Regression of liver cell adenomas associated with oral contraceptives

Hepatocellular adenomas with severe intra-abdominal bleeding, related to an underlying coagulation disorder: a case report

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular adenoma is a rare benign liver tumor. Typically, hepatocellular adenomas are solitary and are found in young women who use estrogen-containing contraceptives. The occurrence of multiple hepatocellular adenoma has been linked to higher body mass index, and as the prevalence of overweight increases, multiple hepatocellular adenomas are seen more often. An hepatocellular adenoma does not always necessitate treatment, as they can regress under conservative strategies. In incidental cases, an adenoma presents owing to bleeding, which is mostly self-limiting. If it is not, embolization of hepatic involved vessels is indicated.

CASE PRESENTATION

In this case report, we discuss a 42-year old Caucasian woman with multiple hepatocellular bleeds, treated by multiple endovascular procedures. After the first embolization of an adenoma in the right liver lobe, a second bleed occurred in the left lobe, necessitating additional endovascular intervention. During admittance, treatment was complicated by pulmonary embolism and a pneumonia. During follow-up, our patient was diagnosed with antiphospholipid syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Hepatocellular adenoma is a rare diagnosis that requires centralized expertise. This particular case illustrates the complexity of treatment strategies for associated intra-abdominal bleeding and possible complications. Although liver adenoma is often an incidental finding, it can also result in significant morbidity. Centralization of treatment leads to expertise in managing complex treatment strategies.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Focal Liver Lesions

Focal liver lesions (FLLs) have become an increasingly common finding on abdominal imaging, especially asymptomatic and incidental liver lesions. Gastroenterologists and hepatologists often see these patients in consultation and make recommendations for management of multiple types of liver lesions, including hepatocellular adenoma, focal nodular hyperplasia, hemangioma, and hepatic cystic lesions including polycystic liver disease. Malignancy is important to consider in the differential diagnosis of FLLs, and healthcare providers must be familiar with the diagnosis and management of FLLs. This American College of Gastroenterology practice guideline uses the best evidence available to make diagnosis and management recommendations for the most common FLLs.

Variation in the management of benign liver tumors: A European survey and case vignette study

BACKGROUND

Management of focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) and hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), is multidisciplinary and subject to practice variation. We aimed to evaluate variation in clinical management of FNH and HCA in Europe.

METHODS

We distributed an online survey (November 2021-March 2022) among 294 European experts. The survey included questions on local practice and included eight clinical vignettes. The clinical vignettes focused on FNH or HCA management in the setting of sex, lifestyle modification, and pregnancy.

RESULTS

The response rate was 32% and respondents included surgeons (38%), gastroenterologists/hepatologists (25%), radiologists (32%), and pathologists (1.6%) from ten European countries. We observed practice variation with regard to lifestyle modification and imaging follow-up in patients with FNH, and with regard to the management of HCA >5 cm before and during pregnancy. Finally, the management of HCA >5 cm after lifestyle modification deviated from EASL guideline recommendations.

CONCLUSION

Our survey illustrates variability in FNH and HCA management in Europe. Several areas were identified for future research and guideline recommendations, including FNH follow-up and the management of HCA >5 cm. We propose the organization of Delphi consensus meetings to prioritize areas of research and update current guidelines to optimize management for all patients with benign liver tumors.

Benign liver lesions 2022: Guideline for clinical practice of Associazione Italiana Studio del Fegato (AISF), Società Italiana di Radiologia Medica e Interventistica (SIRM), Società Italiana di Chirurgia (SIC), Società Italiana di Ultrasonologia in Medicina e Biologia (SIUMB), Associazione Italiana di Chirurgia Epatobilio-Pancreatica (AICEP), Società Italiana Trapianti d'Organo (SITO), Società Italiana di Anatomia Patologica e Citologia Diagnostica (SIAPEC-IAP) - Part II - Solid lesions

Benign liver lesions are increasingly diagnosed in daily clinical practice due to the growing use of imaging techniques for the study of the abdomen in patients who have non-specific symptoms and do not have an increased risk of hepatic malignancy. They include simple or parasitic hepatic cysts and solid benign tumors which differ widely in terms of prevalence, clinical relevance, symptoms and natural history and often lead to significant clinical problems relating to diagnosis and clinical management. Following the need to have updated guidelines on the management of benign focal liver lesions, the Scientific Societies mainly involved in their management have promoted the drafting of a new dedicated document. This document was drawn up according to the present Italian rules and methodologies necessary to produce clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic guidelines based on evidence. Here we present the second part of the guideline, concerning the diagnosis and clinical management of hemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia, and hepatocellular adenoma.

Benign focal liver lesions: The role of magnetic resonance imaging

Liver lesions are common findings in radiologists' daily routine. They are a complex category of pathology that range from solitary benign lesions to primary liver cancer and liver metastases. Benign focal liver lesions can arise from different liver cell types: Epithelial (hepatocytes and biliary cells) and nonepithelial (mesenchymal cells). Liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a fundamental radiological method in these patients as it allows with its multiparametric approach optimal non-invasive tissue characterization. Furthermore, advanced liver MRI techniques such as diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatobiliary contrast agents have improved the detection of focal liver lesions and can be highly effective in differentiating pseudotumor from tumors, as well as benign from malignant lesions, and can also be used for differential diagnosis. Although histological examination can be useful in making a definitive diagnosis, MRI is an important modality in the diagnosis of liver lesions with a significant impact on patient care. This aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of benign liver lesions on MRI.

Multidisciplinary Simulation Improves Resident Confidence for Pregnant Patients Requiring Surgical Intervention

Introduction: Hepatocellular adenomas are a rare but serious cause of bleeding, which is further complicated by pregnancy. Interprofessional cooperation is a key component of residency education, thus simulations designed to integrate multiple programs are mutually beneficial. This simulation details surgical and obstetric management of a pregnant patient in hemorrhagic shock from a bleeding hepatocellular adenoma. Objectives for the study were to evaluate learners’ confidence to 1) prioritize the care of a pregnant patient with hemoperitoneum and hemorrhagic shock, 2) demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration with other specialties, 3) apply massive transfusion protocol (MTP) in the appropriate clinical setting, and 4) analyze critical decisions for evaluating pregnant females with severe abdominal pain.

