Liver lesions

[judybee61]

In Feb 2007, I had a kidney stone for which they took a ct scan.  Two liver lesions were detected and I was sent for a followup ultrasound and contrast ct scan.  It was determined that these had nonspecific enhancement patterns and were benign.  I have had a followup ultrasound at 4 months, 8 months, and 10 months with no change in the lesions.  My liver enzymes are normal as is all of my other blood work.  I have had a mammogram, and visited the eye doctor, dermatologist, and gynecologist with a clean bill of health.  My question is, is it still possible that these lesions are cancer?  Wouldn't cancer have grown or spread in 10 months?  My new doctor has sent me for an MRI tomorrow, and I am still worried.  Please advise!

[momto2]

Hi! I sure know what you are going through! I went for a CT scan Jan '07 because I was having stomach discomfort.  They found 2 lesions on my liver as well. I am 41y/o with 2 kids and I was terrified. After many tests labwork etc. I was found to be healthy just as you are. They think my tumors are adenomas ( They do have a slight risk of turning to cancer) I have to have periodic MRIs. So far they haven't really changed much so it's just a wait and see approach. I have met with a liver surgeon and my GI doc has discussed this with a hepatologist at a larger institution. Apparently, they see this so often that they think the risk of surgery is greater than the risk of the tumors being cancer. The hepatologist recommended a liver spect scan as well. My surgeons and GI Drs. here do not recommend doing a biopsy because there is a risk a bleeding. That recommendation is probably different for each individual. The Dr. did not really answer your question about if liver cancer would likely spread or grow in 10 months. I would like to know that as well. Keep me posted on your progress and good luck with the MRI. I'll bet everything will be fine!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the workup thus far.  It is reassuring that the liver lesions are not enlarging.  

Further evaluation would indeed include an MRI, which you said has been scheduled.  If that test is negative, the possibility of a liver cancer is less likely.

If the lesion is amenable to biopsy, that can also be discussed with your personal physician.

A referral to a liver specialist, preferably at a major academic medical center, can be considered.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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