Hepatic hemangioma is a type of non-cancerous (benign) tumor composed of abnormally formed blood vessels within the liver. Though this condition can develop in people of any age, hepatic hemangiomas most commonly affect people between the ages of 30 and 50, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains. Hepatic hemangioma symptoms can be difficult to detect but should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
Asymptomatic
The majority of patients who develop hepatic hemangioma never experience symptoms (also called asymptomatic), The Mayo Clinic explains. Patients with this condition typically develop single tumors, though multiple tumors can occur in certain cases. The size of hepatic hemangiomas can vary significantly, ranging from a couple of millimeters to over 20cm, explains Up To Date, a peer-reviewed medical information website for patients. Patients with smaller hepatic hemangiomas are more likely to be asymptomatic, while larger tumors are more likely to cause symptoms.
Abdominal Pain
Benign tumor formation on the liver can cause abdominal pain in patients as a symptom of hepatic hemangioma. Painful sensations typically arise within the upper right portion of the abdomen, which is where the liver is located. Abdominal pain is generally mild but can range in severity based upon the size of the hepatic hemangioma. Sudden or severe abdominal pain should be immediately reported to a doctor as these symptoms can be indicative of alternate medical conditions.
Nausea or Vomiting
A patient with a hepatic hemangioma can experience stomach upset as a symptom of this condition. The abnormal presence of dilated blood vessels in the liver can irritate and inflame nearby organs, such as the stomach or intestines. As a result, patients with this condition can experience nausea or may begin vomiting, Mayo Clinic doctors warn.
Appetite Changes
Liver inflammation caused by hepatic hemangiomas can cause this organ to become enlarged and swollen. If this occurs, the inflamed liver can press into the intestines and stomach, which can decrease the usual capacity of these organs. Consequently, patients with hepatic hemangioma can experience appetite changes as a symptom of this condition. A patient may have a decreased appetite or can feel full after eating a small snack, The Mayo Clinic explains. Persistent appetite changes can lead to weight loss in some patients with hepatic hemangioma.
Internal Bleeding or Organ Malfunction
Depending upon the size and location of hepatic hemangiomas, internal bleeding can occur in certain patients as a symptom of this condition, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Internal bleeding accompanied by liver swelling can interfere with the normal function of surrounding organs, such as the stomach, which can lead to additional symptoms in some patients. Symptoms of internal bleeding and organ malfunction typically occur in conjunction with abdominal pain or discomfort.
