From the Research
The normal liver size in adults typically ranges from 14.0 to 16.0 centimeters in the midclavicular line when measured by ultrasound, with an average size of 15.0 ± 1.5 cm, as reported in the most recent and highest quality study 1. This measurement refers to the craniocaudal span (top to bottom) of the liver. The liver size can vary based on several factors including body size, sex, and age.
- Women generally have slightly smaller livers than men, with an average size of 14.9 ± 1.6 cm, while men have an average size of 15.1 ± 1.5 cm 1.
- Liver size tends to be influenced by factors such as body mass index, body height, fatty liver, waist-to-hip ratio, and metabolic syndrome 1. Imaging studies like ultrasound may provide more precise measurements, and variations outside the normal range may indicate hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) or a smaller than normal liver, which could suggest underlying pathology requiring further evaluation.
- The right lobe of the liver is larger than the left lobe, accounting for about two-thirds of the total liver volume. It is essential to consider these factors when assessing liver size to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- A study with a large sample size of 1,789 subjects found that liver span exceeded 16 cm in 24.3% of subjects, highlighting the importance of considering individual variations when evaluating liver size 1.