Benign liver tumors are growths of normal cells in the liver, forming masses of excess tissue. They are not cancerous, do not spread to other parts of the body, and rarely affect liver function.

Dr. Nguyen Cong Uan, a specialist in liver tumors at the Oncology Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, identifies three types of benign liver tumors: hemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia, and hepatocellular adenoma. Each type requires a different treatment approach.

Hemangioma, the most common type of benign liver tumor, is more prevalent in women. Most diagnoses occur between the ages of 30 and 50. These tumors are typically asymptomatic and do not require treatment. However, regular monitoring is advised. If a tumor grows large enough to impact daily life, procedures like embolization or surgery may be necessary to prevent rupture.

In rare cases, such as infants with large hemangiomas, surgical removal may be required to prevent blood clotting and heart failure.

Dr. Uan advises a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. Uan advises a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Focal nodular hyperplasia tumors typically appear as solitary lesions with one central scar. This condition predominantly affects women aged 20-30, often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for other medical conditions.

These tumors are usually asymptomatic and do not require intervention when small. If a tumor grows large, surgical removal may be an option to avoid the risk of rupture.

Hepatocellular adenoma commonly occurs in women of childbearing age and is often asymptomatic. If a tumor grows large, surgical removal is advised to prevent rupture and internal bleeding. Dr. Uan notes that hormonal medication use can enlarge hepatocellular adenomas. Consequently, patients with this tumor should cease using hormonal contraceptives and postmenopausal hormone replacement therapies.

Hepatocellular adenomas carry a risk of malignant transformation. Patients require regular monitoring and treatment as advised by their doctor.

Benign liver tumors typically remain asymptomatic. However, if a tumor grows, patients may experience abdominal discomfort. Most benign liver tumors are discovered incidentally during diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI performed for other medical conditions.

Dr. Uan recommends that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle, limit alcohol intake, and get vaccinated against hepatitis viruses to reduce the overall risk of liver diseases, including liver tumors.

Nguyen Tram