Giant biliary cystadenoma: case report and literature review

Biliary cystadenoma is a very rare cystic neoplasm of the liver. This tumor is insidiously progressive and usually presents in white females in their fifth decade. It has a characteristic appearance on ultrasound, computed tomography, and angiography. The exact etiology of these tumors is unknown, but several theories have been proposed. Historically these cystic tumors have been treated by a variety of techniques including aspiration, fenestration, internal drainage, and resection. Previously reported series have confirmed a >90 percent recurrence rate with anything less than complete excision. In addition biliary cystadenoma is a premalignant lesion and only surgical excision can differentiate it from its malignant counterpart, biliary cystadenocarcinoma.