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Rachel V Thomas

Why Regular Scans Are Crucial for Liver Cancer Patients: Doctors Explain

Why Regular Scans Are Crucial for Liver Cancer Patients

Indian Actress <span>Dipika Kakkar</span>, battling <span>liver <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a></span>, underwent another surgery last month for a 1.3 cm cyst that reappeared.

Best known for her role as Simar Bhardwaj in the hit TV show Sasural Simar Ka, Dipika underwent a major tumour-removal surgery in June 2025. She also undertook chemotherapy 

In her latest vlog, Dipika shared that the unexpected recurrence has left her feeling anxious and overwhelmed as doctors evaluate the next course of treatment.

"The recurrence that happened with the 1.3 cm cyst has shaken me. I am a little scared now that it shouldn't happen again. I have started dieting, but I feel anxious," she said.

HealthandMe spoke to health experts to understand why cysts recur in liver <span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a></span> patients and how it's important to keep monitoring them.

According to health experts, a biannual liver scan is imperative, and it can detect signs of cysts.

“Simple cysts less than 2-3 Cm can be observed with repeat scans every 6 months to 1 year. Suspicious or malignant cysts need surgical resection and oncological treatment based on the histopathology and patient condition,” Dr Manjunath NML, Sr Consultant, Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgeon, HCG Cancer Hospital, K R Road, Bengaluru. 

<h2>What Are Liver Cysts? How It's Linked To Cancer</h2>

Liver cysts are like bags that are filled with fluid. They are usually not cancer. Most people who have liver cysts do not get cancer. 

However, just because one has a cyst, it does not mean it's cancer.

“Cysts in the liver are typically harmless and unrelated to liver cancer. However, unusual types of cysts may suggest malignant changes that need further examination, particularly among risk groups,” Dr. Govind Nandakumar, Consultant – Gastrointestinal Surgery, Manipal Hospitals Hebbal, told HealthandMe. 

The experts noted that cases of recurring cysts related to liver cancer are uncommon. But they occur because of 

<ul><li>the presence of cancerous cells, </li><li>regrowth of the organ, </li><li>chronic conditions like cirrhosis.</li></ul>“It is not very common for a cyst to recur after liver cancer treatment. If a cyst does return, it could indicate that the liver is not healthy. Sometimes, what appears to be a recurrent cyst may actually be an infection or a blockage. Regular follow-up with a doctor is important so that any issues can be detected early. If a problem is identified in time, it can be treated, and more serious complications can be prevented,” Dr. Hemkant Verma, Oncology Consultant, Shardacare Healthcity, to HealthandMe. 

<strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/1-in-4-diabetic-patients-in-india-suffer-from-liver-fibrosis-finds-lancet-study-article-153938413" data-type="tilCustomLink">1 In 4 Diabetic Patients in India Suffer from Liver Fibrosis, Finds Lancet Study</a>

<h2>Are There Early Warning Signs Patients Should Watch For? </h2>

Many liver cysts do not cause any problems in the early stages. That is why regular check-ups with a doctor are important. If a cyst grows or becomes problematic, symptoms may begin to appear. These can include 

<ul><li><span rel="noindex">abdominal pain</span>, </li><li>bloating, </li><li>nausea, </li><li>weight loss, </li><li>yellowing of the skin, </li><li>fatigue.</li></ul>“Liver cysts are fluid-filled cavities in the liver that may present as single or multiple lesions. The majority (around 95 per cent) are benign, while about 5 per cent may be cancerous. In many cases, the exact cause of their formation is unknown, and they may also be associated with conditions such as polycystic kidney or ovarian disease. Most patients are asymptomatic, and these cysts are often detected incidentally during routine scans,” said Dr. Manjunath, told HealthandMe. 

<h2>Is Recurrent Cysts A Cause Of Worry? </h2>

Expert Says Diabetics Need To Screen For  Liver Fibrosis #shorts #shortsfeed #diabetes

Recurrent cysts can be effectively managed and treated over time. The recurrence does not necessarily imply the progression of the condition itself; however, more tests may be required to determine whether cysts are malignant or benign. 

“Cysts with thick walls, septations inside, and solid components in them are more likely to be cancerous. If the cysts are large, they cause symptoms like pain, distension, and obstruction of the bowel or biliary tract,” Dr Manjunath said. 

