RECURRENT SEPSIS IN A PATIENT WITH BILIARY HAMARTOMAS

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Pathology
• Genetics

Background:

• Biliary hamartomas (von Meyenburg complexes, VMCs) are benign liver lesions arising from ductal plate malformations.
• VMCs are associated with ciliopathies and their malignant potential is debated.
• Typically asymptomatic, VMCs are often incidental findings on imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight an unusual presentation of biliary hamartomas as a sanctuary for recurrent sepsis.
• To emphasize the importance of considering VMCs in cases of unexplained recurrent infections.

Main Methods:

• Case report detailing a patient with recurrent sepsis of unidentified origin.
• Investigation revealed biliary hamartomas as the source of persistent infection.

Main Results:

• Biliary hamartomas served as a reservoir for a pathogenic agent, leading to recurrent sepsis.
• This case demonstrates an atypical clinical manifestation of VMCs.

Conclusions:

• Hepatobiliary sepsis is an uncommon but significant clinical presentation of biliary hamartomas.
• Clinicians must recognize the infectious potential of these ductal abnormalities.
• Early identification of this atypical, life-threatening condition is vital for patient outcomes.