Dipika Kakar diagnosed with a tumour in liver: What does it mean, and why does it happen?
Television actress Dipika Kakar, best known for her role in Sasural Simar Ka and as a winner of Bigg Boss 12, has recently been diagnosed with a tumour in her liver. The news was shared by her husband, actor Shoaib Ibrahim, through an emotional vlog titled “Need Your Prayers”—a video that has left fans concerned but also hopeful.While the final medical reports are still awaited, Shoaib confirmed that the tumour, located in the left side of her liver, is as big as a tennis ball. He added that doctors are now running a few more tests to confirm whether the tumour is cancerous or not. Until then, surgery remains a strong possibility, and the family is preparing for the road ahead.But beyond the headlines, this moment has also sparked curiosity and concern: What exactly is a liver tumour? Why does it develop? And what complications can it bring?
What exactly is a liver tumour?
A liver tumour refers to an abnormal growth of cells inside the liver. These growths can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). From Shoaib’s statement, it appears that Dipika’s tumour is currently believed to be non-cancerous, though a final biopsy will confirm it.The liver, one of the most important organs in the body, works quietly behind the scenes—filtering toxins, aiding digestion, and storing nutrients. When a tumour forms, especially of a noticeable size like a tennis ball, it can interfere with these vital functions.Not all tumours are harmful, but their size, location, and type determine whether they need to be surgically removed. In Dipika’s case, doctors have advised surgery to remove the tumour, regardless of its cancer status, to avoid future complications.
Why does a liver tumour happen?
A liver tumour can develop due to several reasons, and it’s not always linked to lifestyle or food habits. Here are some possible causes:
- Infections and inflammation: Chronic infections like hepatitis B or C can sometimes trigger the development of abnormal cells in the liver. In Dipika’s case, early blood tests showed signs of infection, which led to the discovery of the tumour.
- Hormonal imbalances: Especially in women, certain benign tumours known as hepatic adenomas can occur due to prolonged use of birth control pills or hormonal shifts during and after pregnancy.
- Genetic factors: Some people may have a family history of liver diseases or tumours, making them more susceptible.
- Unknown triggers: In some cases, doctors are unable to trace the exact cause. These are the toughest cases to predict or prevent.
It’s important to note that liver tumours don’t always present with major symptoms initially. Many are found accidentally—just like in Dipika’s situation, when she went for a scan due to recurring stomach pain.
Famed for her role in “Sasural Simar Ka” and as the winner of “Bigg Boss 12,” Dipika Kakar has an estimated net worth between ₹35 to ₹40 crores. She earns about ₹2.3 lakh per week on the show. After embracing motherhood, Dipika’s return to television through Celebrity MasterChef has been eagerly anticipated by her fans.
What are the possible complications?
A tumour in the liver, especially one of a significant size, can bring a set of risks even if it’s not cancerous:
- Pain and pressure: A growing tumour can press on surrounding organs, causing discomfort, bloating, or pain.
- Liver dysfunction: As the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, a tumour may affect its ability to function properly—leading to fatigue, nausea, or yellowing of the skin (jaundice).
- Internal bleeding: Some types of liver tumours, particularly adenomas, are known to rupture and cause internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening.
- Emotional and lifestyle impact: As Shoaib highlighted, beyond the physical impact, there’s also the emotional toll—especially for Dipika, who is a new mother and currently breastfeeding her one-year-old son, Ruhaan.
How is a liver tumour treated?
Treatment depends on the type, size, and nature of the tumour. Some common approaches include:
- Surgical removal: This is often the first step, especially for larger or suspicious growths. In Dipika’s case, doctors have suggested this to remove the tumour and prevent any future complications.
- Regular monitoring: For smaller, benign tumours that aren’t causing issues, doctors may recommend regular scans and follow-ups.
- Biopsy and lab tests: These are essential in understanding the nature of the tumour. Whether it’s cancerous or not determines if further treatments like chemotherapy or radiation are needed.
Dipika is currently in the waiting phase, as doctors are finalising all reports and tests before deciding the next steps.
The reality behind the news: It’s not always what it seems
The term tumour is often associated with fear. But not all tumours are cancerous. Shoaib was very clear in his video that, so far, there is no confirmation of cancer. This is crucial. The presence of a tumour doesn’t automatically mean cancer—it simply means that there’s a mass of tissue that needs medical attention.In Dipika’s case, the detection came early, thanks to her timely decision to get a CT scan after the pain didn’t subside. This reinforces a powerful reminder: even when symptoms seem small or familiar, like acidity or stomach ache, it’s better to dig deeper if they persist.