The experts explained that diagnosis can be achieved by scans like ultrasonography, Computerized Tomography CT or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Suspicious cysts must be checked via biopsy to confirm malignancy. 

While suspicious or malignant cysts require surgical resection and oncological treatment, symptomatic cysts, even if benign, may also require removal. 

However, if a <span>liver cyst</span> is detected without suspicious features and is asymptomatic, it usually does not require any intervention, Dr. Manjunath noted.

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Indian Actress Dipika Kakkar, battling liver cancer, underwent another surgery last month for a 1.3 cm cyst that reappeared. Best known for her role as Simar Bhardwaj in the hit TV show Sasural Simar Ka, Dipika underwent a major tumour-removal surgery in June 2025. She also undertook chemotherapy In her latest vlog, Dipika shared that the unexpected recurrence has left her feeling anxious and overwhelmed as doctors evaluate the next course of treatment. "The recurrence that happened with the 1.3 cm cyst has shaken me. I am a little scared now that it shouldn't happen again. I have started dieting, but I feel anxious," she said. HealthandMe spoke to health experts to understand why cysts recur in liver cancer patients and how it's important to keep monitoring them. According to health experts, a biannual liver scan is imperative, and it can detect signs of cysts. “Simple cysts less than 2-3 Cm can be observed with repeat scans every 6 months to 1 year. Suspicious or malignant cysts need surgical resection and oncological treatment based on the histopathology and patient condition,” Dr Manjunath NML, Sr Consultant, Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgeon, HCG Cancer Hospital, K R Road, Bengaluru. What Are Liver Cysts? How It's Linked To CancerLiver cysts are like bags that are filled with fluid. They are usually not cancer. Most people who have liver cysts do not get cancer. However, just because one has a cyst, it does not mean it's cancer. “Cysts in the liver are typically harmless and unrelated to liver cancer. However, unusual types of cysts may suggest malignant changes that need further examination, particularly among risk groups,” Dr. Govind Nandakumar, Consultant – Gastrointestinal Surgery, Manipal Hospitals Hebbal, told HealthandMe. The experts noted that cases of recurring cysts related to liver cancer are uncommon. But they occur because of the presence of cancerous cells, regrowth of the organ, chronic conditions like cirrhosis.“It is not very common for a cyst to recur after liver cancer treatment. If a cyst does return, it could indicate that the liver is not healthy. Sometimes, what appears to be a recurrent cyst may actually be an infection or a blockage. Regular follow-up with a doctor is important so that any issues can be detected early. If a problem is identified in time, it can be treated, and more serious complications can be prevented,” Dr. Hemkant Verma, Oncology Consultant, Shardacare Healthcity, to HealthandMe. Also read: 1 In 4 Diabetic Patients in India Suffer from Liver Fibrosis, Finds Lancet StudyAre There Early Warning Signs Patients Should Watch For? Many liver cysts do not cause any problems in the early stages. That is why regular check-ups with a doctor are important. If a cyst grows or becomes problematic, symptoms may begin to appear. These can include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, weight loss, yellowing of the skin, fatigue.“Liver cysts are fluid-filled cavities in the liver that may present as single or multiple lesions. The majority (around 95 per cent) are benign, while about 5 per cent may be cancerous. In many cases, the exact cause of their formation is unknown, and they may also be associated with conditions such as polycystic kidney or ovarian disease. Most patients are asymptomatic, and these cysts are often detected incidentally during routine scans,” said Dr. Manjunath, told HealthandMe. Is Recurrent Cysts A Cause Of Worry?    Recurrent cysts can be effectively managed and treated over time. The recurrence does not necessarily imply the progression of the condition itself; however, more tests may be required to determine whether cysts are malignant or benign. “Cysts with thick walls, septations inside, and solid components in them are more likely to be cancerous. If the cysts are large, they cause symptoms like pain, distension, and obstruction of the bowel or biliary tract,” Dr Manjunath said. The experts explained that diagnosis can be achieved by scans like ultrasonography, Computerized Tomography CT or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Suspicious cysts must be checked via biopsy to confirm malignancy. While suspicious or malignant cysts require surgical resection and oncological treatment, symptomatic cysts, even if benign, may also require removal. However, if a liver cyst is detected without suspicious features and is asymptomatic, it usually does not require any intervention, Dr. Manjunath noted.

dipika kakkar why liver cancer patients must repeat scans twice a year: doctors explain

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