Biliary Cystadenoma and Other Complicated Cystic Lesions of The Liver: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges

Resection of Biliary Cystadenoma in a Pregnant Woman: A Case Report With Five Years of Follow-Up

Biliary cystadenomas (BCAs), rare cystic tumors occurring in the biliary system, account for fewer than 5% of cystic lesions in the liver. This case details successful resection in a 29-year-old pregnant woman at seven weeks gestation. Urgent left hemihepatectomy and cholecystectomy removed a mucinous hepatobiliary cystadenoma. Postoperatively, a healthy newborn was delivered by cesarean section. Five-year follow-up showed no recurrence. BCAs present diagnostic challenges due to nonspecific symptoms, and surgical intervention, preferably complete resection, is recommended for potential malignancy, after weighing benefits against complications in critical hepatic vessel lesions.

Successful Laparoscopic Resection of Biliary Cystadenoma: A Case Report

Biliary cystadenomas are rare hepatic lesions originating from the biliary epithelium. We present the case of a 32-year-old female who presented with persistent right upper quadrant abdominal pain, prompting a thorough investigation. Mildly elevated liver enzymes were noted on laboratory testing. Imaging studies, including a contrast-enhanced CT scan, revealed a 14 cm multiloculated cystic lesion in the right lobe of the liver. A biliary cystadenoma was confirmed, leading to a collaborative decision for laparoscopic resection. Intraoperative findings and histopathological examination supported the diagnosis, and the patient had an uneventful recovery postoperatively. This case report underscores the clinical complexity of biliary cystadenomas and highlights the successful multidisciplinary management of a young patient through laparoscopic resection. The case contributes valuable insights into the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with these uncommon hepatic lesions.

Management of Mucinous Cystic Neoplasms of the Liver

BACKGROUND

Mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver (MCN-L) including biliary cystadenomas (BCA) and biliary cystadenocarcinomas (BCAC) are rare cystic lesions that comprise less than 5% of all liver cysts and affect only a small subset of individuals. We herein review the current evidence regarding the clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, tumor markers, pathological findings, clinical management, and prognosis of MCN-L.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was performed using MEDLINE/Pubmed and Web of Science databases. In PubMed, the terms "biliary cystadenoma," "biliary cystadenocarcinoma," and "non parasitic hepatic cysts" were queried to identify the most recent data on MCN-L.

RESULTS

US imaging, CT, and MRI, as well as consideration of clinicopathological features, are required to appropriately characterize and diagnose hepatic cystic tumors. BCA are premalignant lesions and cannot be reliably differentiated from BCAC based on imaging alone. As such, both types of lesions should be treated with margin-negative surgical resection. Following surgical resection, recurrence is fairly low among patients with BCA and BCAC. Despite having worse long-term outcomes than BCA, the prognosis following surgical resection of BCAC still remains more favorable than other primary malignant liver tumors.

CONCLUSION

MCN-L are rare cystic liver tumors that include BCA and BCAC, which can be difficult to differentiate based on imaging alone. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of management for MCN-L with recurrence being generally uncommon. Future multi-institutional studies are still required to better understand the biology behind BCA and BCAC to improve the care of patients with MCN-L.

Clinicopathological features and management of biliary cystic tumors of the liver: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Biliary cystic neoplasms (BCNs) of the liver are rare pathologies encountered in hepatobiliary surgeries. Till now, there is a lack of definitive criteria used to differentiate biliary cystadenoma (BCA) from biliary cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC).

METHODS

In the period between 2005 and 2018, the data of consecutive patients diagnosed with BCA and BCAC were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 62 patients underwent surgical management for BCNs. BCA was diagnosed in 50 patients while 12 patients had BCAC. Old age, male gender, smoking, and abdominal pain were strongly associated with BCAC. Left lobe location, small size, with the presence of mural nodule, and solid component were significantly noticed with BCAC. A novel pre-operative score was developed to predict the susceptibility for BCAC and help us to identify the optimal surgical strategy. Blood loss, operative time, and complications were comparable between the two study groups.

CONCLUSION

Mural nodules or solid components are suggestive of BCAC. Complete surgical resection of cystic tumors of the liver is mandatory due to malignant potential of the lesion and for prolonged survival.

