Which treatment approach is typically avoided for hepatocellular carcinoma due to risks?

In the context of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), surgical biopsy is typically avoided due to the associated risks. HCC is often diagnosed based on imaging studies and laboratory tests rather than through invasive procedures like biopsies. The primary concern is that performing a surgical biopsy may not only pose risks of bleeding and infection but could also potentially spread the cancer cells, especially in a liver that may already be compromised due to cirrhosis or other liver diseases. Instead, non-invasive methods, such as MRI or CT scans, are preferred for diagnosis and staging of HCC to minimize the risk of complications and unnecessary exposure to surgical interventions.

In contrast, treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy can be employed, albeit with considerable caution and not as first-line options, due to their potential effects on liver function. Immunotherapy may also be used in some cases as newer treatment options are developed. However, due to their risks and the nature of the disease, a surgical biopsy is particularly avoided.