Hepatocellular carcinoma, light micrograph. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignant tumour originating in the liver and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. It most commonly develops in people who with chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B or C. Tumour cells form trabeculae, cords, and nests separated by connective tissue septa.