Hemangioma and cirrhosis (varices)

Posted by Janet on July 26, 1999 at 15:41:28
I understand that liver hemangiomas are benign and common.  No problem.  
But what about when you have decompensated cirrhosis.  Does portal hypertension affect the hemangioma and that create one more avenue for varices?
Thanks,

Posted by HFHSM.D.-D.M. on July 31, 1999 at 16:43:46

Dear Janet:
I appreciated your very interesting question.  Portal hypertension should not affect a hemangioma because portal hypertension affects blood vessels feeding into the liver.  While portal hypertension can result in varices, you will not form a varix within the hemangioma.  Patients with cirrhosis are at increased risk of liver cancer so you will want to make sure that a mass within the liver is a hemangioma and not a liver cancer.    
I hope this information is helpful to you.  Good luck with your situation.  If you have additional information or questions, I would invite you to post the material to MEDHELP .  The direct number to our Liver Clinic at Henry Ford is [phone]. We have an active group of liver specialists.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation.  Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.