Hepatobiliary mucinous cystic neoplasms and mimics

This review will provide an overview of hepatobiliary mucinous cystic neoplasms and their mimics such as complex appearing benign cysts, intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile ducts, choledochal cysts, infectious cysts, and other cystic neoplasms. Preoperative imaging, particularly abdominal MRI with MRCP, plays a key role in differentiating these entities which differ widely in management. Familiarity with the differentiating imaging features of mucinous cystic neoplasms and their mimics allows radiologists to provide management-guiding reports.

Cistoadenoma mucinoso biliar: un reto diagnóstico

Introducción. El cistoadenoma mucinoso biliar es una neoplasia rara con alta probabilidad de malignidad. Su diagnóstico es un reto ya que se asemeja a otras masas benignas que pueden encontrarse en el hígado. Caso clínico. Mujer de 21 años con sensación de masa en hipocondrio derecho, a quien se le realizan marcadores tumorales y estudios de imágenes concluyendo que se trataba de un cistadenoma mucinoso biliar. Resultado. Se presenta el caso de una paciente con cistoadenoma mucinoso biliar, diagnosticada y tratada exitosamente con cirugía. Conclusión. El diagnóstico de cistoadenoma mucinoso biliar se confirma mediante marcadores tumorales y estudios radiológicos, y su tratamiento es quirúrgico debido al riesgo de malignidad.

Cystadenocarcinoma of the gallbladder: A case report

Introduction and importance

Cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the biliary duct remain a rare diagnosis, the localization is intrahepatic in 97% of the cases and extrahepatic in 3%of them [1]. Cystadenocarcinoma of the gallbladder is the rarest localization, it's usually diagnosed late because of the poor symptoms and the nonspecific lesions in the different imaging.Only hundreds of cases have been reported for cystadenocarcinoma of the gallbladder.This case report has been reported in line with the SCARE Criteria.

Case presentation

We present a 70-year-old woman, with no family or personal history, who was complaining of pain in the right hypochondrium and an altered general well-being, with no other clinical abnormalities.The imaging including abdominal sonography, CT scan, and MRI concluded at a budding lesion formed in the gallbladder wall which measured 65 × 15mm.Cancer of the gallbladder was suspected and the patient was operated. A resection of segment s4b and 5 of the liver was performed with lymphadenectomy. The post-operative clinical course was uneventful.The diagnosis of cystadenocarcinoma of the gallbladder was confirmed on an anatomopathological exam of the specimen.

Conclusion

Cystadenocarcinoma is a rare diagnosis.There are no specific symptoms or lesions at the imaging.The confirmation is obtained on an anatomopathological study of the specimen.

EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of cystic liver diseases

The advent of enhanced radiological imaging techniques has facilitated the diagnosis of cystic liver lesions. Concomitantly, the evidence base supporting the management of these diseases has matured over the last decades. As a result, comprehensive clinical guidance on the subject matter is warranted. These Clinical Practice Guidelines cover the diagnosis and management of hepatic cysts, mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver, biliary hamartomas, polycystic liver disease, Caroli disease, Caroli syndrome, biliary hamartomas and peribiliary cysts. On the basis of in-depth review of the relevant literature we provide recommendations to navigate clinical dilemmas followed by supporting text. The recommendations are graded according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine system and categorised as 'weak' or 'strong'. We aim to provide the best available evidence to aid the clinical decision-making process in the management of patients with cystic liver disease.

A case of hilar biliary cystadenoma with elevated IgG4 levels

Cholangiocytic adenoma in the hilar bile duct is rare, and elevated IgG4 at the same time is extremely rare. This situation has not been reported in the literature. Nonetheless, the current case involved hilar biliary cystadenoma with elevated IgG4 levels. A 66-year-old man presented at this hospital with dark tea-colored urine. Preoperative imaging studies suggested hilar cholangiocarcinoma. This case demonstrates the difficulty of preoperative diagnosis of benign hilar lesions and the rarity of two combined benign lesions. A point of contention is whether this case should be treated with surgery or hormone therapy.

Complete resection for a giant recurrent biliary cystadenoma: A surgical case report and review of literature

Background

Biliary cystadenoma is a rare cystic neoplasm of the liver. The clinical signs and symptoms are nonspecific, and treatment strategy is variable.

