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
The lower edge of the liver normally comes just to the lower edge of the ribs on the right side. The edge of the liver is normally thin and firm. It cannot be felt with the fingertips below the edge of the ribs, except when you take a deep breath. It may be enlarged if a health care provider can feel it in this area.
The liver is involved in many of the body's functions. It is affected by many conditions that can cause hepatomegaly, including:
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 hepatomegaly vary, depending on the suspected cause, but may include:
Hepatosplenomegaly; Enlarged liver; Liver enlargement
Bergasa MV. Approach to the patient with liver disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 149.
Pratt DS. Liver chemistry and function tests. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 73.
Updated by: 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.
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