Methods: Obstetric, general surgery, and anesthesia residents, along with labor and delivery nurses participated in a simulated clinical scenario that focused on the management of a pregnant patient in hemorrhagic shock. The learners evaluated the educational session using a standard Return on Investment in Learning survey immediately following the session.

Results: A total of 23 residents and medical students gave feedback on the experience. The main learning objectives were met with increased confidence in the four learning objectives by 77.3-95.4% of responders. Overall, greater than 90% of participants felt the simulation was relevant to their training and realistic, with 100% responding that the course provided new, or clarified existing information for them.

Conclusion: A multidisciplinary simulation-based educational intervention was successful in improving learner confidence in managing a complicated surgical emergency in a pregnant patient with inter-residency cooperation.

KETOgenic diet therapy in patients with HEPatocellular adenoma: study protocol of a matched interventional cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is an uncommon, solid and benign liver lesion, mainly occurring in women using oral contraceptives. Patients are advised to stop using oral contraceptives (OC) and, as overweight is frequently observed, dietary restrictions. Metabolic changes are assumed to play a role and it has been suggested that diet may help to reduce tumour size. A low-calorie ketogenic diet (LCKD) has been shown to induce weight loss and multiple metabolic changes, including the reduction of portal insulin concentrations, which downregulates hepatic growth hormone receptors. Weight reduction and an LCKD can potentially reduce the size of HCAs.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We designed a matched, interventional cohort study to determine the effect of an LCKD on the regression of HCA. The study population consists of female subjects with an HCA, 18-50 years of age, body mass index>25 kg/m², who are entering a surveillance period including cessation of OC. A historical control group will be matched. The intervention consists of an LCKD (approximately 35 g carbohydrate/1500 kcal/day) for 3 months, followed by a less strict LCKD for 3 months (approximately 60 g carbohydrate/1500 kcal/day). Main study endpoint is the diameter of the HCA after 6 months, as compared with the historic control group. Secondary endpoints include adherence, quality of life, change in physical activity, liver fat content, body weight, body composition and resting energy expenditure.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The medical ethical committee has approved the study protocol, patient information files and consent procedure and other study-related documents and procedures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NL75014.078.20; Pre-results. https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/9092.

Guidelines for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Adenoma in the Era of Molecular Biology: An Experience-Based Surgeons' Perspective

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular adenoma (HA) is a rare benign liver tumor with increasing incidence affecting young women. In the last years, much has changed in diagnosis, classification, and treatment, due to the identification of different molecular subtypes. With the evolving knowledge, especially on molecular characteristics of the disease, we are far from a consensus of how to deal with such a multifaceted benign disease METHODS: In the last 20 years, we have treated 134 patients with HA with a mean age of 28 years, being 126 women. Fifty patients had a history of abdominal pain and 13 patients had an acute episode of pain due to rupture and bleeding. Until 2009, adenomas larger than 4 cm in diameter were resected, regardless of gender. From 2010 to 2016, only adenomas larger than 5 cm were referred for surgical treatment. Since 2016, resection was indicated in all female patients with non-steatotic adenomas larger than 5 cm and all adenomas in men.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

One hundred twenty-four patients were submitted to resection, being in 21 major resections. Since 2010, 74% of resections were done laparoscopically. Patients with ruptured adenomas were treated with transarterial embolization. Morbidity rate was 8.1% with no mortality. Authors discuss point-by-point all the aspects and presentations of the disease and the best approach. We proposed a therapeutic guideline based on the best available evidence and in our experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the complexity of the disease, the treatment of HA is one the best examples of an individualized approach.

Life-Threatening Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage of Steroid-Induced Hepatic Adenomas in a Healthy Man

Hepatocellular adenomas are uncommon benign epithelial tumors of the liver that are associated with several risk factors such as anabolic androgens and oral contraceptive pills. They may present as incidental findings, with abdominal pain or hemorrhage. This case report details the presentation and management of a life-threatening hepatocellular adenomas hemorrhage in a seemingly healthy 28-year-old man. After initial conservative management, a clinical deterioration prompted urgent reevaluation and successful embolization of the liver through transarterial embolization. As oral contraceptive pills use and anabolic steroid abuse have become more prevalent in recent decades, we may begin to see more of these presentations.

A multicentre retrospective analysis on growth of residual hepatocellular adenoma after resection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a benign liver tumour that may require resection in select cases. The aim of this study was to the assess growth of residual HCA in the remnant liver and to advise on an evidence-based management strategy.

METHOD

This multicentre retrospective cohort study included all patients with HCA who underwent surgery of HCA and had residual HCA in the remnant liver. Growth was defined as an increase of >20% in transverse diameter (RECIST criteria). Data on patient and HCA characteristics, diagnostic work-up, treatment and follow-up were documented and analysed.

RESULTS

A total of 134 patients were included, one male. At diagnosis, median age was 38yrs (IQR 30.0-44.0) and median BMI was 29.9 kg/m² (IQR 24.6-33.3). After resection, median number of residual sites of HCA was 3 (IQR 2-6). Follow-up of residual HCA showed regression in 24.6%, stable HCA in 61.9% and growth of at least one lesion in 11.2%. Three patients (2.2%) developed new HCA that were not visible on imaging prior to surgery. Four patients (3%, one male) underwent an intervention as growth was progressive. No statistically significant differences in clinical characteristics were found between patients with growing residual or new HCA versus those with stable or regressing residual HCA.

CONCLUSION

In patients with multiple HCA who undergo resection, growth of residual HCA is not uncommon but interventions are rarely needed as most lesions stabilize and do not show progressive growth. Surveillance is indicated when residual HCA show growth after resection, enabling intervention in case of progressive growth.

New insights in the management of Hepatocellular Adenoma

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) are benign liver tumours that may be complicated by haemorrhage or malignant transformation to hepatocellular carcinoma. Epidemiological data are fairly outdated, but it is likely to assume that the incidence has increased over the past decades as HCA are more often incidentally found due to the more widespread use of imaging techniques and the increased incidence of obesity. Various molecular subgroups have been described. Each of these molecular subgroups are defined by specific gene mutations and pathway activations. Additionally, they are all related to specific risk factors and show a various biological behaviour. These molecular subgroups may be identified using immunohistochemistry and molecular characterization. Contrast-enhanced MRI is the recommended imaging modality to analyse patients with suspected hepatocellular adenoma allowing to determine the subtype in up to 80%. Surgical resection remains to be the golden standard in treating HCA, although resection is deemed unnecessary in a large number of cases, as studies have shown that the majority of HCA will regress over time without complications such as haemorrhage or malignant transformation occurring. It is preferable to treat patients with suspected HCA in high volume centres with combined expertise of liver surgeons, hepatologists, radiologists and (molecular) pathologists.

