Peliosis is a medical condition characterized by the formation of blood-filled cysts or cavities within the tissues or organs of the body. These cysts usually develop as a result of the abnormal enlargement or dilatation of blood vessels, especially the smallest ones called capillaries.
Peliosis can occur in various organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or even in soft tissues. The condition is often associated with underlying diseases or use of certain medications, particularly anabolic steroids.
In the liver, peliosis may cause multiple cyst-like spaces filled with blood, which can compress healthy liver tissue and potentially lead to liver dysfunction or failure. In cases where peliosis affects the spleen, it may cause the organ to become enlarged and filled with blood-filled cysts, compromising its function.
The exact cause of peliosis is not entirely understood, but it is believed that an altered balance in blood vessel growth factors and abnormal healing processes may play a role in its development. While some individuals with peliosis may remain asymptomatic, others may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, fatigue, or jaundice, depending on the organs affected and the severity of the condition.
Peliosis is typically diagnosed through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and confirmed through a biopsy. Treatment options for peliosis depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, simply discontinuing the use of certain medications can be sufficient, while more severe cases may require surgical intervention, such as liver transplantation.
