Overview
A liver cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms within the liver. Most liver cysts are benign, asymptomatic, and discovered incidentally during imaging tests. While generally harmless, some cysts can grow large or cause symptoms, requiring medical attention.
What Is a Liver Cyst?
A liver cyst is a closed, sac-like structure filled with fluid that develops in liver tissue. These cysts can be simple (benign) or complex, with some associated with genetic conditions such as polycystic liver disease. They rarely affect liver function but can cause discomfort if large.
Symptoms
- Most liver cysts cause no symptoms
- Abdominal discomfort or fullness if cyst grows large
- Nausea or vomiting in rare cases
- Pain in the right upper abdomen
- Feeling of bloating or early satiety
Causes
- Congenital malformations of bile ducts leading to simple cysts
- Polycystic liver disease (genetic)
- Parasitic infections like echinococcosis (hydatid cyst)
- Trauma or injury to the liver
- Biliary obstruction or inflammation
Risk Factors
- Family history of polycystic liver or kidney disease
- Living in regions endemic for parasitic infections
- History of liver trauma or infections
Complications
- Infection of the cyst (cyst abscess)
- Rupture causing abdominal pain or internal bleeding
- Compression of nearby organs causing symptoms
- Rarely, cystic tumors may develop
Prevention
- No specific prevention for congenital cysts
- Avoid exposure to parasitic infections through proper hygiene and food safety
- Regular monitoring if cysts are known to detect complications early
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea provides comprehensive care for liver cysts including:
- Observation: Regular ultrasound or CT scans to monitor asymptomatic cysts.
- Percutaneous Aspiration: Draining cyst fluid under imaging guidance for symptomatic relief.
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution to prevent cyst recurrence after drainage.
- Surgical Removal: Laparoscopic or open surgery for large, symptomatic, or complicated cysts.
- Treatment of Parasitic Cysts: Antiparasitic medications combined with surgery or drainage.
- Advanced Diagnostics: High-resolution imaging for accurate diagnosis and planning.
Korean hepatology centers offer personalized management to ensure safe and effective care for patients with liver cysts.
