About this topic
Focal nodular hyperplasia is also called FNH. It is a common tumor found inside the liver. It is not cancer. This tumor most often grows without causing any signs and shows up during a routine imaging test of the belly. These tumors happen more often in women who are 20 to 30 years of age. These tumors sometimes happen when tiny blood vessels in the liver are blocked. ‚
FNH may not need any care if it does not cause pain or discomfort. Sometimes, the doctor may want to take the tumor out. This may be done if there is a chance that the tumor may break open. ‚
What are the causes?
Doctors are not sure of the exact cause of FNH. It may happen because of an irregular growth of a type of liver cell. Some people may be born with problems with the blood vessels in the liver or may have an injury to these blood vessels. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Belly or stomach discomfort
- Belly or stomach pain
- Lump felt in the belly
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history and do an exam.
- The doctor will ask if you have any signs, especially in your belly.
- Your doctor will feel your belly for lumps. Your doctor will ask if there are painful areas.
Your doctor may order: ‚
- Blood tests to see how well the liver is working
- Ultrasound
- CT or MRI scan
- Angiography
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
- Your doctor may give you drugs for pain. Take them as ordered.
- If you are taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, your doctor may tell you to stop taking them for a short time.
- Your doctor may do surgery if the lump is very painful or very large. It is not common that your doctor needs to remove the tumors.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- You need to stay away from beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Stop smoking. Cigarette smoke can make blood vessels fragile.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to help with pain. ‚
Will there be any other care needed?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Talk to your doctor about your FNH before you get pregnant.
- Eat a healthy diet, especially if you have fatty liver disease along with FNH. Lose weight if you are overweight.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Prevent accidental injuries to your liver by wearing proper protective gear when doing sports and hard activities.
- Ask your doctor before taking hormone replacement therapy. Ask your doctor what pills for birth control are best for you.
Where can I learn more?
American Liver Foundation ‚
http://www.liverfoundation.org/abouttheliver/info/benigntumors/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