The liver is a very important organ, with many functions critical to  regulating metabolic processes. Made up of four lobes, it is the largest gland in the body and occupies the top right-hand part of the abdominal cavity. The liver converts excess glucose to glycogen for storage as a food reserve. Excess amounts of amino acids are converted to urea for excretion by the kidneys and bile is produced for storage in the gall bladder. Some poisons, especially medicines are detoxified and broken down for easy absorption.

Liver enlargement can cause pain, swelling or tenderness in the upper right section of the abdomen, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, as in jaundice, itching all over the body and swollen legs. In an advanced stage, symptoms may include fever, appetite and weight loss, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, general weakness, and loss of sexual drive.