Case presentation

In this study, we presented a case of a 32-year-old female with multilocular biliary cystadenoma. The patient underwent partial removal of the hepatic cyst two times in two different hospitals for two years and that the histopathological results were biliary cystic adenoma but was successfully treated by radical resection after the second recurrence. The patient underwent a J-shaped laparotomy. The giant cystic mass measuring 20 cm × 15 cm was below the position of the right anterior segment. This lesion pushed the liver parenchyma to both sides and compressed the hepatic hilum, causing dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts. The patient underwent complete resection of cystic mass. During the dissection, a 0.5mm-diameter fistula of left hepatic duct with the cyst was found. It was sutured using absorbable polydioxanone (PDS 6.0) and the cystic duct tube (C tube) (6 Fr) was inserted via the cystic duct into the left hepatic duct due to drain the bile fluid.

Discussion

A biliary cystadenoma (BCA) primary origin is occasionally rare. Although imaging modalities such as ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging could be suggestive, however, the definitive diagnosis is depended on the histological examination. Despite of being a benign tumor, it has a high risk of recurrence after conservative treatment. The potential risk for malignant is also present. Therefore, complete resection of the tumors is the treatment of choice.

Conclusion

We herein present a report of a rare case with had a giant biliary cystadenoma (BCA) primary origin. This report aims to improve the understanding of the diagnosis and management of this uncommon disease.

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A biliary cystadenoma (BCA) primary origin is occasionally rare, the clinical manifestations are variable and non-specific.

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BCA should be suspected when there is a multilocular and thick-walled cystic on liver imaging modalities.

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Histological examination and immunohistochemistry staining are considered as the gold standard.

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Radical surgery (enucleation or liver resection) must be still the most effective and major treatment approach.

Sequential thermal ablation in combination with sclerotherapy using lauromacrogol as a successful translative therapy for an unresectable huge biliary cystadenocarcinoma: The first experience assisted by contrast-enhanced ultrasound

Biliary cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC) is an extremely rare intrahepatic cystic tumor. Patients usually present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, abdominal distention, and abdominal mass. This tumor occurs most commonly in the left hemiliver and is thought to mainly develop from a benign biliary cystadenoma (BCA). At present, the disease is mainly diagnosed by ultrasound, CT, MR, and other imaging methods, and the main treatment is radical surgical resection. We reported a 75-year-old female with an unresectable huge BCAC (i.e., 161×145×122 mm in three orthogonal directions) and poor general condition (40 in Karnofsky Performance Status, KPS) who received sequential thermal ablation (i.e., cryoablation and microwave ablation) in combination with sclerotherapy using lauromacrogol. The diagnosis of intrahepatic BCAC was confirmed pathologically. Preablation grayscale US showed the BCAC with a clear boundary, regular shape, and cystic-solid mixed echogenicity, which appeared as a huge multilocular cystic lesions with thick internal sepatations. Preablation contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) showed honeycomb-like hyper-enhancement of the thick internal sepatations and cystic wall in the arterial and portal phase, and sustained enhancement of the thick internal sepatations and cystic wall in the late phase. 6-month postablation CEUS showed non-enhancement in most parts of the lesion in the arterial phase and 6-month postablation MRI showed the volume reduction ratio (VRR) was about 70%. The abdominal pain and abdominal distension were relieved remarkably, and her quality of life was greatly improved (70 in KPS). In conclusion, sequential thermal ablation in combination with sclerotherapy provides a successful translative therapy for this unresectable huge BCAC with a poor general condition, which makes subsequent curative surgery or ablation possible.

OUP accepted manuscript

Mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver are uncommon cystic lesions of the liver, most commonly seen in women in the fifth decade of life. We present a case of a 16-year-old girl with an incidentally discovered abdominal mass while undergoing a tonsillectomy. Investigation revealed a multiloculated, septated 17 × 17 × 11 cm cystic lesion arising from the left lobe of the liver, with displacement of the remaining upper abdominal viscera. Serum Ca19.9 was significantly elevated at 2256 U/ml (range 0–37), but other bloods including liver function tests, alphafoetoprotein and carcinoembryonic antigen were within normal limits. We proceeded to open formal left hemi-hepatectomy. Histology was consistent with a diagnosis of mucinous cystic neoplasm with low-grade intra-epithelial neoplasia.

