Benign liver nodules presenting as apparent hepatic metastases: a report of 5 cases

Five cases are described in which hepatic nodules discovered as an incidental finding at laparotomy performed for other reasons were thought to be metastatic tumour. In each case histology and clinical course proved this assumption to be incorrect. It is emphasized that biopsy is mandatory in such circumstances to establish the diagnosis. Where the nature of the hepatic lesion might affect the choice of operative procedure frozen section examination should be performed at the time of surgery. Bacteriological culture may also be helpful.