Liver Mass
Symptoms of Liver Masses
The liver is one of the organs that can regenerate itself. However, benign masses or malignant tumors can be found in the liver. Although primary tumors are rarely encountered in the liver, tumors developing from metastasis are very common. For detailed information, you can examine the page. Masses in the liver are generally benign. Although liver cancers are seen due to the spread of cancers from other organs via metastasis, liver cancer itself is also seen at a level that cannot be ignored. People with chronic hepatitis B and C, those with advanced fatty liver disease, and patients with cirrhosis are among the high-risk groups for liver masses.
How is a Liver Mass Diagnosed?
Liver masses do not show any symptoms or signs. They are incidentally discovered during imaging procedures performed for other reasons. The symptoms seen in liver masses can be listed as follows:
- Nausea-vomiting
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Weakness
- Jaundice and fever may be seen.
As we mentioned earlier, a large proportion of liver masses are detected incidentally during tests. In cases where cancer is suspected, the diagnosis can be confirmed by performing a biopsy on the patient. Since liver masses are generally benign, no surgical intervention is performed. Benign masses are usually monitored and observed. If the mass is a malignant tumor, then surgical intervention may be considered. If the patient and liver functions are suitable, the mass can be removed, or if the patient and liver functions are not suitable for mass removal, a liver transplant may be performed. In addition to surgical treatment, systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy can also be planned. Besides these, treatments such as immunotherapy, regional destruction of the mass with heat, cold alcohol injection, chemotherapeutic drugs, or radioactive spheres can also be added to the treatment plan.
