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Liver Cysts

Benign lesions defined as fluid-filled sacs in the liver, mostly with an asymptomatic course.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Liver Cysts?

Liver cysts are generally thin-walled, fluid-filled structures formed within the liver tissue. Simple cysts are the most common type and are of congenital origin.

Hydatid cyst (echinococcosis) is a special type of cyst formed in the liver by the larvae of a parasite called Echinococcus granulosus. This type, relatively common in Türkiye, is transmitted through food or water contaminated with dog feces.

Polycystic liver disease is of genetic origin and causes the formation of numerous cysts throughout the liver, and may occur together with kidney cysts. Large or complicated cysts can cause jaundice, pain, or infection.

Symptoms

Usually asymptomatic; detected incidentally on ultrasound
Right upper abdominal pain or pressure sensation in large cysts
Nausea and early satiety (with large cysts pressing on the stomach)
Sudden severe pain and allergic reaction in hydatid cyst rupture
Fever and chills in infected cyst
Jaundice (in cysts pressing on the bile duct)

Risk Factors

Close contact with dogs and living in rural areas (for hydatid cyst)
Genetic history of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD)
Female sex (simple cysts are more common in women)
Advanced age
Immunosuppression (risk of infected cyst)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Evaluation for liver cyst detected on ultrasound
  • New-onset pain or swelling in the right upper abdomen
  • Fever together with abdominal pain
  • If rapid growth in cyst size is detected on imaging
  • Development of jaundice and dark-colored urine

Treatment Methods

01
In small simple cysts (<5 cm, asymptomatic), regular ultrasound follow-up is sufficient
02
In large symptomatic simple cysts, percutaneous aspiration-sclerotherapy (PAIR) or laparoscopic fenestration
03
In hydatid cyst, PAIR method or laparoscopic/open cystectomy + albendazole therapy
04
Percutaneous drainage and antibiotic therapy in infected liver abscess
05
Fenestration or liver transplantation in symptomatic polycystic liver
06
Diagnostic resection in suspected malignant cyst

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.