How can a tumor in the liver be identified and diagnosed?

Scans: Ultrasound, ct scan with contrast and mri, MRI being the most accurate for anything greater than 2cm. A blood test for AFP can detect hepatocellular carcinoma as well.

Include biopsy: As noted, imaging of a lesion >2cm with an elevation of AFP is diagnostic of hepatocellular carcinoma. Depending on the type of lesion, MRI and triple-phase contrast ct can suggest diagnoses, but usually a biopsy is required depending on the level of clinical suspicion and the context to make an actual diagnosis. Detection by itself is most sensitive by intraoperative ultrasound.