Liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop within the liver. These sacs are typically benign, meaning they are not cancerous. Individuals are often unaware they have liver cysts, as they frequently cause no symptoms and are discovered incidentally during medical imaging performed for other reasons.
Understanding Liver Cysts
A liver cyst is a thin-walled sac filled with fluid that forms in the liver tissue. These simple cysts are a common occurrence, affecting many people. Many are present from birth, while others may develop later in life. Generally, liver cysts do not impact the liver’s normal function.
They are typically isolated formations, though some individuals might develop multiple cysts as part of a genetic condition known as polycystic liver disease (PLD).
What is a Typical Liver Cyst Size?
Liver cysts exhibit a wide range of sizes, often varying from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Many simple liver cysts remain quite small, frequently measuring less than 3 centimeters, and are often detected incidentally. Their presence is quite common, with some estimates suggesting they occur in 5% to 18% of the population. For classification purposes, cysts under 3 cm are considered small, while those between 3-5 cm are medium-sized. The majority of liver cysts fall within these smaller categories.
Cysts can grow slowly over time, but a rapid increase in size might indicate internal bleeding. While most cysts are small and do not cause issues, some can reach substantial sizes, sometimes exceeding 5 centimeters or even becoming “giant” cysts measuring 10-20 centimeters. The size of a liver cyst is generally not indicative of malignancy, as simple cysts are overwhelmingly benign.
When Cyst Size Becomes a Concern
While most liver cysts remain harmless, their size can lead to noticeable symptoms. When a cyst grows larger, it can exert pressure on surrounding organs within the abdomen. This pressure can manifest as a dull ache or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.
Individuals might also experience a feeling of abdominal fullness or bloating. Larger cysts located near the stomach can cause early satiety, making a person feel full after eating only a small amount of food. In rare instances, an expanding cyst can cause nausea or vomiting. Complications such as rupture or bleeding into the cyst, though uncommon, can lead to sudden, severe abdominal pain.
Monitoring and Management of Liver Cysts
Liver cysts are typically identified through various imaging techniques. Ultrasound is often a common initial method, with CT scans and MRI frequently used for further characterization or to rule out other conditions.
For small, asymptomatic liver cysts, medical professionals often recommend a “watch and wait” approach. This involves periodic monitoring with imaging to observe any changes in size. If a cyst grows large enough to cause symptoms, interventions may be considered. These can include draining the fluid from the cyst or surgical removal, typically reserved for symptomatic cysts that significantly impact quality of life.