What does multiple cysts in the liver and kidneys mean?

Sep 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
In general, multiple cysts in the liver and kidneys may be caused by drug irritation, biliary duct hypoplasia, trauma, liver parasitic infection, or polycystic liver disease. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. In addition, such cysts may also be associated with liver cancer, kidney cancer, and other conditions. If obvious discomfort symptoms occur, seek prompt medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.

In general, multiple cysts in the liver and kidneys may be caused by factors such as drug irritation, biliary duct developmental abnormalities, trauma, liver parasitic infection, or polycystic liver disease. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Drug Irritation

Long-term use of certain medications may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys, leading to organ damage and the formation of cysts in these organs.

2. Biliary Duct Developmental Abnormalities

Multicystic liver disease is relatively common in clinical practice. Some patients have abnormal development of the biliary ducts during embryonic stages, resulting in excessive proliferation of bile duct cells. Over time, these changes gradually lead to cyst formation. If no discomfort is present and the cysts are small, immediate treatment may not be necessary; regular hospital follow-ups are sufficient.

3. Trauma

If the body suffers from blunt injury, the biliary ducts may become damaged, leading to the formation of bubble-like cysts. Symptoms may include chest pain, fever, or shock. Prompt medical attention is required, and minimally invasive surgery under the supervision of a qualified physician may be needed to control disease progression.

4. Liver Parasitic Infection

If the liver is invaded by tapeworm larvae, multilayered cysts can gradually form, causing symptoms such as hepatic pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment may include medications such as albendazole tablets, praziquantel tablets, or mebendazole tablets, taken as directed by a physician.

5. Polycystic Liver Disease

Polycystic liver disease is a genetic disorder typically characterized by the formation of multiple fluid-filled cysts in the liver. It is usually caused by gene mutations on chromosomes and can be inherited via autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive patterns. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as sirolimus oral solution or octreotide acetate injection.

In addition, multiple liver and kidney cysts may also be associated with conditions such as liver cancer or kidney cancer. If obvious discomfort occurs, prompt medical evaluation is essential to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.