Biliary inflammatory pseudotumor: imaging features in seven patients

Area of Science:

• Hepatobiliary Medicine
• Surgical Pathology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Hepatic biliary pseudotumor is a rare, benign liver neoplasm.
• Its clinical and imaging characteristics are poorly understood.
• Diagnosis often follows extensive surgical procedures.

Observation:

• This report details the clinical and imaging features of seven hepatic biliary pseudotumor cases.
• Painless obstructive jaundice is a common presenting symptom.
• Imaging findings are often indistinguishable from cholangiocarcinoma.

Findings:

• Hepatic biliary pseudotumor can mimic malignant tumors.
• Secondary clinical signs may suggest an inflammatory process.
• The tumor's appearance on imaging is similar to cholangiocarcinoma.

Implications:

• Accurate differentiation of hepatic biliary pseudotumor from malignancy is crucial for appropriate patient management.
• Early recognition may prevent unnecessary aggressive surgical interventions.
• Further research is needed to improve diagnostic strategies for this rare entity.