Dipika Kakar reveals cyst recurs after cancer surgery: Complications of the condition

Last year, renowned TV actress Dipika Kakar revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 2 liver cancer. A cancerous cyst near her liver was removed in a major surgery. The actress had said that around 22% of her liver also had to be removed with the cyst. Now, she recently said in her vlog that yet another cyst had to be removed from the same area. She is also continuing her treatment for liver cancer. Dipika said the medical routine has interfered with her time with her family and her son, Ruhaan, as the procedures cause a lot of fatigue and hospital visits. 

"When I am tired, I just sleep. If I am in the hospital, I can't be with my son. I want to come out of this completely. I just didn't expect this to recur so fast. At times, it's too overwhelming," admitted Dipika. She said she is dieting and is doing everything it takes to stay healthy. 

What are liver cysts?
Hepatic cysts or liver cysts are filled with fluid, and they are present on the liver. According to the Cleveland Clinic, most of them are noncancerous and need no treatment. Experts aren't sure what causes them to grow. 

What are its symptoms?
Generally, liver cysts don't show any signs or symptoms. But big cysts can pressurise nearby organs and cause the following:
1) Swollen belly
2) Lack of appetite
3) Belly pain
4) Vomiting and nausea
5) Difficulty breathing

Liver cyst complications
If a large cyst develops, it can block our bile duct, leading to conditions like jaundice. If they burst, they can also cause infections, intense belly pain and fever. 

Frequently Asked Questions
1. How are problematic liver cysts treated?
They need to be removed through surgery if they are cancerous. 
2. Why do liver cysts recur?
If the previous surgery did not remove even microscopic fragments of the problematic cysts, they can grow back. Menstrual cycles can also trigger the formation of new cysts. 

3. How are liver cysts diagnosed?
Liver cysts can be diagnosed by a CT scan or an ultrasound. 
4. Are all liver cysts a form of liver cancer?
No. Most liver cysts are benign and are present from birth. 
5. Does eating or drinking anything trigger the growth of liver cysts?
According to the American Liver Foundation, liver cysts are not brought on by alcohol or poor diet.