Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Cystic Disease of the Liver
• Medical Term: Hepatic Cystic Disease

Summary

Cystic disease of the liver involves the presence of fluid-filled sacs or cysts within the liver. These cysts can vary in size and number and may lead to complications if they grow large or numerous enough to affect liver function.

Causes

Cystic disease of the liver can be genetic or acquired. The most common inherited form is polycystic liver disease, often associated with polycystic kidney disease. Acquired cystic disease can occur due to parasitic infections like echinococcosis or as simple cysts with no apparent cause.

Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition (e.g., family history of polycystic diseases)
• Parasitic infections
• Age: Incidence of simple liver cysts increases with age

Symptoms

• Often asymptomatic
• Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
• Swelling or bloating
• Nausea
• An enlarged liver

Diagnosis

• Ultrasound: Common initial imaging technique to identify cysts
• CT scan or MRI: Used for further evaluation of cysts
• Blood tests: To rule out infection or liver function impairment

Treatment Options

• Observation: Regular monitoring if cysts are asymptomatic
• Aspiration: Draining fluid from large or painful cysts
• Surgery: Removal of problematic cysts
• Medications: Rarely used, but may include treatments for complications (e.g., antibiotics for infected cysts)

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Most individuals with hepatic cysts have a normal life expectancy, especially if the cysts are simple and asymptomatic. Regular follow-ups help monitor the size and number of cysts to manage potential complications.

Complications

• Infection of cysts
• Bleeding within or rupture of cysts
• Obstruction of bile or blood flow
• Compression of adjacent organs

Lifestyle & Prevention

While genetic forms cannot be prevented, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding liver infections through safe food and water practices may reduce the risk of acquired cysts.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if experiencing severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or rapid abdominal swelling, as these could indicate complications like infection or bleeding.

Additional Resources

• American Liver Foundation: www.liverfoundation.org
• Polycystic Liver Disease International: www.pldid.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity when coding associated conditions like polycystic kidney disease.
• Beware of coding for acquired versus genetic forms; details from the medical record are essential.
• Verify imaging and test results when documenting the diagnosis to prevent errors.