What is a Liver Cyst?
A liver cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms inside the liver. Liver cysts can vary in size and number. Some cysts are small and asymptomatic, while others may become larger and cause symptoms. Most liver cysts are benign (non-cancerous), but in rare cases, they can become cancerous.
Causes of Liver Cysts:
- Congenital Cysts: Some cysts are present from birth due to defects in the formation of bile ducts.
- Polycystic Liver Disease: A genetic disease in which a large number of cysts form in the liver.
- Parasitic Infections: Infections such as hydatid cysts (caused by the Echinococcus parasite) can cause liver cysts.
- Liver Injury: Injury or trauma to the liver can also lead to cyst formation.
Symptoms of Liver Cysts:
Many liver cysts do not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other problems. However, if a cyst grows large, it may cause the following symptoms:
- Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- Feeling of fullness or bloating in the abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) if bile ducts are blocked
- Fever if the cyst is infected
Diagnosis of Liver Cysts:
- Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging method that uses sound waves to visualize the cysts.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): More detailed imaging that can show the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): High-detail imaging used for diagnosing complex cysts.
- Blood Tests: To assess liver function and detect infections.
Treatment of Liver Cysts:
Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and type of the cyst. Many small, asymptomatic cysts do not require treatment and only need to be monitored periodically.
- Medication:
- Anti-parasitic Drugs: To treat cysts caused by parasitic infections such as hydatid cysts.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Needle Aspiration: Using ultrasound or CT guidance, a needle is inserted into the cyst to drain the fluid. This method may be temporary, and the cyst can refill.
- Aspiration with Sclerotherapy: After draining the cyst, a substance is injected into it to prevent refilling.
- Surgery:
- Cyst Removal: If the cyst is large or causes serious symptoms, surgery may be necessary to remove it. In some cases, a portion of the liver containing the cyst may be removed.
- Laparoscopy: Surgery using small incisions and specialized instruments to remove the cyst.
Post-Treatment Care:
- Regular Follow-Up: To check for cyst recurrence or changes.
- Care of Surgical Wound: If surgery was performed.
- Proper Nutrition: To help with recovery and strengthen the immune system.
- Adequate Rest: For full recovery after treatment.
