Liver cysts

Simple cysts

• Might be called simple hepatic cysts.
• Most common type of liver cyst.
• Most simple cysts cause no symptoms or problems.
• Usually found by accident during a scan for something else.
• Only treated if you start to get symptoms.

Hydatid cysts of the liver

• May also be called echinococcosis, hydatidosis or hydatid disease.
• Very rare in the UK.
• Cysts are caused by a type of parasite.
• Cysts can be in the liver or other parts of your body.
• Treatment can involve medicines, surgery or “watch and wait”.

Biliary cystadenoma

• Usually one large liver cyst.
• More common in women.
• Causes symptoms of fullness and tummy pain.
• Can increase the risk of cancer.
• Treatment is usually a liver operation.

Polycystic liver disease

• Can occur on its own or be linked to polycystic kidney disease.
• Very rare.
• Does not usually cause any symptoms.
• Most cases will not need treatment.
• Most people who need treatment are women before menopause.

Choledochal cysts

• Might also be called biliary cysts.
• Very rare.
• Usually diagnosed in babies and children.
• Causes swellings in your bile ducts.
• Need specialist treatment.

Caroli disease

• Also called type V choledochal cysts.
• Very rare.
• People with Caroli disease often also have congenital hepatic fibrosis.
• Needs specialist treatment.

Congenital hepatic fibrosis

• Very rare.
• Causes scarring and toughening of your liver.
• Usually linked to other conditions including Caroli disease.
• Can cause serious liver damage and portal vein hypertension.
• Treatment is focused on controlling symptoms and complications.

Biliary hamartoma

• Lots of very small cysts spread all over your liver.
• Does not cause any symptoms or problems.
• Can be mistaken for cancer in initial tests.
• Does not need any treatment.
• Often linked to other conditions that will need treatment.

Support for you

Find out more about how The British Liver trust can support you and your friends and family.

We offer information, an online forum, support groups and a helpline run by our specialist liver nurses.