Benign tumours of the liver - Tumours of the liver

Tumours of the liver

Benign tumours of the liver

Benign tumours of the liver must be differentiated from malignant tumours such as metastases or primary hepa-tocellular tumour and cysts or abscesses. There are four main types:

Cavernous haemangiomas are the most common benign tumours of the liver. Usually asymptomatic, they rarely become large and produce pain, enlarged liver or haemorrhage. They may be detected at ultrasound or at laparotomy. Biopsy may cause haemorrhage.

Hepatic adenomas are oestrogen dependent tumours generally only seen in women. They are strongly associated with the oral contraceptive pill. Usually asymptomatic, they may rupture causing intraabdominal bleeding and pain. Removal is advised because of difficulty differentiating them from a well-differentiated hepatoma.

Focal nodular hyperplasia is also seen more commonly in women and oestrogen plays a role.

Solitary simple liver cysts are rare but multiple liver cysts may be seen in patients with inherited polycystic kidney disease.