Hepatomegaly is swelling of the liver beyond its normal size.
If both the liver and spleen are enlarged, it is called hepatosplenomegaly.
See also: Splenomegaly
Hepatosplenomegaly; Enlarged liver; Liver enlargement
The lower edge of the liver normally comes just to the lower edge of the ribs (costal margin) on the right side. The edge of the liver is normally thin and firm, and it cannot be felt with the finger tips below the edge of the ribs, except when you take a deep breath. It may be considered enlarged if a health care provider can feel it in this area.
The liver is involved in many bodily functions and is affected by a variety of conditions, many of which result in hepatomegaly.
Causes of hepatomegaly may include:
This condition is usually discovered by a health care provider. You may not be aware of the liver or spleen swelling.
The doctor will examine you and ask questions such as:
Tests to determine the cause of the hepatomegaly vary, depending on the suspected cause, but may include:
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Reviewer Info: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. ; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 05/02/2009 |