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Heterotopic Hepatic Tissue in the Placenta: A Case Report
Niloufar Pourfarrokh1, Chrystalle Katte Carreon2,3, Riyam Zreik1
1Department of Pathology, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Temple, Temple, TX, USA.
International Journal of Surgical Pathology
|August 5, 2022
Summary
Heterotopic hepatic tissue in the placenta or umbilical cord is a rare finding. This case report details liver tissue found within a chorionic stem villus, offering insights into its morphology and immunohistochemistry.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive medicine
- Developmental biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Heterotopic hepatic tissue, or liver tissue found outside the liver, in the placenta or umbilical cord is an exceptionally rare occurrence.
- The precise embryological mechanisms leading to this condition remain incompletely understood, though theories suggest a link to yolk sac development.
Observation:
- This study presents a unique case of heterotopic liver tissue identified within a chorionic stem villus.
- The affected neonate was 37 weeks gestational age and exhibited signs of intrauterine growth restriction.
Findings:
- Detailed morphological examination of the heterotopic hepatic tissue was performed.
- Immunohistochemistry workup was conducted to characterize the cellular components and origin of the ectopic liver tissue.
Implications:
- This case contributes to the limited existing literature on placental and umbilical cord heterotopic hepatic tissue.
- Understanding the morphology and immunohistochemistry of such rare findings can aid in future diagnoses and potentially elucidate developmental pathways.
