—so hepatoma is a tumor that is part of the disease category of liver cancer.

So, while hepatoma is a tumor by definition, it’s also considered part of a disease process when discussing liver cancer as a whole. If you're exploring liver health or cancer risks, I can walk you through symptoms, risk factors, or even screening options. Want to go deeper into that?