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Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Biliary Drainage: Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Hepaticogastrostomy in Malignant Biliary Obstruction
Published on: March 25, 2022
Biliary hamartoma: a report of two cases
Anass Haloui1, Nassira Kariche1, Asmae Aissaoui1
1Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Oujda, Mohammed First University, Oujda, Morocco.
Abstract:
Biliary hamartoma, also known as biliary micro hamartoma or Von Meyenburg complex, is a rare benign liver lesion, thought to be a ductal plate malformation rather than a true neoplasm. It is often seen incidentally on imagery or surgery as multiple small subcapsular nodules, scattered throughout the liver, making it likely to be mistaken for metastatic nodules. The histological presentation can also be deceptive, leading to the misdiagnosis of an adenocarcinoma of hepato-biliary differentiation or a metastasis. We hereby present two cases of biliary hamartoma, found incidentally on imagery and surgery, the first one in a 94-year-old woman, and the second in a 48-year-old man, which was initially misdiagnosed as an adenocarcinoma, along with a discussion of key clinical and pathological findings to help avoid this diagnostic pitfall.
Insights
Biliary hamartoma, a benign liver lesion, is often mistaken for cancer due to its appearance. Recognizing key features helps avoid misdiagnosis of this ductal plate malformation.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Biliary hamartoma (Von Meyenburg complex) is a rare, benign liver lesion.
- It is considered a ductal plate malformation, not a true neoplasm.
- Often presents as multiple, small, subcapsular liver nodules.
Observation:
- Lesions are frequently discovered incidentally during imaging or surgery.
- The appearance can mimic metastatic liver nodules.
- Histological features may also be misleading.
Findings:
- Two cases are presented: a 94-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man.
- Both cases involved incidental findings during imaging and surgery.
- One case was initially misdiagnosed as adenocarcinoma.
Implications:
- Accurate differentiation from malignant lesions is crucial.
- Understanding clinical and pathological findings aids in correct diagnosis.
- Avoids unnecessary treatment for a benign condition.