Radiologic Reporting of Simple Hepatic Cyst Versus Biliary Cystadenoma May Lead to Unnecessary Surgery

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Simple liver cyst (SHC) is a benign condition with no malignant potential. They are typically discovered incidentally due to the increased use of abdominal imaging, but some patients may present with abdominal pain. A radiologist's differential diagnosis in cases of SHC will often include "rule out biliary cystadenoma." Under these circumstances, patients and surgeons are more likely to pursue surgical options even in asymptomatic cases. The aim of this study is to conduct a retrospective analysis of presentation, radiologic reporting, management plan, and histopathology of patients referred to a tertiary hospital in order to determine the correlation between radiology and histology.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical, radiological, and histopathological data of 20 patients operated for a diagnosis of a cystic lesion in the liver.

RESULT

The CT/MRI of 6 (30%) patients was reported as a biliary cystadenoma, 13 (65%) were reported as a simple hepatic cyst and 1 patient (5%) had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with the additional diagnosis of multiple hepatic cysts. The lesion reported as HCC on the scan was separate from the cystic lesions. The modality of imaging for these cysts was evenly split, 50% of patients had a CT scan, and 50% had an MRI performed. All imaging studies were interpreted by an attending radiologist and most of them were discussed in multidisciplinary meetings. Nineteen patients (95%) had an intraoperative diagnosis of a simple liver cyst based on its visual appearance and clear fluid within the cyst. These patients underwent cyst wall fenestration and de-roofing with the cyst wall sent for histopathology. One patient (5%) with HCC underwent a non-anatomical liver resection. Histopathology was conclusive for a benign hepatic cystic lesion from the cyst wall biopsy. All 20 patients in this study underwent surgery, either due to symptoms or due to radiologic diagnosis of BCA. Four of the 20 cases (20%) were asymptomatic and out of these four cases, 3 (75%) were diagnosed as cystadenoma on the preoperative imaging studies. All 19 cases were diagnosed as a simple liver cyst on pathology.

CONCLUSION

In summary, there is a growing trend of "ruling-out the diagnosis of biliary cystadenoma" in patients who present with liver cysts. Patients are appropriately more anxious after this preoperative diagnosis and the treating surgeons have medico-legal concerns regarding conservative management in asymptomatic patients diagnosed as BCA. This single center experience draws attention to the radiology criteria utilized for diagnosing a biliary cystadenoma and suggests that it is time to revisit the imaging interpretation and differential diagnosis.

Enucleation of Biliary Cystadenomas: a Review

BACKGROUND

Biliary cystadenomas are very rare benign tumors which can transform into cystadenocarcinomas. The largest case series reported on 221 cases over 30 years from 10 HPB centers, i.e., about 7 cases per center per decade. The recommended treatment is liver resection. Enucleation of biliary cystadenomas has been done rarely. The purpose of the study was to determine the outcome of enucleation of these cysts, particularly the mortality rate and the recurrence rate.

METHODS

A keyword search was done using OVID followed by a search of the bibliography of papers describing the enucleation of biliary cystadenomas. Of 45 articles obtained, 25 were retained. The main reasons for exclusion were non-English language and review articles.

RESULTS

One hundred three patients in the 25 studies were treated with enucleation. Thirteen studies described prior treatments that had failed with resulting recurrence requiring re-treatment. The main indication for enucleation was large central cysts for which liver resection would be high risk. There were no postoperative deaths in patients treated by enucleation. Thirteen studies provided long-term follow-up in 40 patients, a substantial number given the rarity of the tumor. There were no recurrences or transformations to malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Enucleation seems to represent a reasonable treatment technique for BCA, especially when a large cystic lesion is located centrally and/or would require a large liver resection with significant loss of parenchyma.

Rare monolocular intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC) is a rare benign hepatic tumor that is often misdiagnosed as other hepatic cystic diseases. Therefore, imaging examinations are required for preoperative diagnosis. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has gained increasing popularity as an emerging imaging modality and it is considered the primary method for screening IBC because of its specificity of performance. We describe an unusual case of monolocular IBC and emphasize the performance of CEUS.

