The liver performs vital functions, including cleansing the blood by removing toxins produced by the body and producing bile to break down fats from food. It also stores glucose for energy as needed.

Most individuals with an enlarged liver experience no early symptoms. As the condition progresses, it can cause fullness and abdominal discomfort. Depending on the cause and severity, other symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, weakness, nausea, and weight loss.

Several factors can contribute to an enlarged liver: fatty liver disease due to obesity; hepatitis B or C infections; improper medication use; excessive alcohol consumption; exposure to harmful substances; autoimmune diseases (where the body's immune system attacks healthy tissues); and metabolic syndrome (a cluster of heart disease risk factors, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and abdominal fat).

Genetic disorders that cause the buildup of fats, proteins, and other substances; abnormal growths in the liver; or cancer that has spread to the liver can also lead to enlargement. Conditions such as congestive heart failure (where the heart doesn't pump blood efficiently) and blocked veins can also increase the risk.

The condition is prevalent among those who consume excessive alcohol; have bacterial, parasitic, or viral infections; overdose on vitamins or supplements without medical guidance; are overweight; or maintain unhealthy diets. To diagnose an enlarged liver, doctors examine symptoms and may order CT scans, X-rays, or MRIs. Patients might also undergo endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to check for bile duct issues or a liver biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample) to identify underlying causes.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve medication or lifestyle changes, such as abstaining from alcohol and limiting fatty and sugary foods. Weight loss for overweight individuals and increased physical activity can help manage inflammation and infection, thus reducing liver enlargement. In cases involving tumors, surgical removal may be recommended. The prognosis depends on the cause. If left untreated, some conditions can lead to long-term damage.

Anh Chi (WebMD)