What Does a Change in Liver Morphology Mean?
Morphological changes of the liver refer to alterations in the normal contour of the liver observed through imaging studies. These changes may include enlargement of liver volume, reduction of liver volume, and irregular edges.
1. Enlargement of Liver Volume: This is commonly seen in liver tumor diseases, whether benign or malignant. As the tumor volume increases, it can deform the liver and enlarge its size. When the tumor is located near the liver edge, it can cause unevenness in the liver edge.
2. Reduction of Liver Volume: This is frequently observed in liver tissue fibrosis caused by chronic liver diseases, such as cholestasis and liver cirrhosis. Typically, as liver tissue fibrosis progresses, the elasticity of the liver decreases, and its volume gradually diminishes, leading to morphological changes during examination.
3. Irregular Edges: This is often seen when there are liver nodules or tumors of varying sizes, causing a portion of the liver to protrude beyond its normal contour. Such manifestations may be observed during examinations.
When patients detect abnormalities through examinations, they should seek medical attention to clarify their condition and receive targeted treatment.