CASE SUMMARY

A 45-year-old man complained of epigastric pain lasting 1 wk. He had no medical history of hepatitis, liver cirrhosis or parasitization. Physical examination revealed a mass of approximately 6 cm in size in the upper abdomen below the subxiphoid process. Tumor marker tests found elevated CA19-9 levels (119.3 U/mL), but other laboratory tests were unremarkable. Ultrasound and computerized tomography revealed a round thick-walled mass measuring 83 mm × 68 mm located in the left lateral lobe of the liver that lacked internal septations and manifested as a monolocular cystic structure. CEUS demonstrated that in the arterial phase, the anechoic area manifested as a peripheral ring with homogeneous enhancement. The central part presented with no enhancement. During the portal phase, the enhanced portion began to subside but was still above the surrounding liver tissue. The patient underwent left partial liver lobectomy and recovered well without tumor recurrence or metastasis. Eventually, the results of pathological examination confirmed IBC.

CONCLUSION

A few IBC cases present with monolocular characteristics, and the lack of intracystic septa in imaging performance cannot exclude IBC.

CT and MRI features differentiating mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver from pathologically simple cysts

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine if CT and MRI features can accurately differentiate mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs) from simple liver cysts and to compare accuracy of CT and MRI in detecting these features.

METHODS

Eighty-four surgically treated lesions with pre-operative CT or MRI were evaluated by two abdominal radiologists for upstream biliary dilatation, perfusional change, internal hemorrhage, thin septations, thick septations/nodularity, lobar location, and number of coexistent liver cysts. Odds ratios, sensitivities, specificities, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for association of each feature with MCNs.

RESULTS

Of 84 liver lesions, 13 (15%) were MCNs, all in women, and 71 (85%) were simple cysts, in 59 women and 12 men. Thick septations/nodularity, upstream biliary dilation, thin septations, internal hemorrhage, perfusional change, and fewer than 3 coexistent liver cysts were more frequent in MCNs than in simple cysts. The combination of thick septations/nodularity and at least one additional associated feature showed high specificity for MCNs (94-98%). MRI detected significant associations of biliary dilation, thin septations, and hemorrhage/debris with MCNs which CT did not.

CONCLUSION

Surgically treated MCNs of the liver with preoperative imaging occurred at our institution only in women. Thick septations or nodularity, biliary dilation, thin septations, internal hemorrhage or debris, perfusional change, and fewer than 3 coexistent liver cysts are features that help differentiate MCNs from simple cysts. MRI has advantages over CT in detecting these features.

Cystic biliary tumors of the liver: diagnostic criteria and common pitfalls

With major advancements and frequent use of abdominal imaging techniques, hepatic cysts are increasingly encountered in clinical practice. Although the majority of cysts are benign, a small subset represents neoplastic precursors to cholangiocarcinoma. These cystic precursors include intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct (IPNB) and mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver (MCN-L), and bear striking pathologic resemblance to corresponding cystic neoplastic precursors within the pancreas. This review examines the salient clinical, gross, microscopic and molecular features of IPNBs and MCN-Ls, and, in particular, provides histopathologic comparison to their pancreatic counterparts. Considering these neoplasms may be diagnostically challenging, we also discuss other hepatic lesions within the differential diagnosis, and the potential for molecular methods to improve their preoperative evaluation and the early detection of cholangiocarcinoma.

Hepatic Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm Versus Simple Biliary Cyst: Assessment of Distinguishing Imaging Features Using CT and MRI

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of our study was to identify the imaging features that differentiate a hepatic mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) from a simple biliary cyst. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Surgically resected hepatic MCNs and simple biliary cysts over a 20-year period (October 29, 1997-January 23, 2018) with preoperative CT, MRI, or both were retrospectively identified. Included cases underwent histopathologic confirmation of diagnosis based on the 2010 World Health Organization criteria and blinded imaging review. Various imaging features, including cyst shape and septal enhancement, were assessed for performance. For septate cysts, the relationship of the septation to the cyst wall-that is, arising from the wall without an indentation versus arising from an external macrolobulation-was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed for the imaging features with the chi-square test. RESULTS. The study group comprised 22 hepatic MCNs and 56 simple biliary cysts. A unilocular hepatic cystic lesion was highly predictive of a simple biliary cyst (positive predictive value = 95.2%). The imaging feature of septations arising only from macro-lobulations was 100% specific for a simple biliary cyst on CT (p = 0.001). The presence of septations arising from the cyst wall without indentation was 100% sensitive for hepatic MCN but was only 56.3% specific on CT. Septal enhancement reached 100% sensitivity for hepatic MCN on MRI (p = 0.018). CONCLUSION. The presence of septations, relationship of the septations to the cyst wall, and septal enhancement were sensitive imaging features in the detection of hepatic MCN. The imaging feature of septations arising only from macrolobulations in the cyst wall was specific for simple biliary cysts on CT and helped differentiate simple biliary cysts from hepatic MCNs.

