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Riedel's Lobe and Beaver Tail Variant: A Cadaveric Case Report
Femina Sam1, Jenny Jacob1, Suganthy Rabi1
1Anatomy, Christian Medical College, Vellore, IND.
Cureus
|March 18, 2024
Summary
This study reports two cases of rare liver variations in female cadavers: Riedel's lobe and the beaver tail variant. These anatomical anomalies can mimic abdominal masses and pose risks during surgery.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical variations
- Hepatic morphology
- Surgical anatomy
Background:
- Accessory liver lobes are rare, occurring in less than 1% of the population.
- Riedel's lobe (right lobe variant) and beaver tail variant (left lobe variant) are uncommon anatomical variations.
- These variations are reportedly more prevalent in females.
Observation:
- Two female cadavers presented with coexisting liver lobe variations.
- Case 1: A 45-year-old female exhibited Riedel's lobe and a beaver tail variant. Riedel's lobe was a tongue-like projection from the right liver margin, partially separated by a deep fissure. The left lobe was elongated, encircled the spleen, and showed a splenic impression.
- Case 2: An 85-year-old female displayed a beaver tail variant where the left lobe crossed the midline, situated superior to the spleen.
Findings:
- Riedel's lobe in Case 1 was drained by the middle hepatic vein (MHV) and supplied by the right portal vein (RPV).
- The beaver tail variant in Case 2 was drained by the left hepatic vein (LHV) and supplied by the left portal vein (LPV).
- The left lobe variation in Case 1 was associated with splenomegaly.
Implications:
- Liver lobe variations like Riedel's lobe and beaver tail variant can be mistaken for abdominal masses.
- These anatomical anomalies may complicate surgical procedures, particularly laparoscopic interventions.
- Awareness of these variations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and safe surgical practice.
