Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Liver Hemangioma

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Understanding Hemangioma of the Liver

A hemangioma of the liver is a non-cancerous tumor made up of a malformed network of veins. These tumors are rich in blood supply and can form cavities filled with blood. Most of the time, hemangiomas of the liver do not have symptoms and are usually found by accident when imaging is done for other reasons.

Liver hemangiomas range from very small (1/16 of an inch) to “giant” (around 8 inches). Smaller hemangiomas generally do not cause any concerns or symptoms. However, large hemangiomas often require surgery or other treatment since they may start compressing against adjacent organs, leading to complications.

Symptoms of Liver Hemangioma

As mentioned, a liver hemangioma typically does not have symptoms. They are usually only discovered when medical professionals carry out imaging for another purpose. When symptoms do occur, they are generally non-specific, meaning that they are not unique to the condition of liver hemangioma and could occur in many other health issues.

Some symptoms include abdominal pain in the upper right area, poor appetite, feeling full early, nausea, and vomiting. These are all generic symptoms, and tests are required to make a definitive diagnosis.

Causes and Diagnosis of Liver Hemangioma

The underlying cause of a liver hemangioma isn’t fully understood. There may be certain genetic factors that increase susceptibility. There are several theories about the mechanism of a liver hemangioma.

One or more imaging tests usually diagnose a liver hemangioma. Doctors typically use ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans to visualize the liver and look for signs of a hemangioma. More than one scan type may be required for more complex or unique cases. Doctors may also sometimes need to use contrast agents, dyes that help to visualize some liver structures better.

Risk Factors and Complications of Liver Hemangioma

Women are more likely to develop liver hemangiomas, possibly due to the role of estrogen. In fact, for every man who has the condition, there are five women. You may also be at a higher risk if you have a family member with liver hemangioma.

Complications of liver hemangioma are uncommon but can include inflammatory, mechanical, bleeding, and degenerative issues. Most liver hemangiomas do not require treatment, but when they do, options include restricting blood flow, surgical removal, and radiotherapy.

Conclusion

Liver hemangiomas are non-cancerous tumors that usually do not cause symptoms. However, complications can arise in larger or giant hemangiomas. Women are more likely to develop liver hemangiomas, and there may be a genetic component to the condition. Imaging tests are used to diagnose liver hemangiomas, and treatment options include restricting blood flow, surgical removal, and radiotherapy.