A Shifting Paradigm in Diagnosis and Management of Hepatic Adenoma

BACKGROUND

New insights into molecular pathogenesis of hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) have allowed sub-classification based on distinct genetic alterations and a fresh look at characterizations of natural history. Clinically, this is important in understanding risk factors for two feared complications: malignant transformation and hemorrhage.

METHODS

PubMed literature search for hepatocellular adenoma over all years, excluding case reports and articles focusing on multiple adenomas or adenomatosis.

RESULTS

The β-catenin exon 3 mutated HCA accounts for about 10% of all HCAs and is associated with the highest risk of malignant transformation. The HF1α subtype accounts for 30-40% of all HCAs and has the lowest risk of malignant transformation. Gender has also emerged as an increasingly important risk factor and males with HCA are at considerably higher risk of malignant transformation, regardless of tumor size. The increasing use of gadoxetic-enhanced MRI has allowed for improved differentiation of HCAs from focal nodular hyperplasia, as well as the identification of specific radiologic features of some subtypes, particularly the inflammatory and HF1α HCAs.

CONCLUSIONS

Classification of HCA by subtype has important implications for patient counseling and treatment given variable risks of malignant transformation and hemorrhage. Males and those with β-catenin exon 3 mutated HCAs are two groups who should always be counselled to undergo surgical resection. On the other hand, in the lower risk HF1α subtype observation is appropriate in lesions < 5 cm and may even be considered in larger lesions as longer follow-up data is aggregated and tumorigenesis is better understood.

Growth of hepatocellular adenoma during pregnancy: A prospective study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The presence of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) in pregnant women requires special consideration, as it has been reported to carry the risk of growth and clinically significant haemorrhage. In this prospective study we assessed aspects of growth of HCA <5 cm during pregnancy.

METHODS

This was a multicentre prospective cohort study in pregnant women with suspected HCA <5 cm on imaging. Definitive HCA diagnosis was established by MRI with hepatobiliary contrast agents (LCE-MRI), preferably before pregnancy. If at study inclusion a definitive diagnosis was lacking, LCE-MRI was performed after giving birth. Growth of the adenoma (defined as an increase of >20%) was closely monitored with ultrasound examinations throughout pregnancy.

RESULTS

Of the 66 women included, 18 were excluded from analysis because postpartum LCE-MRI did not confirm the diagnosis of HCA and showed the lesion to be focal nodular hyperplasia. The remaining 48 women, with an HCA confirmed by LCE-MRI, were followed during 51 pregnancies. Median age was 30 years (IQR 27-33) and median body mass index 31.9 kg/m² (IQR 26.3-36.6). Growth of HCA was seen in 13 of the pregnancies (25.5%); the median increase was 14 mm (IQR 8-19). One woman whose HCA grew to >70 mm successfully underwent transarterial embolization at week 26 of pregnancy to prevent further growth. The other 50 pregnancies proceeded without complications.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that an HCA <5 cm confers minimal risk to a pregnant woman and none to her child. HCA increased in size during a quarter of pregnancies, so we recommend close monitoring with ultrasound examinations, enabling intervention if needed. In light of the large proportion of misdiagnosed HCA, LCE-MRI should be performed to prevent unnecessary anxiety in women with a benign liver lesion.

LAY SUMMARY

The presence of hepatocellular adenoma in pregnant women requires special consideration, as it carries the risk of growth and haemorrhage. In this study we followed 48 patients with hepatocellular adenoma <5 cm during 51 pregnancies and found that a hepatocellular adenoma during pregnancy confers minimal risk to the pregnant woman and none to her child.

Development and Validation of a Model to Predict Regression of Large Size Hepatocellular Adenoma

INTRODUCTION

Surgery is advocated in hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) >5 cm that do not regress to <5 cm after 6-12 months. The aim of this study was to develop a model for these patients, estimating the probability of HCA regression to <5 cm at 1 and 2 years follow-up.

METHODS

Data were derived from a multicenter retrospective cohort of female patients diagnosed with HCA >5 cm at first follow-up. Potential predictors included age, body mass index, and HCA diameter at diagnosis (T0), HCA-subtype (hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α inactivated HCA, inflammatory-HCA, unclassified HCA) and "T0-T1 regression-over-time" (percentage of regression between T0 and first follow-up (T1) divided by weeks between T0 and T1). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to develop a multivariable model with time to regression of HCA < 5 cm as outcome. Probabilities at 1 and 2 years follow-up were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 180 female patients were included. Median HCA diameter at T0 was 82.0 mm and at T1 65.0 mm. Eighty-one patients (45%) reached the clinical endpoint of regression to <5 cm after a median of 34 months. No complications occurred during follow-up. In multivariable analysis, the strongest predictors for regression to <5 cm were HCA diameter at T0 (logtransformed, hazard ratio (HR) 0.05), T0-T1 regression-over-time (HR 2.15) and HCA subtype inflammatory-HCA (HR 2.93) and unclassified HCA (HR 2.40), compared to hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α inactivated HCA (reference). The model yielded an internally validated c-index of 0.79.

DISCUSSION

In patients diagnosed with HCA > 5 cm that still exceed 5 cm at first follow-up, regression to <5 cm can be predicted at 1 and 2 years follow-up using this model. Although external validation in an independent population is required, this model may aid in decision-making and potentially avoid unnecessary surgery.

Ultrasound Imaging of Hepatocellular Adenoma Using the New Histology Classification

Hepatocellular adenoma is a rare benign liver tumor. Predisposing factors include hepatic storage diseases and some genetic conditions. A new histology-based classification has been proposed but to date, the corresponding ultrasound imaging features have not been reported. Here we review the new classification scheme and discuss the corresponding features on contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging.

Can point shear wave elastography differentiate focal nodular hyperplasia from hepatocellular adenoma

PURPOSE

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) and hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) are liver tumors that require different management. We assessed the potential of point shear wave elastography (pSWE) to differentiate FNH from HCA and the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of pSWE in the examination of these lesions and of native liver tissue (NLT).

