Angiosarcoma of the Liver: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Angiosarcoma of the Liver?
A gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system and liver and is often involved in evaluating liver tumors. Treatment is usually planned by a team that can include a surgeon, an oncologist, and a hepatologist. Because this cancer is rare, many patients are treated at large cancer centers.
What it is
Angiosarcoma of the liver is a rare cancer that starts in the cells lining the blood vessels inside the liver. In angiosarcoma, those cells grow out of control and form a tumor.
Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms at first. When symptoms do appear, they can include pain or fullness in the upper right part of the belly, swelling of the belly, feeling tired or weak, and weight loss without trying. The skin and eyes may look yellow, which is called jaundice. These symptoms can also come from many other conditions.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not always know why this cancer develops. Long-term exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to some cases, including vinyl chloride and thorium dioxide, once used in medical imaging. Anabolic steroids have also been linked to liver tumors. It is more common in older adults and in men.
How doctors diagnose it
Diagnosis usually starts with a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. To confirm the diagnosis, a doctor usually takes a small sample of the tumor, called a biopsy, which is examined under a microscope, often by a specialist.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how far the cancer has grown and on the person's overall health. Surgery may be an option if the cancer is found early and has not spread. Chemotherapy is often used, and radiation therapy may be used in some cases. This cancer can be hard to treat because it is often found at a later stage.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with lasting pain in the upper belly, unexplained weight loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or swelling of the belly should see a doctor. These symptoms usually have causes other than cancer, but they should be checked.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either one can order initial tests, watch symptoms over time, and coordinate records between specialists, and would refer the patient to a gastroenterologist and a cancer center when a tumor is found or suspected.
Common questions
Is angiosarcoma of the liver common?
No, it is very rare. It makes up only a small fraction of all liver cancers. Most liver tumors are different types with different treatments.
Can it be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent it. Avoiding long-term exposure to certain industrial chemicals may lower risk for some people. Not using anabolic steroids may also help. Many cases happen without any known cause.
Is it the same as other liver cancers?
No. It starts in blood vessel cells, while the most common liver cancer starts in liver cells. That difference changes how the tumor looks under a microscope and how doctors treat it.
Can it come back after treatment?
It can return in some people. That is why doctors use follow-up visits and imaging tests after treatment. How often follow-up happens depends on each person's case. Results differ from person to person.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
