What does hepatomegaly mean medically and how serious is it?

Hepatomegaly means an enlarged liver. The enlargement could be temporary due to inflammation from viral hepatitis or it could be more persistent. The two most common reasons for persistent hepatomegaly are over use of alcohol and a fatty liver (known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD). The hepatomegaly can be reversed by lifestyle changes including avoiding alcohol, a healthy diet, weight loss if necessary and exercise. Without treatment, alcoholic and fatty liver disease can lead to cirrhosis of the liver.