Overview
Clinical and Ayurvedic guidance for hepatomegaly.
Liver Disorder
Hepatomegaly
Hepatomegaly is abnormal liver enlargement caused by inflammation, fat accumulation, congestion, infiltration, or tumor processes. It signals underlying systemic or liver-specific disease.
Physiology and Clinical Impact
Liver enlargement reflects pathological stress such as inflammation, vascular congestion, storage disorders, or infiltrative disease.
Causes and Symptoms
Common Causes
Liver disorders
Hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver malignancy are common causes.
Cardiac and metabolic causes
Right heart failure, iron/copper overload, and storage disorders can enlarge liver.
Infections and immune disorders
Parasitic, bacterial, autoimmune, and systemic inflammatory diseases may contribute.
Typical Symptoms
Abdominal discomfort
Upper right abdominal heaviness or pain is common.
Systemic signs
Fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, nausea, and swelling can occur.
Diagnosis and Care
Evaluation
- Physical exam, liver function tests, and imaging (USG/CT/MRI).
- Biopsy or specialized tests when diagnosis is unclear.
Supportive Management
- Treat underlying cause and monitor liver status.
- Follow pitta-friendly diet, hydration, and stress-reduction routine.