What does multiple round-like low-density shadows in the liver mean?

Generally, multiple round low-density shadows in the liver may be caused by factors such as hepatic cysts, hepatic hemangiomas, cirrhosis, hepatic hydatid disease, and liver metastases. If physical discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should be conducted under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hepatic Cysts: Hepatic cysts are benign liver lesions usually caused by congenital or acquired factors. The cysts are filled with fluid, forming round low-density shadows within the liver. Patients without symptoms and with small cysts may choose regular follow-up observation without specific treatment. If the cyst is large or causes symptoms by compressing surrounding tissues, such as hepatic distension, abdominal distension, surgical treatment may be considered, including cyst fenestration or cystectomy.

2. Hepatic Hemangiomas: Hepatic hemangiomas are benign vascular lesions of the liver, commonly associated with congenital developmental abnormalities or hormonal changes. Hemangiomas filled with blood form round low-density shadows in the liver. Smaller hepatic hemangiomas can be treated with laser therapy, using the thermal effect of the laser to induce hemangioma shrinkage. If the hemangioma is large or causes symptoms such as abdominal pain or hepatic pain due to compression of surrounding tissues, surgical resection may be considered, such as hemangioma resection. Postoperatively, antibiotics like Cefradine Capsules, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Ibuprofen Sustained-release Capsules may be used according to medical advice.

3. Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis refers to chronic liver damage and fibrosis caused by multiple factors. As the disease progresses, liver function becomes impaired, presenting as round low-density shadows on imaging studies. Treatment may involve medications such as Entecavir Tablets, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Tablets, or Compound Glycyrrhizin Injection, under the guidance of a physician.

4. Hepatic Hydatid Disease: Hepatic hydatid disease is caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus parasites residing in the liver. Parasites form hydatid cysts in the liver, presenting as round low-density shadows on imaging studies. Patients with larger hydatid cysts or symptoms caused by compression of surrounding tissues may consider surgical treatment, such as endocystectomy or hepatectomy. Patients with small cysts and no symptoms may choose regular follow-up observation.

5. Liver Metastases: Liver metastases refer to tumors formed when malignant tumors from other parts of the body, such as lung cancer or colorectal cancer, spread to the liver through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. These tumors typically appear as multiple round low-density shadows on imaging studies. For patients with single or few liver metastases and good general health, surgical resection may be considered.

During treatment, patients should maintain good lifestyle and dietary habits, which can help prevent and manage the above diseases. Patients are advised to maintain a positive attitude during treatment to aid in recovery.