Benign hepatomas are non-cancerous tumors that develop in the liver. The spelling of this word is broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): [bɪˈnaɪn] [hɛpətəʊməz]. The first part of the word, "benign," is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by a stressed "n." The second part, "hepatomas," is pronounced with a soft "h," short "e" sound, and "t" sound. The "o" sound is pronounced as a "schwa" and the word ends with a "z" sound. Knowing the IPA phonetic transcription can help with precise pronunciation.
Benign hepatomas, also known as hepatic adenomas or hepatocellular adenomas, are noncancerous tumors that develop in the liver cells. They arise from the hepatocytes, which are the main functional cells of the liver responsible for various metabolic processes. These tumors are typically solitary and can vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter.
Benign hepatomas are considered a type of liver mass and are distinct from both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and other liver malignancies. These tumors often occur in individuals with specific risk factors, such as females taking oral contraceptives, those with underlying metabolic disorders like glycogen storage diseases or diabetes, and individuals who have been exposed to specific drugs or substances.
Although benign hepatomas are not cancerous, they can cause complications if they grow larger or rupture. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, a palpable mass in the upper abdomen, or potentially life-threatening internal bleeding if rupture occurs. Additionally, there is a small risk of malignant transformation, where the benign tumor can develop into liver cancer.
The most effective treatment for benign hepatomas is surgical removal, especially for those causing symptoms, growing in size, or showing signs of potential malignancy. After tumor removal, patients may need regular follow-up imaging to monitor for recurrence or the development of new tumors.
Overall, benign hepatomas are liver tumors that are noncancerous, arising from liver cells, and can present with symptoms or complications if they grow or rupture. While generally considered benign, close monitoring and appropriate medical intervention are necessary to manage their potential risks and ensure optimal patient outcomes.
The word "benign" comes from the Latin word "benignus", meaning kind or gentle. "Hepatomas" is derived from the Greek word "hepar" meaning liver, and the suffix "-oma" which is used to denote a tumor or abnormal growth. Therefore, "benign hepatomas" refers to non-cancerous or non-malignant tumors that form in the liver.