Liver Cysts Symptoms

A simple fluid filled cyst in liver, known as hepatic cyst, can be benign and asymptomatic. Some irregularities during fetal development may lead to formation of a cyst on liver. Mostly, liver cysts do not lead to health problems. But as liver promotes filtration of blood, removal of toxins and free radicals, and absorption of essential nutrients; excessive growth of cysts can affect its function seriously.

Liver Cysts

Causes
Hepatic cysts present at the time of birth are called congenital cysts. Hereditary diseases, like hepatic fibrosis, can result in the formation of liver cysts. A congenital disease named 'Polycystic liver disease' can result in development of several cysts on liver. It can also hamper the function of kidneys. Formation of benign cysts in the bile ducts can be caused by another congenital disease called choledochal cysts. Middle-aged women are more prone to cystadenoma. Development of cysts on liver and kidneys is possible in this situation. Genetic disposition is also responsible for the Caroli's disease which results in hepatic cysts. One of the important liver cysts causes is the parasite Echinococcus granulosus. The infection caused by this parasite can lead to formation of cysts. The larvae of this parasite enwrap themselves in cysts. These cysts are called hydatid cysts which can lead to abdominal discomfort and pain, the common liver cysts symptoms. Cancer is the most horrifying disease which can lead to formation of tumors. A tumor is likely to be misdiagnosed as liver cyst. So one should undergo all the tests ordered by the doctor. Correct diagnosis can help plan correct treatment.

Symptoms
Liver cysts are generally asymptomatic. People usually come to know about them when they undergo some tests for detecting the cause of some other health problems. Bacterial infections can turn the fluid filled cysts into cysts filled with puss and blood. Infections can make them grow and exhibit symptoms. Commonly noticed liver cysts symptoms are listed below:

• Stomach upset
• General discomfort
• Mild to severe pain in the abdomen, especially in the upper right part of the abdomen where liver is located.
• Digestive system problems like nausea and diarrhea.
• Constant feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen, pressure in the abdomen
• Enlarged liver
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Pain in the right side of upper quadrant, even in shoulder
• Infection leading to bloating and pain
• Obstruction of the bile ducts
• Large cysts can be felt with hand

Occurrence of liver cysts and pain is many times attributed to bleeding cysts. When the cysts start bleeding, the person experiences sharp pain. When the cysts grow and become infected, the person experiences more pain and discomfort. Larger cysts can lead to increased pressure in the abdomen. They can cause abdominal distention. But such cases are rare.

Treatment
In most of the cases of liver cysts, no treatment is required. The treatment, when necessary, may vary according to the cause. Generally, large and painful hepatic cysts are drained by the doctor. In some severe cases, surgical removal of the cysts helps relieve the symptoms. Symptoms which exhibit infection, can be lowered with the help of antibiotics. Doctors usually prescribe medications that help kill the parasite causing these cysts. In case of poly-cystic liver disease, if the number of cysts is extremely large, then liver transplant is the only way of getting rid of the symptoms.

If you notice swelling and pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, then you should immediately consult your physician. Persistent pain in the right upper abdomen should not be overlooked.