Overview
A liver hemangioma (he-man-jee-O-muh) is a noncancerous (benign) mass in the liver made up of a tangle of blood vessels. These liver masses are common and are estimated to occur in up to 20% of the population. Most cases of liver hemangiomas are discovered during an imaging study done for some other condition. People who have a liver hemangioma rarely experience signs and symptoms and typically don't need treatment.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of liver hemangioma may include pain in the upper right abdomen, feeling full after eating only a small amount of food (early satiety), nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. These symptoms are more likely to occur when the hemangioma causes complications such as bleeding or infection. However, in most cases, liver hemangiomas do not cause any signs or symptoms and do not require treatment.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing liver hemangioma include:
- Age: Liver hemangiomas are most commonly diagnosed in people ages 30 to 50.
- Sex: Women are more likely to be diagnosed with a liver hemangioma than men.
- Pregnancy: Women who have been pregnant are more likely to be diagnosed with a liver hemangioma than women who have never been pregnant. This may be linked to the rise in hormone estrogen during pregnancy.
- Hormone replacement therapy: Women who use hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms may be more likely to be diagnosed with a liver hemangioma than women who do not use hormone replacement therapy. for other risk factors , such as Alagille syndrome, infection, medications, drinking too much alcohol, or being overweight.
Development
Liver hemangiomas, also known as cavernous hemangiomas, are noncancerous masses in the liver comprised of a tangle of blood vessels. The exact cause of these liver masses is unknown, but they are believed to be present at birth (congenital). They can occur in up to 20% of the population and are typically discovered during imaging studies for other conditions. Most cases of liver hemangiomas are asymptomatic and do not require treatment. However, in rare instances, they can cause symptoms such as pain in the upper right abdomen, early satiety, nausea, or vomiting. These symptoms are generally nonspecific and could be due to other conditions as well. Risk factors for liver hemangioma development include age (commonly diagnosed in people aged 30-50), sex (women are more likely to be diagnosed than men), pregnancy (associated with hormone estrogen), and hormone replacement therapy. It is important to seek medical care if the hemangioma causes problems with important bodily functions like vision, breathing, hearing, or bathroom function in a child.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you experience any persistent signs and symptoms that worry you, you should make an appointment with your doctor. These symptoms may include pain in the upper right abdomen, feeling full after eating only a small amount of food (early satiety), nausea, or vomiting. However, it's important to note that these symptoms are often nonspecific and may be caused by other conditions. If you have been diagnosed with liver disease or cirrhosis, it's crucial to discuss your risk of esophageal varices with your healthcare provider.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a liver hemangioma, your doctor may use several tests and procedures, including:
- Ultrasound: This imaging method uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the liver.
- Computerized tomography (CT) scanning: This technique combines X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the liver.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This technique uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the liver.
- Scintigraphy: This type of nuclear imaging uses a radioactive tracer material to produce images of the liver. Your doctor may also consider other tests depending on your specific situation.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of liver hemangioma may include pain in the upper right abdomen, abdominal bloating, nausea, or rarely, growth of the hemangioma causing increased symptoms that may require treatment. Women who have been diagnosed with liver hemangiomas may face a risk of complications if they become pregnant due to the hormone estrogen potentially causing some liver hemangiomas to grow larger. Hormone replacement therapy may also increase the risk of being diagnosed with a liver hemangioma in women.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for liver hemangioma, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and inquire about any dietary or other preparations required.
- Note down any symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain, nausea, loss of appetite, or feelings of fullness after eating little.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Take a family member or friend along to help remember information and provide support.
- Write down a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as the size and number of hemangiomas, if they are growing, and if treatment is necessary. Remember to discuss your concerns and ask any questions during your appointment.