METHODS

The study included 88 patients (65 FNH, 23 HCA). pSWE was performed by two experienced liver sonographers (observers 1 [O1] and 2 [O2]) and acquired within the lesion of interest and NLT. Group differences, optimal cutoff for characterization and interobserver reliability was assessed with Mann-Whitney-U, area under the ROC curce (AUROC) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Intraobserver reliability in NLT was assessed in 20 healthy subjects using ICC.

RESULTS

Median stiffness was significantly higher in FNH than in HCA (7.01 kPa vs 4.98 kPa for O1 (P = 0.017) and 7.68 kPa vs 6.00 kPa for O2 (P = 0.031)). A cutoff point for differentiation between the two entities could not be determined with an AUROC of 0.67 (O1) and 0.69 (O2). Interobserver reliability was good for lesion- stiffness (ICC = 0.86) and poor for NLT stiffness (ICC = 0.09). In healthy subjects, intraobserver reliability for NLT-stiffness was poor for O1 (ICC = 0.23) and moderate for O2 (ICC = 0.62).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that pSWE cannot reliably differentiate FNH from HCA. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability for pSWE in NLT were insufficient. Interpretation of results gained with this method should be done with great caution.

Retrospective study on timing of resection of hepatocellular adenoma

Background

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a benign liver tumour that may be complicated by bleeding or malignant transformation. Present guidelines advise cessation of oral contraceptives and surgical resection if the lesion is still larger than 5 cm at 6 months after diagnosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether this 6-month interval is sufficient to expect regression of a large HCA to 5 cm or smaller.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all patients with an HCA larger than 5 cm diagnosed between 1999 and 2015 with follow-up of at least 6 months. Medical records were reviewed for patient characteristics, clinical presentation, lesion characteristics, management and complications. Differences in characteristics were assessed between patients kept under surveillance and those who underwent treatment for an HCA larger than 5 cm.

Results

Some 194 patients were included, of whom 192 were women. Eighty-six patients were kept under surveillance and 108 underwent HCA treatment. Patients in the surveillance group had a significantly higher BMI (P = 0·029), smaller baseline HCA diameter (P &lt; 0·001), more centrally located lesions (P &lt; 0·001) and were more likely to have multiple lesions (P = 0·001) than those in the treatment group. There were no significant differences in sex, age at diagnosis, symptoms, complication rates and HCA subtype distribution. Time-to-event analysis in patients managed conservatively and those still undergoing treatment more than 6 months after diagnosis showed that 69 of 118 HCAs (58·5 per cent) regressed to 5 cm or smaller after a median of 104 (95 per cent c.i. 80–128) weeks. Larger HCAs took longer to regress (P &lt; 0·001). No complications were documented during follow-up.

Conclusion

This study suggests that a 6-month cut-off point for assessment of regression of HCA larger than 5 cm to no more than 5 cm is too early. As no complications were documented during follow-up, the cut-off point in women with typical, non-β-catenin-activated HCA could be prolonged to 12 months, irrespective of baseline diameter.

Management and outcome of hepatocellular adenoma with massive bleeding at presentation

AIM

To evaluate outcome of acute management and risk of rebleeding in patients with massive hemorrhage due to hepatocellular adenoma (HCA).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included all consecutive patients who presented to our hospital with massive hemorrhage (grade II or III) due to ruptured HCA and were admitted for observation and/or intervention between 1999-2016. The diagnosis of HCA was based on radiological findings from contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or pathological findings from biopsy or resection of the HCA. Hemorrhage was diagnosed based on findings from computed tomography or MRI. Medical records were reviewed for demographic features, clinical presentation, tumor features, initial and subsequent management, short- and long-term complications and patient and lesion follow-up.

RESULTS

All patients were female (n = 23). Treatment in the acute phase consisted of embolization (n = 9, 39.1%), conservative therapy (n = 13, 56.5%), and other intervention (n = 1, 4.3%). Median hemoglobin level decreased significantly more on days 0-3 in the intervention group than in the patients initially treated conservatively (0.9 mmol/L vs 2.4 mmol/L respectively, P = 0.006). In total, 4 patients suffered severe short-term complications, which included hypovolemic shock, acute liver failure and abscess formation. After a median follow-up of 36 mo, tumor regression in non-surgically treated patients occurred with a median reduction of 76 mm down to 25 mm. Four patients underwent secondary (elective) treatment (i.e., tumor resection) to address HCA size of > 5 cm and/or desire for future pregnancy. One case of rebleeding was documented (4.3%). None of the patients experienced long-term complication (mean follow-up time: 36 mo).

CONCLUSION

With a 4.3% risk of rebleeding, secondary (elective) treatment of HCA after massive hemorrhage may only be considered in patients with persistent HCA > 5 cm.

Gender differences in liver disease and the drug-dose gender gap

Although gender-based medicine is a relatively recent concept, it is now emerging as an important field of research, supported by the finding that many diseases manifest differently in men and women and therefore, might require a different treatment. Sex-related differences regarding the epidemiology, progression and treatment strategies of certain liver diseases have long been known, but most of the epidemiological and clinical trials still report results only about one sex, with consequent different rate of response and adverse reactions to treatment between men and women in clinical practice. This review reports the data found in the literature concerning the gender-related differences for the most representative hepatic diseases.

An unusual case of left hepatectomy for Focal Nodular Hyperplasia (FNH) linked to the use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AASs)

INTRODUCTION

Focal Nodular Hyperplasia (FNH) is the second most common benign tumor of the liver. Clinically FNH is asymptomatic and discovered incidentally . The pathogenesis is unclear; FNH is usually asymptomatic. When the tumor is large, it may be painful. Surgery is recommended only in the case of complications such as compression of adjacent organs, lesion progression with tumor size >5cm and presence of symptoms.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 30 years old man, was evaluated during a routine visit, for diffuse abdominal pain and weight loss; Abdominal ultrasound showed no evidence of biliary obstruction but the US shows a hypoechoic, well defined focal lesion in the left liver. For a more accurate diagnosis a Magnetic Resonance detected a focal area about 14×9 cm in diameter, hypointense. Liver biopsy was not done.We could not diagnose it definitively as FNH from the results of imaging studies; so for the size of symptomatic lesion, the undefined diagnosis of FNH ,and due to the great increase in the size of the mass located in the left lobe, during such a short period , the surgery was been recommended.

