Differential Diagnosis for Hepatic Cyst 1.1x1.1x1.2 cm

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Simple hepatic cyst: This is the most common and likely diagnosis for a small, solitary cyst in the liver. Simple hepatic cysts are benign, fluid-filled lesions that can be found in up to 5% of the population. They are usually asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on imaging studies.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Hemangioma: Although typically solid, some hemangiomas can have a cystic appearance, especially if they have undergone degenerative changes. They are the most common benign liver tumor and can be found in up to 20% of the population.
  • Biliary cystadenoma: A rare, benign neoplasm of the bile duct that can present as a cystic lesion in the liver. It is more common in women and can cause symptoms due to its potential to become large and cause compression of adjacent structures.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Hydatid cyst (Echinococcal cyst): Caused by the parasitic infection Echinococcus granulosus, this condition can present as a cystic lesion in the liver. Although rare in many parts of the world, it is crucial to consider in endemic areas or in individuals with a history of travel to such areas, as it requires specific treatment.
  • Cystic metastasis: In patients with a history of cancer, particularly those with primaries known to metastasize to the liver (e.g., colon, breast, lung), a cystic lesion could represent a metastasis. This diagnosis is critical to rule out due to its significant implications for treatment and prognosis.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Polycystic liver disease (PLD): Characterized by the presence of multiple cysts within the liver, PLD is a rare condition that can be associated with polycystic kidney disease. A single cyst could be an early manifestation, but this would be unusual.
  • Caroli's disease: A rare congenital disorder involving non-obstructive dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts, which can appear as cystic lesions on imaging. It is associated with an increased risk of cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma.
  • Mesenchymal hamartoma: A rare, benign tumor of the liver that can have a cystic component. It is more commonly seen in children but can occur in adults.