Atypic large hepatic cyst with persistent elevated CA19.9 serum value: utility of intracystic CA72.4 dosage for a mini-invasive management

Simple hepatic cysts are very common, but may be difficult to differentiate from a biliary cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma. Because the surgical treatment if needed, such as a hepatic fenestration or resection, depends on the diagnosis, the assay of intracystic tumor markers is useful.We report the case of a 67-year-old woman with a large hepatic cyst responsible of pain and inflammation. The combination of imaging findings, serum, and intracystic fluid tumor markers [CA72.4 (carbohydrate hydrogen)] permitted to diagnose a simple hepatic cyst despite an unusual persistent elevated serum CA19.9 level. A laparoscopic cyst fenestration was proposed with an uneventful postoperative course. The pathological findings showed a simple hepatic cyst.In case of hepatic cysts, radiological findings can discriminate between benign and (pre)malignant lesions, but in case of doubtful diagnosis, the serum and intracystic tumor markers can be helpful.The use of serum or intracystic tumor marker allows to choose the correct therapeutic strategy and to use mini-invasive approach when feasible.

Mucin-producing hepatic cystic neoplasms: an uncommon but challenging disease often misdiagnosed and mismanaged

Background: Mucin-producing hepatic cystic neoplasms (MHCN) are uncommon and potentially malignant.Methods: Nine MHCN were encountered in our centre for over 32 years. Patients' clinical, biological, radiological and pathological features were reviewed. Lesions were classified into Mucinous Cystic Neoplasms (MCN) and Intraductal Papillary Neoplasms of the Bile duct (IPNB) (WHO 2010 classification).Results: Five MCN and 4 IPNB were reviewed. Serum and intracystic tumour markers were insufficient to diagnose malignancy. Complications were encountered in five out of nine patients (56%), mean symptom duration was 26 months (range: 1-132). Three patients were mismanaged pre-referral. Radiological features enabled preoperative diagnosis in eight out of nine patients (89%). Greater tumour size, unilocular lesion and mural nodularity indicated malignancy. Radical tumour excision was achieved in eight patients. One IPNB patient was misdiagnosed and underwent unroofing. For 103 months median follow-up, five out of six patients with benign tumours were alive and disease-free, whereas the misdiagnosed IPNB recurred with fatal malignant transformation seven years later. Among the three patients with malignancies (median follow-up: 77 months), two IPNB died, one from cancer recurrence and one from unrelated causes, whereas the malignant MCN was alive and disease-free.Conclusions: Appropriate MHCN diagnosis is crucial, yet it is often misdiagnosed and mismanaged. The prognosis after complete excision is favourable.

Recurrent Giant Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma: Case Report and Review of Literature

Biliary cystadenoma is a very rare cystic neoplasm of the liver that usually occurs almost exclusively in middle-aged women. These are slowly progressive tumours and cannot be safely differentiated from cystadenocarcinomas on preoperative imaging and hence should always be considered for resection. Historically these cystic tumors have been treated by a variety of techniques including aspiration, fenestration, internal drainage, partial resection resulting in high rates of recurrence. In addition biliary cystadenoma is a premalignant lesion and only surgical excision can differentiate it from its malignant counterpart, biliary cystadenocarcinoma.

The impact of imaging on the surgical management of biliary cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas; a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Biliary Cystadenomas (BCA) are considered to be benign but may transform to Biliary Cystadenocarcinomas (BCAC). The aim of this systematic review was to assess the diagnostic work-up and necessity of complete surgical resection.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was performed in Embase.com, Medline (Ovid), Cochrane Central, Web-of-Science and Google Scholar. Articles reporting on diagnostic work-up or outcome of various treatment strategies were included.

RESULTS

Fifty-one articles with 1218 patients were included: 971 with BCA and 247 with BCAC. Patients with BCA were more often female (91% vs 63.8%, p < 0.001). On radiologic imaging BCAC more often had calcifications (p = 0.008), mural nodules (p < 0.001) and wall enhancement (p < 0.001). Reported treatment strategies were resection, enucleation, or fenestration/marsupialization. Recurrence was reported in 5.4% after resection for BCA and 4.8% after resection for BCAC. Recurrence after fenestration/marsupialization varied from 81.6% to 100% for both BCA as BCAC. Mortality rate was 0 in patients with BCA and 24% in BCAC.

