Management of benign liver tumors

Benign liver tumors form a heterogeneous group. The most frequent forms include simple cysts, hemangiomas, focal nodular hyperplasia and hepatocellular adenomas. They are often incidentally detected during routine sonography. The diagnosis of a liver tumor not uncommonly causes anxiety and insecurity in those affected, which is why a rapid and reliable diagnostic procedure should be carried out. Because some tumors, particularly hepatocellular adenomas, are of prognostic relevance due to the potential risk of malignant transformation, a correct classification should always be strived for. The type and extent of diagnostic clarification depend on the clinical and patient-related risk factors. This article describes the most important benign space-occupying lesions. The etiology, clinical manifestations and diagnostics as well as possible necessary treatment measures are presented.