DISCUSSION

FNH is the second most common hepatic lesion, but clinically relevant cases of FNH are rare with a reported prevalence in US studies of 0,03%. In our case the young patient was taking dietary supplements including anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs), carnitine and l-arginine.

CONCLUSION

The particularity of our case is the increasing of the lesion in two years in which the patient made use of anabolic steroids. under use of . This could be the explanation for increasing of nodule.

Evidence of good prognosis of hepatocellular adenoma in post-menopausal women

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a rare benign liver tumor, which typically develops in women in their reproductive phase and is associated with the use of oral contraceptives. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether follow-up of HCA can be safely terminated after the occurrence of menopause. Secondary, we studied the impact of the diagnosis HCA on health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional cohort study, including 48 post-menopausal women with HCA. Patients underwent ultrasound examination and the size of HCA was compared to size at the last follow-up imaging (CT, MRI or ultrasound). HRQoL was evaluated by the Liver Disease Symptom Index 2.0 and Short Form 12.

RESULTS

Median time since last follow-up was 60.5months. In 44 patients 43.5% of the lesions were undetectable, 32.6% were stable in size and 19.6% became smaller. Mean diameter of HCA was 17.2mm compared to 35.9mm at last follow-up (p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between difference in size and time since last follow-up (p<0.001). No significant effect of HCA subtype on difference in size was found. Regarding HRQoL, study patients scored significantly lower on the mental component summary score compared to the general female Dutch population.

CONCLUSIONS

HCA diameter became significantly smaller after the occurrence of menopause and as time progresses, this regression increased. This suggests that routine follow-up of HCA <5cm in post-menopausal women after subsequent follow-up is not required. Notably we found that patient's mental HRQoL was inferior to that of the general population.

LAY SUMMARY

In this study we investigated if hepatocellular adenoma, a benign tumor of the liver that is found mostly in women and is associated with female hormones, regresses in size after the occurrence of menopause in female patients over 50years of age. We made an ultrasound of the liver lesion and found that the average size of the adenomas becomes significantly smaller. This could mean that female patients with a small (<5cm) hepatocellular adenoma who are post-menopausal do not have to remain in follow-up.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

MEC-2015-385.

Oral Contraceptive Associated Liver Tumors

Over the past few years an association between oral contraceptive use and liver tumors has been suggested, and this is now being studied on an epidemiological basis. Large scale retrospective studies to date support a relationship between oral contraceptive use and benign liver tumors. These tumors carry a significant risk of spontaneous rupture. The possible relationship with malignant liver tumors is also discussed. Clinical aspects of these tumors are presented, as well as suspected oncogenic mechanisms.

Benign Liver Tumors and Oral Contraceptive Therapy

Clinical data obtained from 1972–1978 on 107 cases of oral-contraceptive-steroid-associated hepatic adenomas is presented in tabular form. Although a cause-and-effect relationship has not been definitively established, experimental evidence that supports an etiological role of contraceptive steroids in the production of benign liver tumors is described. Based on metabolic and toxicity studies, a mechanism is postulated whereby contraceptive steroid therapy may result in induced activities of drug metabolizing enzymes. In certain circumstances, increased levels of activated metabolites may irreversibly bind to hepatic macromolecules and produce altered cell growth. The possible promoter role of oral contraceptive steroids in tumor formation is discussed.

Human Liver Neoplasia and Steroid Exposure

This study examines experience with over 250 liver tumors in young women. Most were oral contraceptive related. There were two distinct benign liver tumor types: focal nodular hyperplasia and liver cell adenoma. Six benign liver tumors were examined for estrogen receptors. They did not contain significant quantities of estrogen receptor, supporting experimental studies of an epigenetic origin. Multiple tumors occurred in about 20% of cases but did not change the favorable prognosis associated with benign tumors. The most significant source of morbidity and mortality was spontaneous hemorrhage or rupture. Twenty-three women in this series had hepatocellular carcinoma and the majority of these were associated with prolonged steroid usage. These malignant liver tumors occurred in young females without cirrhosis or other factors known to be associated with hepatic malignancy. Unlike “hepatocellular carcinomas” reported in males taking anabolic androgenic steroids, the tumors in females had a high rate of metastasis to a variety of organs. The risk of liver tumors in oral contraceptive users remains unknown, but must be very small since an estimated 150 million women worldwide and 40 million in the U.S.A. have used oral contraceptives.

Diagnosis and treatment of benign liver nodules: Brazilian Society of Hepatology (SBH) recommendations

Space-occupying lesions of the liver may be cystic or solid. Ultrasonography is an extremely useful method for initial screening, and suffices for diagnosis of simple hepatic cysts. Complex cysts and solid masses require computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging for confirmation. Wide surgical excision is indicated in cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma. Clinical and epidemiological data are important, as nodules in noncirrhotic livers are more likely to be benign. Hemangiomas, the most common benign tumors, require no follow-up after diagnostic confirmation if they are small and asymptomatic. Patients with giant, symptomatic hemangiomas or compression of adjacent structures should be referred to hepatobiliary centers for potential surgery. The genetic heterogeneity of hepatocellular adenomas and their epidemiology and prognosis prompted classification of these tumors into four subtypes based on histology and immunohistochemistry. The major complications of hepatocellular adenomas are rupture with bleeding and malignant transformation. Rupture occurs in approximately 30% of cases. The main risk factors are tumors size >5 cm and inflammatory subtype. Hepatocellular adenomas may enlarge during pregnancy due to marked hormonal stimulation. As oral contraceptive pills and anabolic steroids have associated with hepatocellular adenomas growth, particularly of the hepatocyte nuclear factor-1alfa subtype, these drugs should be discontinued. Focal nodular hyperplasia is the second most common benign tumor of the liver. It is most frequent in women aged 20 to 60, and 70% to 90% of cases are asymptomatic. In the absence of a central scar and/or other hallmarks of Focal nodular hyperplasia, with uncertainty between this diagnosis and hepatocellular adenoma, liver-specific contrast agents are indicated.

