Focal Nodular Hyperplasia; Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment

Symptoms of focal nodular hyperplasia

As mentioned above, focal nodular hyperplasia is a benign tumor, and most patients can continue to have no symptoms for years or even for the rest of their lives. It is when they have symptoms that they seek medical care, and the tumor is discovered.

Abdominal pain is the commonest symptom. It is usually vague and ill-defined. In some patients, it can feel like bloating or even heartburn. Other than that, symptoms of liver disease are rarely present. Jaundice and abdominal distension are not present since liver function is not compromised. Complications can occur in cases with large tumors, and the most common complication is hemorrhage. Hemorrhage within a tumor or into the abdominal cavity causes severe pain with nausea and vomiting. Patients who have this complication are usually diagnosed in the ER or on the operating table.

Sometimes, a tumor can enlarge enough to obstruct a hepatic vein or the flow of bile. This is rare but can result in jaundice or liver enlargement and pain. Both of those complications in addition to hemorrhage prompt surgical removal of the tumor.