CONCLUSION

Due to the difficulty in accurately diagnosing these biliary cystic lesions and the availability of different surgical approaches, patients with suspected BCA or BCAC should be treated in a center specialized in liver surgery with state-of-the-art imaging and all surgical techniques to prevent mismanagement of this rare disease.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma and Cystadenocarcinoma: A Report of 10 Cases and Review of the Literature

The objective of this study was to present our experience with intrahepatic biliary cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas in 10 patients surgically managed in our department. Intrahepatic biliary cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas are rare cystic tumors that are often misdiagnosed preoperatively as simple cysts or hydatid cysts. They recur after incomplete resection and entail a risk of malignant transformation to cystadenocarcinoma. A retrospective review was conducted of patients with histologically confirmed intrahepatic biliary cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas between August 2004 and February 2013 who were surgically managed in our department. A total of 10 patients, 9 female and 1 male (mean age, 50 years), with cystic liver were reviewed. The size of the cysts ranged between 3.5 and 16 cm (mean, 10.6). Five patients had undergone previous interventions elsewhere and presented with recurrences. Liver resections included 6 hepatectomies, 2 bisegmentectomies, 1 extended right hepatectomy, and 1 enucleation due to the central position and the large size of the lesion. Pathology reports confirmed R0 resections in all cases. All patients were alive after a median follow-up of 6 years (range, 1-10 years), and no recurrence was detected. Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma should be considered in differential diagnosis in patients with liver cystic tumors. Because of the high recurrence rate and difficult accurate preoperative diagnosis, formal liver resection is mandatory. Enucleation with free margins is an option and is indicated where resection is impossible.

Hepatobiliary Cystadenoma and Cystadenocarcinoma: A Single Center Experience

Aims and background

Hepatobiliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma are rare cystic lesions of the liver. The aim of the study was to discuss the clinical features, diagnostic methods and surgical treatment of hepatobiliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma in our hospital.

Methods

Six patients with hepatobiliary cystadenomas and four with hepatobiliary cystadenocarcinomas were evaluated. We collected detailed clinical data, and all patients were followed.

Results

Three patients of the 6 with cystadenomas and 2 patients of the 4 with cystadenocarcinomas had marked elevation of CA19-9 (average, 707.0 U/ml and 1078.5U/ml, respectively). CT scan with contrast revealed typical lesions in all 10 cases, i.e., cyst-occupying lesions with separations in the liver. All patients with hepatobiliary cystadenoma were treated by partial hepatectomy. None of them recurred at a mean follow-up of 40 months. Three patients with hepatobiliary cystadenocarcinoma underwent hepatectomy, without recurrence or metastasis at a mean follow-up of 32 months.

Conclusions

Tumor markers (CA19-9) and imaging findings may be helpful for an early diagnosis. Complete resection is still the best choice. Even for hepatobiliary cystadenocarcinoma, considering the low malignant grade, we suggest that for the best prognosis radical excision should be attempted.

Contrast enhanced ultrasound features of hepatic cystadenoma and hepatic cystadenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Hepatic (biliary) cystic tumor (HBCT) is a rare focal cystic liver lesion, which has been rarely described in the literature. In our current multicenter, retrospective study, we aimed to analyze contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features and its diagnostic performance in histologically proved HBCT.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-three patients with single HBCT were retrospectively analyzed. Histologically, 17 (73.9%) were benign hepatic (biliary) cystadenoma (HBCA), 6 (26.1%) were hepatic (biliary) cystadenocarcinoma (HBCAC). All CEUS examinations were assessed by two independent radiologists in consensus. Criteria of CEUS imaging evaluation included the contrast enhancement pattern of lesion (hypoenhancing, hyperenhancing, isoenhancing in comparison to the surrounding liver parenchyma) during the arterial, portal venous and late phases.

RESULTS

After injection of ultrasound contrast agents, most of the HBCTs (78.3%, 18/23) had typical honeycomb enhancement pattern of the cystic wall, septa or mural nodules. Comparing between HBCA and HBCAC, hyperenhancement of the honeycomb septa during the arterial phase was more common in HBCA (p = .047). However, hypoenhancement during the portal venous and late phases was the characteristic of HBCAC (p = .041).