Management of hepatic adenomatosis

Hepatic adenomatosis (HeAs) is a rare clinical entity defined by the presence of 10 or more hepatic adenomas (HA) within the background of an otherwise normal liver parenchyma, in the absence of glycogen storage disease or anabolic steroid use. HA is a benign tumor associated with oral contraceptive use. Recent advances in pathogenesis and classification of HA have questioned the distinction between these two diseases. HA are currently classified into four different subtypes with genotypic and phenotypic correlation: HNF-1a inactivated HA, B-catenin activated HA, inflammatory HA, and undetermined subtype. The clinical presentation of HA depends on the lesion size and the subtype. MRI using hepatospecific contrast agents is helpful in diagnosing the most common subtypes. When diagnosis is uncertain, biopsy with immunohistochemistry is used to diagnose and classify the lesions. Management is governed by the molecular subtype and tumor size. Pregnancy is not routinely discouraged but management is individualized.

ACG clinical guideline: the diagnosis and management of focal liver lesions

Focal liver lesions (FLL) have been a common reason for consultation faced by gastroenterologists and hepatologists. The increasing and widespread use of imaging studies has led to an increase in detection of incidental FLL. It is important to consider not only malignant liver lesions, but also benign solid and cystic liver lesions such as hemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia, hepatocellular adenoma, and hepatic cysts, in the differential diagnosis. In this ACG practice guideline, the authors provide an evidence-based approach to the diagnosis and management of FLL.

Hepatic adenoma

BACKGROUND

Benign liver tumors, due to its relative easeness its imaging identification, have their incidence increasing in population in recent years, becoming frequent in the clinical picture and often a challenge for clinicians and surgeons. Doctors began to face dilemmas related to diagnosis in asymptomatic patients with liver nodules.

AIM

Update the knowledge of hepatic adenomas due to the crescent diagnosis seen in the recent years.

METHODS

Was performed a literature review consulting Medline/PubMed, SciELO, Embase, Lilacs database with the following descriptors: hepatic adenoma, surgery, medical treatment, diagnosis, pathophysiology and molecular biology.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of incidental asymptomatic lesions is a major dilemma in clinical practice because it brings intense distress for patients and their families, and often become a challenge for the physician or surgeon. Injury is of particular interest because it can provide both benign evolution or potentially lethal complications. Recently, its resection is no more mandatory; currently, more individualized treatment are required, aiming less morbidity. In light of new advances in molecular biology, the physician who diagnoses the lesion must identify the potential unfavorable evolution, and recognize cases who need more aggressive medical management.

[Immunophenotypic classification of 3 cases of hepatocellular adenoma. Differential diagnosis with focal nodular hyperplasia]

Interest in adenomas has been renewed by the discovery of the molecular changes in these tumors. The latest World Health Organization publication on gastrointestinal tract tumors (2010) includes four types of hepatic adenomas, which are well characterized immunohistochemically, genotypically and phenotypically. In these tumors, medical history and morphological behavior play an important role in determining the risk of malignancy, mainly in adenomas with a b-catenin mutation. The presence of steatosis, inflammation, vascular changes linked to response to L-FABP, serum amyloid A, and glutamyl synthetase help to classify these tumors into four groups: hepatocellular adenomas with the HNF1A mutation (H-HCA), those with the b-catenin mutation (b-HCA), inflammatory HCA (IHCA), and HCA without markers. The absence of glypican 3 expression, HSP 70 and perivenular mapping of glutamyl synthetase helps to distinguish these tumors from well differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma. We describe the clinical, morphological and immunophenotypic features of three patients diagnosed with hepatic adenomas in a 2-year period.

Molecular pathogenesis of hepatic adenomas and its implications for surgical management

INTRODUCTION

Hepatic adenomas (HAs) are benign tumors of the liver, which can be solitary or multiple, and have a definite risk of malignant degeneration.

DISCUSSION

The pathogenesis and natural history of this disease entity were previously unknown. Recent research into the molecular pathogenesis of this condition has provided evidence for the malignant transformation of some of these adenomas. In the current article, we discuss the current evidence on the molecular biology underlying malignant transformation of hepatic adenomas and the implications for the surgical management of this disease.

Pregnancy and liver adenoma management: PALM-study

Background

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) in pregnant women requires special considerations because of the risk of hormone induced growth and spontaneous rupture, which may threaten the life of both mother and child. Due to scarcity of cases there is no evidence-based algorithm for the evaluation and management of HCA during pregnancy. Most experts advocate that women with HCA should not get pregnant or advise surgical resection before pregnancy. Whether it is justified to deny a young woman a pregnancy, as the biological behavior may be less threatening than presumed depends on the incidence of HCA growth and the subsequent clinical events during pregnancy.

We aim to investigate the management and outcome of HCA during pregnancy and labor based on a prospectively acquired online database in the Netherlands.

Methods/design

The Pregnancy And Liver adenoma Management (PALM) - study is a multicentre prospective study in three cohorts of pregnant patients. In total 50 pregnant patients, ≥ 18 years of age with a radiologically and/or histologically proven diagnosis of HCA will be included in the study. Radiological diagnosis of HCA will be based on contrast enhanced MRI. Lesions at inclusion must not exceed 5 cm. The study group will be compared to a healthy control group of 63 pregnant patients and a group of 63 pregnant patients with diabetes mellitus without HCA. During their pregnancy HCA patients will be closely monitored by means of repetitive ultrasound (US) at 14, 20, 26, 32 and 38 weeks of gestation and 6 and 12 weeks postpartum. Both control groups will undergo US of the liver at 14 weeks of gestation to exclude HCA lesions in the liver. All groups will be asked to fill out quality of life related questionnaires.

Discussion

The study will obtain information about the behaviour of HCA during pregnancy, the clinical consequences for mother and child and the impact of having a HCA during pregnancy on the health related quality of life of these young women. As a result of this study we will propose a decision-making model for the management of HCA during pregnancy.

Trial registration

Dutch trial register: NTR3034

Hepatocellular adenoma: an excellent indication for laparoscopic liver resection

OBJECTIVES

Laparoscopic resection for benign liver disease has gained wide acceptance in recent years and hepatocellular adenoma (HA) seems to be an appropriate indication. This study aimed to discuss diagnosis and treatment strategies, and to assess the feasibility, safety and outcomes of pure laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) in a large series of patients with HA.

METHODS

Of 88 patients who underwent pure LLR, 31 were identified as having HA. Diagnosis was based on radiological evaluation and resections were performed for lesions measuring >5.0 cm.

