Appearance of Tumors
Liver disease is often a silent killer, with symptoms only developing after progressing to significant stages. However, liver tumors cause visible changes in the abdomen, and in many cases, these abnormalities may be noticed by loved ones or physicians before any other symptoms have developed.
Tumors form when cells grow uncontrollably. For example, when hepatocytes (liver cells) divide faster than normal, they can become cancerous tumorous growths called nodules. These masses are frequently present inside the liver and are one of the most common causes of metastasis to other body parts, including the lungs, bones, and the brain. Some tumors originate in other body regions and invade the liver through veins or bile ducts. When this happens, it is often because they are affecting organs outside their own system, such as breast cancer metastasizing to the liver.
Tumors cause irregular shapes and textures on ultrasound images which can help diagnose various forms of liver disease.
The appearance of tumors is important for doctors trying to determine if there are benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumor cells in a patient’s body. Benign tumors tend to be smaller than malignant ones, but both types can be detected by an ultrasound. When malignant tumors are found in the liver, doctors will often order additional tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, to get a better view of their size and shape.
