Liver Cyst
Fluid-filled cavities in the liver, usually benign but occasionally requiring treatment if symptomatic.
Overview
Simple hepatic cysts are common (5% of population), benign, and usually require no treatment. Intervention is needed for large symptomatic cysts, cystadenomas (premalignant), or complications. Must be differentiated from hydatid cysts and cystic tumors.
Causes
- Congenital (developmental)
- Polycystic liver disease
- Cystadenoma/cystadenocarcinoma (neoplastic)
- Post-traumatic
- Parasitic (hydatid — different entity)
Risk Factors
- Female gender
- Age over 50
- Polycystic kidney disease
- No known modifiable risk factors for simple cysts
Symptoms
Diagnosis
- Ultrasound (first-line — simple cyst criteria)
- CT/MRI (if complex features)
- Serology (to rule out hydatid)
- Tumor markers if cystadenoma suspected
Treatment Options
Surgical Treatment
Simple cysts: laparoscopic deroofing (fenestration) is the standard for symptomatic cysts — removes the cyst dome leaving the base intact. Very large cysts or cystadenomas require formal hepatic resection. Polycystic liver: combined resection-fenestration or liver transplantation for severe cases.
Recovery
Laparoscopic deroofing: 1-2 days hospital stay. Recurrence rate 5-10%. Hepatic resection: 5-7 days. Excellent long-term outcomes.
Prevention
- No prevention for congenital cysts
- Regular imaging surveillance for polycystic liver disease
- Differentiate from hydatid cyst (treat dogs in endemic areas)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do liver cysts need treatment?
Can a liver cyst become cancer?
Expert Consultation Available
Get personalized treatment advice from Dr. Bhagat. Book an appointment or connect via WhatsApp for a quick consultation.