An enlarged liver, also known as hepatomegaly, is a condition where the liver is larger than normal. The liver performs many functions, including making bile, clearing toxins, storing fat, and making proteins. An enlarged liver is not a disease itself, but a sign of an underlying problem affecting the liver.
There are many possible causes of an enlarged liver, such as:
Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver, or cancer
Infections, such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections that affect the liver
Genetic disorders, such as hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, or Gaucher’s disease, that cause abnormal accumulation of substances in the liver
Cysts or tumors, such as hemangioma or adenoma, that grow in the liver
Obstruction of the bile ducts or gallbladder, that prevent the flow of bile from the liver
Heart and blood vessel problems, such as heart failure or Budd-Chiari syndrome, that affect the blood circulation in the liver
An enlarged liver may not cause any symptoms in some cases. However, depending on the cause and severity of the condition, some symptoms may include:
Abdominal pain, swelling, or bloating
Jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Pale, bloody, or dark stools
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Fatigue, weakness, or loss of appetite
Itchy skin or rash
Confusion, hallucinations, or coma
To diagnose an enlarged liver, a doctor may perform a physical examination and ask about the medical history and symptoms of the patient. The doctor may also order some tests, such as:
Blood tests, to check the liver function, blood count, and infection markers
Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or liver biopsy, to visualize the size, shape, and structure of the liver and detect any abnormalities
Other tests, such as endoscopy, ERCP, or angiography, to examine the bile ducts, gallbladder, and blood vessels of the liver
The treatment of an enlarged liver depends on the cause and the extent of the damage to the liver. The main goals of treatment are to:
Treat the underlying condition that causes the liver enlargement
Relieve the symptoms and complications of the liver enlargement
Prevent further damage and scarring to the liver
Restore the normal function and health of the liver
Some of the common treatments for an enlarged liver are:
Medications, such as antibiotics, antivirals, steroids, or immunosuppressants, to treat infections, inflammation, or autoimmune disorders that affect the liver
Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drugs, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly, to reduce the risk factors and improve the liver function
Surgery, such as liver resection, liver transplant, or shunt placement, to remove or replace the damaged part of the liver or to improve the blood flow in the liver
Other therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or ablation, to destroy or shrink the cancer cells or tumors in the liver
The best way to prevent an enlarged liver is to protect the liver from any injury or disease that can cause it to swell. Some of the preventive measures are:
Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, which are viral infections that can damage the liver
Practicing safe sex and avoiding sharing needles, which can prevent the transmission of hepatitis C and other infections that can affect the liver
Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding binge drinking, which can cause fatty liver and cirrhosis
Following the doctor’s instructions and taking the prescribed dose of medications, vitamins, or supplements, which can prevent toxic hepatitis and liver damage
Maintaining a healthy weight and managing diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, which can prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome
Screening for liver diseases and getting regular check-ups, especially if there is a family history or risk factors for liver problems
The causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of an enlarged liver can help you take better care of your liver and overall health.
