Hepatic Cyst in liver - definition and treatment
Hepatic Cyst - a noncancerous growth, often fluid-filled, that develops in the LIVER. Most simple hepatic cysts cause no symptoms; they become apparent during diagnostic procedures, such as abdominal ULTRASOUND, done for other reasons. When there are no symptoms, no treatment is necessary beyond regular monitoring (watchful waiting). A hydatid cyst contains the larvae of the PARASITE Echinococcus granulosus, acquired through contact with animal feces that contain the parasite’s eggs, which migrate to the liver. A hydatid cyst grows slowly though can become large enough to hold a liter or more of fluid. Even when hydatid cysts show no symptoms, doctors remove them because they can cause life-threatening complications such as PERITONITIS or SEPTICEMIA if they rupture. Removal of a hepatic cyst is nearly always a laparoscopic surgery.
See also MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY; PERCUTANEOUS LIVER BIOPSY.