What causes liver cysts?
Dec 21, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Hepatic cysts are primarily caused by congenital factors, local trauma, viral hepatitis, hepatic echinococcosis, and polycystic liver disease. Most people believe that the formation of hepatic cysts is related to abnormalities during liver development. Abnormal lymphatic development forms a membranous structure that secretes large amounts of mucus. As the mucus gradually accumulates, a cyst develops.
Generally, liver cysts may be caused by congenital factors, localized trauma, viral hepatitis, hepatic echinococcosis, polycystic liver disease, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Congenital Factors
Most people believe that the formation of liver cysts is associated with abnormal development of the liver. Abnormal lymphatic development forms a membranous structure that secretes large amounts of mucus. As the mucus gradually accumulates, cysts form. Avoid strenuous exercise to prevent additional strain on the liver.
2. Localized Trauma
In some cases, cystic lesions may develop after the liver sustains trauma or other forms of localized injury, due to the formation of hematomas or necrotic tissue during the healing process. Liver cysts caused by trauma that are small and asymptomatic may also be managed through regular follow-up examinations.
3. Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis is primarily caused by infection with hepatitis viruses. Long-term liver inflammation can damage hepatocytes, leading to intrahepatic bile duct obstruction and narrowing, which may result in inflammatory cysts. Symptoms such as fatigue and reduced appetite may accompany these cysts. Treatment under the guidance of a specialist physician with medications such as entecavir tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, or lamivudine tablets may be recommended.
4. Hepatic Echinococcosis
Hepatic echinococcosis is caused by infection with the larval stage of the Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm. The eggs form single or multiple cystic lesions in the liver, causing the aforementioned symptoms, including abdominal pain and discomfort in the liver area. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as mebendazole tablets, albendazole tablets, or ivermectin tablets for treatment.
5. Polycystic Liver Disease
Polycystic liver disease is a genetic disorder associated with gene mutations, most commonly mutations in the PKHD1 and PKD1 genes. These mutations cause abnormal proliferation of cholangiolar epithelial cells, resulting in multiple fluid-filled cysts. As the cysts enlarge, symptoms such as abdominal pain and hepatomegaly may occur. Follow medical advice for treatment with medications such as tolvaptan tablets, sirolimus tablets, or everolimus tablets.
Maintain a regular作息 schedule in daily life, avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue. Adequate sleep contributes to liver repair and regeneration.
