How do liver cysts affect liver function?

Jul 16, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Shen Yonghua

Introduction

Hepatic hydrops, medically referred to as liver cysts, generally affect liver function by compressing hepatocytes, disrupting metabolic functions, obstructing bile excretion, reducing detoxification capacity, and compressing blood vessels. Larger liver cysts occupy space within the liver, compressing surrounding healthy hepatocytes, leading to a reduction in hepatocyte number or impaired function.

　　Liver bubbles, medically referred to as liver cysts, generally affect liver function in several ways, including compression of hepatocytes, disruption of metabolic functions, obstruction of bile excretion, reduced detoxification capacity, and vascular compression. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical consultation early. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Compression of hepatocytes: Larger liver cysts occupy space within the liver, compressing surrounding healthy liver cells. This can lead to a reduction in the number of hepatocytes or impaired function, affecting the liver's normal synthetic and metabolic capabilities. Over time, this pressure may cause gradual hepatocyte atrophy.

　　2. Disruption of metabolic functions: The liver plays a key role in metabolizing substances such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. When cysts compress or damage hepatocytes, metabolic processes can become disrupted, potentially leading to blood sugar fluctuations, abnormal lipid levels, or insufficient protein synthesis, which can affect the body's nutritional balance.

　　3. Obstruction of bile excretion: Cysts located near bile ducts may compress these ducts, causing impaired bile drainage. Bile stasis can further damage hepatocytes and potentially lead to jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and sclera, thereby increasing the burden on the liver.

　　4. Reduced detoxification capacity: The liver is a vital organ for detoxification. When cysts impair hepatocyte function, the liver's detoxification ability declines. Toxins generated by metabolism or introduced from external sources cannot be promptly broken down and eliminated, potentially accumulating in the body and causing discomfort.

　　5. Vascular compression: Enlarging liver cysts may compress intrahepatic blood vessels, disrupting liver blood circulation and leading to hepatocyte ischemia and hypoxia. This can further exacerbate liver cell injury, creating a vicious cycle that results in progressive liver dysfunction.

　　After detecting a liver cyst, regular monitoring of cyst size and liver function indicators is necessary to observe any changes. Alcohol consumption and the use of hepatotoxic drugs should be avoided in daily life. Maintaining a regular作息 and a balanced diet are also important for liver health.

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