Benign liver tumors: presenting profiles and treatment

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Oncology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Oral contraceptives are widely used by women of reproductive age.
• Hormonal influences are implicated in the development of certain benign hepatic lesions.
• Understanding the relationship between oral contraceptives and liver tumors is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• Three distinct cases of benign hepatic cell tumors linked to oral contraceptive use are presented.
• Clinical presentations varied, including emergency bleeding requiring resection, non-resectable masses responding to drug cessation, and asymptomatic pedunculated tumors amenable to resection.
• These cases highlight the diverse clinical behaviors of oral contraceptive-associated liver tumors.

Findings:

• Benign liver tumors associated with oral contraceptives can present with bleeding, acute symptoms, or as asymptomatic masses.
• Discontinuation of oral contraceptives can lead to tumor involution in some cases.
• Surgical resection is a viable option for resectable tumors, while non-resectable or involuting tumors may be managed conservatively.

Implications:

• The diagnosis and treatment of benign liver tumors require consideration of oral contraceptive use.
• Less invasive treatment options, including hormonal therapy and hepatic artery embolization, may be effective alternatives to resection.
• Further research into the natural history and optimal management of these tumors is warranted.