Liver cancer. Ultrasound scan of secondary cancers that have invaded a 71-year-old woman's liver. The front of the body is at top, the head (not seen) is at left. The liver (centre left) is the triangular grey shape with a darker grey outline. The secondary cancers are the darker areas within this area. The spread (metastasis) of a cancer from its original (primary) site may occur through the bloodstream, the lymphatic system or across body cavities. Systemic (whole body) treatment, such as chemotherapy, is then required. Liver cancer prognosis is poor. Ultrasound scanning uses reflected high-frequency sound waves to build-up a picture of internal body structures.