Liver Cysts & Associated Complications

Liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs developing in your liver. They are relatively common and are often benign, meaning they do not cause any symptoms or complications. However, in some cases, they can cause discomfort or even lead to serious health problems. 

Liver cysts are most commonly caused by a condition known as polycystic liver disease. This is an inherited disorder in which numerous fluid-filled sacs form in the liver. These cysts can range in size from tiny to large and can affect the structure of the liver. Other causes of liver cysts include parasitic infections, metabolic diseases, and congenital abnormalities. Understanding the cause of a liver cyst can help with proper diagnosis and treatment.

●      Simple liver cysts: These are the most common type of liver cysts and are benign. They develop due to abnormal growth in the bile ducts. These cysts are typically small and do not cause any symptoms. They are often discovered incidentally during a routine medical exam or imaging study.

●      Polycystic liver disease: This is a rare genetic disorder that causes multiple cysts to develop in the liver. This can lead to an enlargement of the liver and can cause abdominal pain and discomfort. In some cases, the cysts can become large and cause pressure on surrounding organs, leading to difficulty breathing or pain in the right upper abdomen.

●      Parasitic cysts: These cysts develop due to an infection by a parasite, such as Echinococcus granulosus. These types of cysts are usually found in people who live in rural areas where there is a higher risk of exposure to parasites. These cysts can cause significant damage to the liver and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

How can you Identify Liver Cysts?

Many liver cysts are asymptomatic, which means they do not cause any symptoms. However, in some cases, a person may experience symptoms related to a liver cyst.

• Many asymptomatic liver cysts are discovered incidentally during a routine medical exam or imaging study.
• Some people with liver cysts may experience abdominal pain, discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. These symptoms usually occur when the cyst is large or causes pressure on surrounding organs. In some cases, the cyst may cause a feeling of fullness or bloating in the upper right abdomen.
• If the cysts cause a blockage, they can also cause pain in the back or shoulder.

What are the Associated Complications of Liver Cysts?

While most liver cysts do not cause any complications, in some cases, they can lead to serious health problems. It is essential to be aware of the potential complications associated with liver cysts so that prompt treatment can be sought if necessary.

• Simple liver cysts typically do not cause any complications. However, large cysts can cause discomfort or pain.
• Cysts that become infected or rupture can cause severe complications such as fever, abdominal pain, and sepsis.
• In rare cases, liver cysts can cause liver cancer. These cysts are called cystadenomas and are typically found in people over 50.

How are Liver Cysts Diagnosed & Treated?

If a person is experiencing symptoms related to a liver cyst or a cyst is found during a routine medical exam, a healthcare professional will typically order imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to diagnose the cyst and determine if it requires treatment. These imaging tests can provide detailed information about the cyst's size, shape, and location and any surrounding structures or organs.

Once a cyst is diagnosed, the healthcare professional will determine if treatment is necessary. If a cyst is causing symptoms or complications, it may be necessary to drain or remove it surgically. This can be done through a procedure called percutaneous aspiration and sclerotherapy (PAS), which involves draining the cyst and then injecting a substance that will cause the cyst to shrink.

In cases where the cyst is malignant, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The specific treatment plan will depend on the size and location of the cyst, as well as the overall health of the patient.

How can you Prevent Liver Cysts & Associated Complications?

In many cases, it is not possible to prevent the development of liver cysts. However, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce the risk of complications associated with cysts.

• Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to prevent the development of polycystic liver disease.
• Avoiding contact with parasites and practicing good hygiene can help to reduce the risk of parasitic cysts.
• Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional and routine imaging can help identify cysts early on before they can cause complications.

The Bottom Line

Liver cysts are relatively common and often benign, but they can cause serious health problems in some cases. You must consult a healthcare professional if you have symptoms or complications associated with a liver cyst. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with liver cysts can lead healthy and normal lives. It's vital to be aware of the potential causes, symptoms, and complications associated with liver cysts and to take steps to reduce the risk of severe health problems. With proper care and management, most people with liver cysts can enjoy a good quality of life.