Solitary necrotic nodules of the liver simulating hepatic metastases

Four cases are described in which solitary nodules were identified on the anterior aspect of the liver. These had characteristic histological appearances. Each had a necrotic core surrounded by a dense collar of hyalinised collagen, incorporating elastic fibres. While three of our patients had carcinoma elsewhere none had evidence of tumour in the liver. We do not believe that these lesions represent hepatic metastases. We suggest that they may be of traumatic aetiology or a sequel of previous infection.