An Unusual Case of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Healthy Adolescent Male

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rare occurrence in adolescents, especially in those without underlying liver diseases. We present the case of a 16-year-old male, having no significant relevant previous medical history, who presented with signs and symptoms of an abdominal mass and hepatic dysfunction. Diagnostic investigations unveiled a startling finding of HCC, challenging the conventional understanding of this malignancy's epidemiology and etiology in young individuals. This example emphasizes the significance of taking HCC into account even in young, healthy individuals who present with unusual symptoms, leading to a comprehensive diagnostic examination and treatment plans customized to meet the specific requirements of patients in their adolescent years. HCC is thought to be more likely to develop in young patients with cirrhosis or fibrosis. The patient in this case study is a young 16-year-old male patient, who was diagnosed with HCC.