Overview
Benign liver tumours are common and most cause no symptoms or harm. Some types need monitoring or treatment because they can grow, bleed or rarely become cancerous.
Symptoms
- Usually no symptoms
- Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen with larger tumours
- A feeling of fullness
- Sudden pain if a tumour bleeds
Causes and risk factors
Common types are haemangiomas, focal nodular hyperplasia and hepatic adenomas. Adenomas are linked to oral contraceptives and anabolic steroids.
Diagnosis
Ultrasound, CT and MRI scans identify the type. A biopsy is rarely needed.
Treatment
Most need no treatment. Adenomas may need stopping oral contraceptives, monitoring or surgery. Large or symptomatic tumours may be removed.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a liver lesion has been found on a scan. Seek urgent care for sudden severe abdominal pain.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
