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[Intrahepatic splenosis: a case report]
Yasuhiro Nakata1, Hideo Yoshida, Takahiro Shiono
1Department of Radiology, Kanto-Rosai Hospital.
Abstract:
We report a case of intrahepatic splenosis in a 55-year-old man. The lesion in the right lobe of the liver appeared similar to hemangioma on dynamic CT and MRI, but was compatible with normal splenic tissue. On T2WI after the injection of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO), the lesion showed a loss of signal intensity but remained slightly hyperintense relative to the hypointense liver parenchyma. Reports on the radiographic features of intrahepatic splenosis are rare, and a combination of the findings of CT, MRI (including SPIO injection), and angiography might lead to the diagnosis of splenosis.
Insights
Intrahepatic splenosis, a rare condition, can mimic liver hemangioma on imaging. Advanced MRI with superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) aids in diagnosing this splenic tissue in the liver.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intrahepatic splenosis is a rare condition where splenic tissue is found within the liver.
- It can present as an incidental finding or mimic other liver lesions, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old man presented with a liver lesion in the right lobe.
- Dynamic CT and MRI revealed a lesion similar to hemangioma.
- T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) after superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) injection showed signal loss but maintained slight hyperintensity relative to the liver parenchyma.
Findings:
- The observed lesion was consistent with normal splenic tissue, despite initial imaging similarities to hemangioma.
- Superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) enhanced MRI demonstrated characteristic signal behavior of splenic tissue within the liver.
- Radiographic features of intrahepatic splenosis are infrequently reported in medical literature.
Implications:
- A comprehensive diagnostic approach combining CT, MRI (including SPIO injection), and potentially angiography is crucial for accurate diagnosis of intrahepatic splenosis.
- Recognizing the imaging patterns of intrahepatic splenosis can prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive procedures.
- This case highlights the utility of advanced MRI techniques in characterizing rare liver lesions.