RESULTS

The sample included 29 female and two male patients. Their mean age was 33.2 years. A total of 27 patients had a single lesion, one patient had two and one had four lesions. The two remaining patients had liver adenomatosis. Mean tumour size was 7.5 cm. Three right hepatectomies, 17 left lateral sectionectomies and 11 wedge resections or segmentectomies were performed. There was no need for blood transfusion or conversion to open surgery. Postoperative complications occurred in two patients. Mean hospital stay was 3.8 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatocellular adenoma should be regarded as an excellent indication for pure LLR. Pure LLR is safe and feasible and should be considered the standard of care for the treatment of HA when performed by surgeons with experience in liver and laparoscopic surgery.

Biologic and clinical features of benign solid and cystic lesions of the liver

The widespread use of imaging analyses, either routinely or to evaluate symptomatic patients, has increased the detection of liver lesions (tumors and cysts) in otherwise healthy individuals. Although some of these incidentally discovered masses are malignant, most are benign and must be included in the differential diagnosis. The management of benign hepatic tumors ranges from conservative to aggressive, depending on the nature of the lesions. New imaging modalities, increased experience of radiologists, improved definition of radiologic characteristics, and a better understanding of the clinical features of these lesions have increased the accuracy of diagnoses and reduced the need for invasive diagnostic tests. These advances have led to constant adjustments in management approaches to benign hepatic lesions. We review the biologic and clinical features of some common hepatic lesions, to guide diagnosis and management strategies.

Validation of a liver adenoma classification system in a tertiary referral centre: implications for clinical practice

BACKGROUND & AIMS

A molecular and pathological classification system for hepatocellular adenomas (HCA) was recently introduced and four major subgroups were identified. We aimed to validate this adenoma classification system and to determine the clinical relevance of the subtypes for surgical management.

METHODS

Paraffin fixed liver tissue slides and resection specimens of patients radiologically diagnosed as HCA were retrieved from the department of pathology. Immunostainings included liver-fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP), serum amyloid A (SAA), C-reactive protein (CRP), glutamine synthetase (GS) and β-catenin.

RESULTS

From 2000 to 2010, 58 cases (71 lesions) were surgically resected. Fourteen lesions were diagnosed as focal nodular hyperplasia with a characteristic map-like staining pattern of GS. Inflammatory HCA expressing CRP and SAA was documented in 36 of 57 adenomas (63%). Three of these inflammatory adenomas were also β-catenin positive as well as GS positive and only one was CRP and SAA and GS positive. We identified eleven L-FABP-negative HCA (19%) and four β-catenin positive HCA (7%), without expression of CRP and SAA and with normal L-FABP staining, one of which was also GS positive. Six HCA were unclassifiable (11%). In three patients multiple adenomas of different subtypes were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Morphology and additional immunohistochemical markers can discriminate between different types of HCA in>90% of cases and this classification, including the identification of β-catenin positive adenomas may have important implications in the decision for surveillance or treatment. Interpretation of nuclear staining for β-catenin can be difficult due to uneven staining distribution or focal nuclear staining and additional molecular biology may be required.

Malignant transformation of hepatocellular adenomas into hepatocellular carcinomas: a systematic review including more than 1600 adenoma cases

BACKGROUND

Malignant transformation of hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) into hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) has been reported repeatedly and is considered to be one of the main reasons for surgical treatment. However, its actual risk is currently unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To provide an estimation of the frequency of malignant transformation of HCAs and to discuss its clinical implications.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted using the following databases: The Cochrane Hepatobiliary Group Controlled Trials Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PubMed, MEDLINE and EMBASE.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-seven relevant series and 17 case reports (a total of 1635 HCAs) were retrieved, reporting an overall frequency of malignant transformation of 4.2%. Only three cases (4.4%) of malignant alteration were reported in a tumour smaller than 5 cm in diameter.

DISCUSSION

Malignant transformation of HCAs into HCCs remains a rare phenomenon with a reported frequency of 4.2%. A better selection of exactly those patients presenting with an HCA with an amplified risk of malignant degeneration is advocated in order to reduce the number of liver resections and thus reducing the operative risk for these predominantly young patients. The Bordeaux adenoma tumour markers are a promising method of identifying these high-risk adenomas.

Spectrum of HNF1A somatic mutations in hepatocellular adenoma differs from that in patients with MODY3 and suggests genotoxic damage

OBJECTIVE

Maturity onset diabetes of the young type 3 (MODY3) is a consequence of heterozygous germline mutation in HNF1A. A subtype of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is also caused by biallelic somatic HNF1A mutations (H-HCA), and rare HCA may be related to MODY3. To better understand a relationship between the development of MODY3 and HCA, we compared both germline and somatic spectra of HNF1A mutations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We compared 151 somatic HNF1A mutations in HCA with 364 germline mutations described in MODY3. We searched for genotoxic and oxidative stress features in HCA and surrounding liver tissue.

RESULTS

A spectrum of HNF1A somatic mutations significantly differed from the germline changes in MODY3. In HCA, we identified a specific hot spot at codon 206, nonsense and frameshift mutations mainly in the NH(2)-terminal part, and almost all amino acid substitutions were restricted to the POU-H domain. The high frequency of G-to-T tranversions, predominantly found on the nontranscribed DNA strand, suggested a genotoxic mechanism. However, no features of oxidative stress were observed in the nontumor liver tissue. Finally, in a few MODY3 patients with HNF1A germline mutation leading to amino acid substitutions outside the POU-H domain, we identified a different subtype of HCA either with a gp130 and/or CTNNB1 activating mutation.

CONCLUSIONS

Germline HNF1A mutations could be associated with different molecular subtypes of HCA. H-HCA showed mutations profoundly inactivating hepatocyte nuclear factor-1alpha function; they are associated with a genotoxic signature suggesting a specific toxicant exposure that could be associated with genetic predisposition.

