Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma: a need for radical resection
Spiros G Delis1, Zisis Touloumis, Andreas Bakoyiannis
1Liver Surgical Unit, Agia Olga Hospital, Athens, Greece. sgdelis55@yahoo.gr
European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|December 20, 2007
Summary
Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC) is a rare liver tumor with high recurrence and malignant potential. Aggressive surgical resection is recommended over fenestration to prevent recurrence and progression to cystadenocarcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary surgery
- Surgical oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC) is a rare liver neoplasm with significant malignant potential and a high recurrence rate.
- IBC can progress to intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma (IBCa), necessitating timely and appropriate management.
Observation:
- Four female patients (median age 51 years) with IBC underwent liver resections (three left, one right hepatectomy).
- Two cases were diagnosed preoperatively via imaging and tumor markers; two were initially misdiagnosed as simple cysts and recurred after laparoscopic fenestration.
Findings:
- All pathology reports confirmed liver cystadenomas.
- Postoperative recovery was uneventful with a median hospital stay of 8 days.
- Median follow-up of 18 months showed no evidence of recurrence in all patients.
Implications:
- IBC is frequently misdiagnosed as other hepatic cystic lesions, highlighting the need for accurate preoperative assessment.
- Aggressive surgical management, such as liver resection, is crucial for managing IBC due to its malignant potential and high recurrence rates after less invasive procedures like fenestration.
