Pediatric liver cysts

What are pediatric liver cysts?

Liver cysts are rare, bubble-like defects in the liver tissue. The cause is unknown.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric liver cysts?

Larger cysts may cause:

• Bloating

• Pain in upper right abdomen

Most liver cysts do not cause symptoms.

How are pediatric liver cysts diagnosed?

• CT scan

• Ultrasound

How are pediatric liver cysts treated?

These cysts are usually non-cancerous and require no treatment, unless they are large. They can be associated with infection and may need to be drained.

Liver cysts that form with a malignant liver tumor or a bile duct malformation need to be removed. The type of surgery will depend on the cause and location of the cyst in the liver.