What Is Stage IV NSCLC?

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can spread to other parts of the body, including the liver. This is called metastasis. When NSCLC spreads to the liver, it's still considered lung cancer, not liver cancer. The cancer cells in the liver are actually lung cancer cells. This spread typically occurs through the bloodstream. You may not be able to cure it, but treatments can ease your symptoms and make you more comfortable.

When NSCLC spreads to the liver, you may experience various symptoms. These can include pain in the upper right part of your abdomen, a feeling of fullness under your ribs, nausea, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Your skin or the whites of your eyes might turn yellow, a condition called jaundice.

To diagnose liver metastasis, your doctor may use several tests. These can include blood tests to check liver function, imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans, to visualize the liver, and sometimes a liver biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample of liver tissue is removed and examined under a microscope. Your doctor will explain which tests are necessary in your case and what the results mean for your overall treatment plan.

Treatment for NSCLC that has spread to the liver aims to control the cancer's growth and manage symptoms. Options may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. In some cases, radiation therapy might be used to shrink tumors in the liver. Your doctor will consider factors such as how much cancer is in the liver, your overall health, and previous treatments when deciding on the best approach.
 

Your doctor will closely monitor how your cancer responds to treatment. This may involve regular blood tests to check liver function and imaging scans to assess tumor size and spread. You'll have frequent checkups to discuss your progress and any new or changing symptoms. Keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor during these visits. This information helps your health care team adjust your treatment plan as needed.
 

Your doctor may prescribe medications to help with pain, nausea, or other symptoms. You may also get treatments to help you breathe easier, including oxygen therapy or a program called pulmonary rehabilitation that teaches you breathing methods to help you take in more oxygen with each breath. If you have lost your appetite, try eating several smaller meals throughout the day instead of three big ones.

Talking with others who understand what you're going through can be very helpful. Many hospitals have support groups for people with advanced cancer. You can also speak with a psychologist, therapist, or another member of your medical team to help you manage your emotions. Friends and family can be a source of help, too.