Liver lesions refer to abnormal areas or growths in the liver that can appear on medical imaging scans such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These lesions can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Here are some common types of liver lesions
Hemangiomas
These are the most common benign liver tumours. They are made up of tangled blood vessels and are usually asymptomatic and do not require treatment unless they are large or causing symptoms.
Hepatic adenomas
Another type of benign tumour that can develop in the liver, often related to oral contraceptive use or certain metabolic conditions.
Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH)
Another benign tumour, often seen in women, which consists of normal liver cells but in an abnormal arrangement.
Hepatic cysts
Fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the liver. These are typically benign and may not cause symptoms unless they become large or rupture.
Liver metastases
These are cancerous lesions that have spread (metastasised) to the liver from other parts of the body, most commonly from the colon, pancreas, stomach, lung, or breast.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
This is the most common type of primary liver cancer, arising from hepatocytes (liver cells). It often develops in the setting of chronic liver disease such as cirrhosis.
Liver lesions can vary in size, number, and appearance. Often, further evaluation through imaging studies and sometimes biopsy is needed to determine the nature of the lesion (benign or malignant) and guide appropriate management.
Management of liver lesions depends on their type, size, location, and the underlying liver condition of the patient. Therefore, it’s crucial for individuals with liver lesions to undergo thorough evaluation and management under the guidance of healthcare professionals such as hepatologists, gastroenterologists, or oncologists, depending on the nature of the lesions.