Liver Mass

[mommystorck]

I recently had an ultrasound due to pain/pressure on my right side up under my rib.  I also have a kidney condition called Focal Segmental Glomerular Sclerosis.  The ultrasound findings were as follows: The liver parenchyma does appear echogenic diffusely suggesting fatty infiltration.  A 2.4 X 3.3 X 1.6 cm hypoechoic mass-like area of decreased echogeincity is seen within the right lobe.  There is no intrahepatic or extrahepatic  billary ductal dilation with the common bile duct measuring 9,27 cm. No gallstones, no gallbladder thickening or pericholecystic fluid.  Imaged portions of the pancreas reveal no focal abnormailty. The kidneys were normal in size.  There is hepatopetal flow within the main portal vein.  

Impression:  
1.  Fatty liver

2.  3.3 cm hypoechoic mass suggested in right lobe of liver.  CT exam using a liver protocol recommended.  Underlying neoplasm has not been excluded.

My question is can a hypoechoic mass be a cyst.  What does the term mass mean?  What are the possible diagnosis?  How likely is cancer?  Would it be be primary or secondary?  I am also having intermittent lower left
pelvic pain.  What else should be done?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Tracy

[alenestarz]

A related discussion, hypoechoic mass on liver was started.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Yes, the mass can be a cyst.  However, you need to exclude cancer before coming to that conclusion.

I cannot give probabilities as to whether cancer is present or not.  I suggest proceeding with a CT scan or considering an MRI to exclude the possibility of cancer.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[mommystorck]

Dr,  I also wanted to add that I am 39 year old female.  Also what type of mass is usually seen with a hypoechoic mass as opposed to a hyperehoic mass?