Wandering liver

Wandering liver, also known as hepatoptosis, is a rare condition where the liver is not in its normal position in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.

Instead, it is displaced downward, often due to laxity in the suspensory ligaments that normally hold it in place.

This can lead to intermittent abdominal pain, digestive disturbances, or even mechanical obstruction of the bowels in severe cases.

The condition can affect the body by causing pressure on surrounding organs, potentially leading to complications such as torsion or impaired blood flow to the liver.

It is more frequently seen in individuals with a lower body mass index, as the supporting structures of the liver may be weakened.

Diagnosis can be confirmed using imaging modalities such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, which can visualize the displacement of the liver.

Treatment may vary from conservative management to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of symptoms and associated complications.

In some cases, wearing a supportive abdominal binder might provide relief.

The condition requires careful monitoring to prevent potential complications, and individuals with wandering liver should be under the care of a healthcare provider familiar with this unusual anatomical anomaly.