Polycystic liver disease is an inherited disorder characterized by many cysts of various sizes scattered throughout the liver. Polycystic liver disease (PLD) occurs isolated in the liver or in combination with polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Abdominal discomfort from swelling of the liver may occur; however, most affected individuals do not have any symptoms. In some cases, polycystic liver disease appears to occur randomly, with no apparent cause (sporadically). Most cases are inherited as an autosomal dominant genetic trait. Sometimes, cysts are found in the liver in association with the presence of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (AD-PKD). In fact, about half of the people who have AD-PKD experience liver cysts. However, kidney cysts are uncommon in those affected by polycystic liver disease.