Liver Hemangioma

The most common benign vascular tumor of the liver.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

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 Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Liver Hemangioma?

Liver hemangioma is the most common benign tumor of the liver, originating from blood vessels. Its prevalence in the population is around 5-7%, and it is most often seen in women aged 30-50.

These are slow-growing, non-invasive lesions with no malignant potential. Hemangiomas under 4 cm in diameter are termed 'capillary', while those above 4 cm are termed 'giant hemangioma'.

Diagnosis is most often made by typical 'contrast enhancement' (centripetal filling) pattern on ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging; biopsy is contraindicated due to being both unnecessary and the risk of bleeding.

Symptoms

Mostly asymptomatic (incidental finding)

Mild pain in the right upper quadrant in large lesions

Early satiety and nausea

Fullness and mild mass effect in giant hemangiomas

Rarely thrombocytopenia and coagulopathy (Kasabach-Merritt syndrome)

Sudden abdominal pain (intratumoral bleeding, rare)

Liver function tests are usually normal

Risk Factors

Female sex

Age range 30-50

Estrogen-containing therapies and pregnancy

Familial vascular syndromes

Congenital vascular malformations

Genetic predisposition

Co-occurrence with some liver diseases

When to See a Doctor?

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

When a mass is detected on abdominal examination or imaging
If there is persistent pain in the right upper quadrant
If the lesion is rapidly growing
If thrombocytopenia accompanies
For evaluation if there is a pregnancy plan

Treatment Methods

No treatment needed in asymptomatic lesions (annual follow-up)

Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI for definitive diagnosis

Surgical resection or enucleation in symptomatic giant hemangiomas

Rarely transarterial embolization

Propranolol and systemic treatment in Kasabach-Merritt syndrome

Avoid biopsy (risk of bleeding)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.