Home > Blog >Can Liver Cysts Be a Sign of Liver Cancer?

Can Liver Cysts Be a Sign of Liver Cancer?

Liver cysts are a great cause of concern for a lot of patients. Reason? They fear that these cysts might be the early signs of liver cancer. So what exactly is the fact? Are cysts an early sign of liver cancer? Well, that’s the question we get asked a lot as leading specialists in gastroenterology and cancer treatment. So we are here with a detailed answer to this question and many more related to the liver cyst and liver cancer.

Let’s get started.

What Are Liver Cysts?

Liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in the liver. They are among the most common conditions seen in gastroenterology. Studies show that 5-10% of the healthy population has liver cysts. Many liver cysts are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any symptoms. Often, they are discovered incidentally during health check-ups or imaging tests like ultrasounds and CT scans performed for other reasons.

Patients often panic when they learn they have a liver cyst. They worry about whether the cyst is dangerous or if it could be cancerous. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about liver cysts.

What Is a Cyst?

A cyst is a sac filled with fluid. In medical terms, a cyst is a fluid-filled cavity with a wall surrounding it. Think of it like a balloon filled with water. Cysts can develop in any organ of the body, and liver cysts are quite common. Most liver cysts are congenital, meaning they are present from birth. These cysts often remain the same size throughout a person’s life and do not cause any problems.

Can Liver Cysts Turn Into Cancer?

The vast majority of liver cysts are benign and non-cancerous. About 95% of liver cysts fall into this category. These congenital cysts contain clear fluid and do not become cancerous. They can grow over time, but this is usually a slow process. Even when they grow, they rarely cause symptoms or problems.

However, a small percentage of liver cysts, less than 2%, may be suspicious for cancer. These cysts are known as biliary cystadenomas and have a very low chance of turning into cancer. If there is any doubt about the nature of a liver cyst, further imaging studies like ultrasounds or CT scans can help clarify whether the cyst is benign or needs further investigation.

Consult Dr. Aaditya Kulkarni,best liver cancer surgeon in pune for expert advice on liver cysts, their symptoms, and treatment options. Get the right care for your liver health today!

What Are the Symptoms of Liver Cysts?

Most liver cysts are asymptomatic and do not cause any symptoms. However, if a cyst becomes large, it can cause discomfort or pain in the right upper abdomen. Some cysts may cause symptoms if they:

1.Bleed: Cysts can occasionally bleed, leading to pain and swelling.

2.Press on Organs: Large cysts can press on nearby organs, causing discomfort.

3.Cause Jaundice: If a cyst blocks the bile ducts, it can cause jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and eyes.

How Are Liver Cysts Treated?

Treatment for liver cysts depends on their size and whether they cause symptoms. Most asymptomatic cysts do not require treatment. Regular monitoring with ultrasounds or CT scans can ensure they do not grow or cause problems. If a cyst becomes symptomatic, treatment options include:

• Aspiration: Draining the fluid from the cyst using a needle.
• Surgery: Removing the cyst surgically if it is large or causes significant symptoms.
• Biopsy: Taking a sample of the cyst wall to test for cancer if there are any suspicious features.

Can Liver Cysts Become Cancerous?

While the chances are very low, some liver cysts can become cancerous. This occurs in less than 2% of cases. If a cyst is found to be suspicious, further testing is required to determine its nature. Imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans can provide detailed information about the cyst. If necessary, a biopsy can be performed to analyze the cyst and rule out cancer.

What Should I Do If I Have a Liver Cyst?

If you are diagnosed with a liver cyst, there is usually no need to worry. Most liver cysts are benign and do not pose any health risks. However, it is important to follow up with your liver cancer doctor to monitor the cyst and ensure it does not grow or cause symptoms. If you experience any discomfort or symptoms like pain, jaundice, or swelling, consult your doctor promptly.

Your doctor may recommend regular imaging tests to keep an eye on the cyst. In some cases, they may suggest further testing or treatment if the cyst shows signs of growth or becomes symptomatic. Always communicate any concerns or symptoms you have with your healthcare provider.

Wrapping Up

Liver cysts are common and usually benign. The chances of a liver cyst turning into cancer are very low, less than 2%. Most liver cysts do not require treatment and can be monitored with regular imaging tests. But that does not mean you should leave them unattended. If you have any concerns or symptoms related to a liver cyst, consult your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

Remember, early detection and monitoring are key to managing liver cysts effectively. If you have any doubts about the same, do not hesitate to ask. Our experts are available round the clock. They will answer your queries as soon as possible.

Don’t leave liver cysts unchecked. Consult Dr. Aditya Kulkarni,Liver cyst specialist for expert evaluation, early detection, and personalized care. Reach out today for guidance!