Liver cysts are a fairly rare condition, only affecting about 5% of the population. There are different types of liver cysts, from simple cysts and polycystic liver disease to hepatic hydatid cysts and cystic liver tumors. Dr. Dmitri Alden is a highly respected liver specialist and oncological surgeon who offers diagnosis and liver cysts treatment through his practice in New York City.

Simple Liver Cysts

The majority of cysts in the liver are simple – a single, benign sac of fluid. These can be congenital or develop over time. The exact cause of simple liver cysts is unknown, but they can be caused by abnormalities in the structure of the bile ducts. Most patients with simple liver cysts do not have symptoms and do not require treatment. However, if a simple liver cyst results in bile duct blockages or becomes large in size, it can result in symptoms that may need treatment to resolve.

Polycystic Liver Disease

Unlike simple liver cysts that are single fluid-filled sacs, polycystic liver disease can result in many cysts throughout the liver. Most liver surfaces are smooth, but patients with polycystic liver disease, or PLD, have a bumpy liver due to hundreds or thousands of small cysts. This is a congenital, inherited and rare condition which may not display symptoms until adulthood.

Cystic Liver Tumors

Cystic liver tumors, or hepatic cystadenoma, are non-cancerous tumors can occur in various regions of the liver. While they begin as benign cystic tumors, they can become malignant when they grow larger.

Liver Cyst Symptoms

The symptoms of the various types of liver cysts are similar. Many patients can live with PLD, simple liver cysts or cystic liver tumors for years without symptoms. However, advanced liver cysts can result in abdominal pain and swelling, as well as jaundice, loss of appetite, fever or nausea/vomiting.

When liver cysts cause symptoms or are at risk for cancer, surgical removal is generally recommended. There are various techniques for removing liver cysts, from draining or removing the “ceiling” of the cyst to resection of the liver.

If you have been diagnosed with PLD or liver cysts and want to explore liver cyst treatment, contact Dr. Dmitri Alden. We can schedule a consultation with Dr. Alden through our medical center in UES NYC.