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Polycystic liver disease with complications: fenestration by laparoscopic approach
Aim:
Isolated polycystic liver disease is a rare congenital cystic liver disease with autosomal dominant transmission. Its main feature is the presence of a large number of cysts of different sizes in the hepatic parenchyma, which have a benign evolution.
Method:
We present the case of an 80 years old male patient with massive polycystic liver disease, diagnosed three years ago by ultrasound examination and abdominal computed tomography scan. The evolution of the disease had been complicated by compressive symptoms, caused by the large dimensions of the cysts. The patient presented with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and lost weight. Cyst fenestration through laparoscopic approach resolved the symptoms.
Results:
The patient was mobilized on the day of the surgery, and was discharged on the 9th postoperative day, after drainage tube removal.
Conclusions:
Isolated polycystic liver disease is rare. Surgical treatment is indicated only if complications occur. The laparoscopic approach is an alternate treatment method, if needed. The patients benefit from the advantages of minimally invasive surgery.
Insights
Isolated polycystic liver disease, a rare congenital condition, can cause compressive symptoms. Laparoscopic cyst fenestration effectively resolved symptoms in an elderly patient, offering a minimally invasive surgical option.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Genetics
Background:
- Isolated polycystic liver disease (PCLD) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by numerous hepatic cysts.
- It typically follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and has a generally benign clinical course.
Observation:
- A case study of an 80-year-old male with massive PCLD diagnosed via ultrasound and CT scan.
- The patient experienced significant compressive symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss due to large cyst dimensions.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic cyst fenestration was performed to alleviate the patient's symptoms.
- The patient showed positive outcomes, with symptom resolution and early mobilization post-surgery.
Implications:
- Surgical intervention for PCLD is reserved for cases with complications.
- Laparoscopic fenestration presents a viable, minimally invasive surgical approach for symptomatic PCLD.
- Minimally invasive surgery offers significant benefits for patients undergoing treatment for PCLD.