[Hepatocellular carcinoma in the non-cirrhotic liver]

Of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), 15-20% occur in the non-cirrhotic liver. All factors which cause HCC when liver cirrhosis (LC) is present, can also lead to HCC without LC. On the basis of the relative frequency, HCC can be roughly differentiated into 3 groups: 1) HCC, rarely occurring without cirrhosis (e.g. virus hepatitis, alcohol abuse). 2) HCC, frequently occurring without LC (alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, hemochromatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). 3) HCC, consistently occurring without LC (glycogen storage disease type 1, consumption of oral contraceptives/anabolic steroids). In groups 1 and 2 the level of hepatocellular toxicity necessary to reach LC is not yet achieved but the carcinogenic effect is already strong enough to induce HCC, possibly owing to the influence of additional carcinogens or host factors. In group 3, the carcinogenic effect is mediated by a long-standing alteration of the hepatocellular metabolism that is of low toxic effect and does not lead to cell death, but is nevertheless carcinogenic. In these cases, the initial formation of hepatocellular adenomas that subsequently transform into HCC is a common finding (adenoma-carcinoma sequence).

Approach to a liver mass

Incidentally discovered liver masses are becoming more common with the increasing application and power of imaging techniques for the evaluation of abdominal conditions. Although such masses are often benign, conclusive diagnoses must be established in order to provide appropriate patient care. Various imaging modalities can be utilized to accurately diagnose such masses without resort to more invasive diagnostic measures.

Liver cell adenoma: a multicenter analysis of risk factors for rupture and malignancy

BACKGROUND

Liver cell adenoma (LCA) is a benign hepatic tumor with poorly characterized risk for spontaneous rupture and malignant transformation.

METHODS

Records from five tertiary hepatobiliary centers were reviewed for all patients treated for LCA from 1997 to 2006. Clinicopathological data were collected and analyzed, and factors that were associated with rupture and/or malignant transformation were assessed by using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 124 patients were analyzed, of which 8 (6.5%) were men; 119 patients underwent resection, and 5 patients had embolic therapy only. Mean patient age was 39+/-11 years, and 55% had history of hormone use. Rupture occurred in 31 (25%) cases. Ruptured tumors were larger (10.5+/-4.5 cm vs. 7.2+/-4.8 cm; p=0.001), and no tumor <5 cm ruptured. Patients with ruptured LCAs were more likely to require preoperative blood transfusion (32% vs. 9%, p=0.006), preoperative embolization (16% vs. 1%, p=0.021), and major (>or=3 segments) hepatic resection (65% vs. 32%, p=0.003). By multivariate analysis, increasing tumor size (odds ratio (OR), 7.8; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.2-26.3; p<0.01) and recent (within 6 months) hormone use (OR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.5-13.3; p<0.01) remained independently associated with risk of rupture. Five cases (4%) had evidence of underlying malignancy, but none had LCA <8 cm in diameter.

CONCLUSION

In this multicenter analysis of patients with LCAs, risk of rupture correlated with increasing tumor size and recent hormone use. Rupture is associated with greater need for preoperative blood transfusion and major hepatic resection. These data suggest that patients with asymptomatic LCAs approaching 4 cm and those requiring hormonal therapy should undergo surgical therapy.

Laparoscopic staged adjustable gastric banding and liver resection in morbidly obese patient

We report the case of a 34-year old morbidly obese female, with a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome and birth control pill therapy, who underwent laparoscopic gastric banding. On laparoscopic exploration, a 4-cm liver neoplasm that was missed by preoperative ultrasound was incidentally found. The intraoperative biopsy was suggestive for a benign lesion of hepatocellular origin but could not make the differential diagnosis between focal nodular hyperplasia and adenoma. The neoplasm had atypical features on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging and was suggestive of liver adenoma. Six months after laparoscopic gastric banding, the patient presented with a weight loss of 24 kg and consented to liver resection. A laparoscopic resection of liver segment 3 was performed. Atypical liver neoplasms are subject to potential degeneration, rupture, and bleeding; therefore, they should be treated surgically to allow final diagnosis and potential cure of the disease. In this case, a staged approach was effective in obtaining substantial weight loss and a lesser degree of liver steatosis to enable the performance of a laparoscopic liver resection.

Surgical management of hepatocellular adenoma: take it or leave it?

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular adenoma (HA) is a rare benign tumor of the liver. Surgical resection is generally indicated to reduce risks of hemorrhage and malignant transformation. We sought to evaluate clinical presentation, surgical management, and outcomes of patients with HA at our institution.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 41 patients who underwent surgical resection for HA between 1988 and 2007.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients were women, and the median age at presentation was 36 years (range, 19-65 years). The most common clinical presentation was abdominal pain (70%) followed by incidental radiological finding (17%). Twenty-two patients had a history of oral contraceptive use. Median number of HA was one (range, 1-3). There were 32 open cases (3 trisectionectomy, 15 hemihepatectomy, 7 sectionectomy, 4 segmentectomy, and 3 wedge resection), and 9 laparoscopic cases (1 hemihepatectomy, 5 sectionectomy, 1 segmentectomy, and 2 wedge resection). The median estimated blood loss was 225 mL (range, 0-3400 mL). The median length of stay was 6 days (range, 1-15 days). Surgical morbidities included pleural effusion requiring percutaneous drainage (n = 2), pneumonia (n = 1), and wound infection (n = 1). There was no perioperative mortality. Twelve patients had hemorrhage from HA. Hepatocellular carcinoma was observed in two patients with HA. Median follow-up was 23 months (range, 1-194 months), at which time all patients were alive.

CONCLUSION

In view of 29% hemorrhagic and 5% malignant complication rates, we recommend surgical resection over observation if patient comorbidities and anatomic location of HA are favorable. A laparoscopic approach can be safely used in selected cases.

Vanishing liver tumours

Spontaneous resolution of liver tumours is a rare, but recognized entity that has been reported to occur within the spectrum of benign and malignant liver tumours occurring in both adult and paediatric population. The aetiology of this unusual phenomenon is not clearly understood. In this article we present case examples of various benign and malignant liver tumours that have regressed spontaneously without treatment together with a review of the literature, and a summary of the current understanding of the pathogenesis of these tumours.

Distinguishing benign from malignant liver tumours

Liver masses are very common and most are benign. It is therefore important to avoid unnecessary interventions for benign lesions, while at the same time ensuring accurate diagnosis of hepatic malignancies. Many cancer patients, like the general population, have incidental benign liver lesions. In planning treatment for cancer patients, it is critical to avoid inappropriate treatment decisions based on misdiagnosis of a benign lesion as a metastasis or primary liver malignancy. This article describes the salient imaging features of the common benign liver masses and outlines a general approach to distinguishing between benign and malignant hepatic lesions.