CONCLUSIONS

The EFSUMB algorithm for CEUS for characterization of solid focal liver lesions is also applicable to HBCT. CEUS evaluation can avoid further diagnostic investigations or invasive biopsy procedure.

[Mucinous cystic liver tumors: diagnosis and surgical treatment]

AIM

To optimize diagnostics and treatment of cystic liver tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The analysis included outcomes of 46 patients with liver cystic tumors.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The use of abdominal Doppler-sonography (37 patients), abdominal contrast-enhanced CT (44 patients) and MRI of abdominal cavity with MR-cholangiography (24 patients) defined radiological semiotics of cystic liver diseases. The most important features of cystic tumors are intraluminal septums with blood flow (82% of patients), solid component (6.8%), daughterly cysts (11.3%), as well as biliary hypertension (39.2% of patients). Research of oncomarkers (CEA, SA 19-9, AFP) in 40 patients showed increased level of SA 19-9 only in case of cystadenocarcinoma and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of biliary type. Benign and malignant cystic tumors had increased contents of oncomarkers in all cases. Surgical treatment was used in 42 patients. Extended liver resections were performed in 10 (23.8%) patients, atypical and anatomical resections (removal of less than 3 segments) - in 31 (73.8%) patients. In one case we applied cryoablation of CA in segment I of the liver in view of invasion into the wall of inferior vena cava and hepatoduodenal ligament. In 2 cases surgery was carried out laparoscopically. Also robot-assisted technique was used in 3 patients. Immunohistochemical study was performed in 22 (44.8%) patients. The diagnosis of CAC and biliary type of IPMN was confirmed in case of high expression of CK7, SK19, MUC1, S100p, SDH2, p53 antibodies. Cystadenomas were associated with moderate expression of ER, PR and p53 antibodies by stroma and CK7, SK19, CDX2, MUC1, S100p antibodies by epithelium.

CONCLUSION

There are considerable difficulties of differential diagnosis of liver cystic tumors. Therefore, the use of single algorithm of diagnostics and treatment is necessary to confirm accurately the diagnosis at the perioperative stage. Cystic tumor is more likely to be assumed in women with solitary cyst in segment IV of liver. If the diagnosis is suspected or confirmed anatomical liver resection with complete tumor removal is necessary to prevent the recurrence.

Rare biliary cystic tumors: a case series of biliary cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinoma

Cystic lesions of the liver are common and a major proportion is formed by parasitic cysts and simple cysts. Biliary cystic tumors (BCTs), namely biliary cystadenoma (BCA) and biliary cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC), are rare tumors which usually arise from the intrahepatic biliary tree. BCAs have malignant potential and are difficult to differentiate from BCAC pre-operatively on radiological imaging. Here we have presented 4 patients with BCTs and reviewed the literature pertaining to them.The data of four patients with BCA/BCAC diagnosed and treated at our institute were retrieved from our database and records were reviewed for age, sex, history, imaging, surgery, pathology and follow-up. Mean age of the patients was 53.5 years (range 30-71 years). Two male and two female patients presented with abdominal pain, of which one male patient had pancreatitis at diagnosis. Characteristic features were seen on pre-operative imaging (cystic lesions with internal septations) and biliary communication was identified in the patient with pancreatitis. Three patients were diagnosed with a BCA on final histology, while one patient had a BCAC. Following surgical resection, all the patients are asymptomatic and disease free with a mean follow-up of 24 months (range 10-40 months). In conclusion, BCTs should be suspected in the presence of a well-encapsulated, cystic hepatic lesion with internal septations. Although pre-operative distinction between BCA and BCAC is difficult, the lesion, whenever possible, should be completely resected as long-term outcomes are good, especially with BCA.

Clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic factors of intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma

Background:

Surgical resection is generally considered the main curative treatment for intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma (IBCA) or suspected IBCAs, but controversy exists regarding the prognosis for IBCAs. This study aimed to describe the clinicopathological characteristics of IBCA and identify prognostic factors that may influence the survival of patients treated with surgical procedures.

Methods:

Thirty-four patients with histologically confirmed IBCA treated between January 2000 and June 2014 were included. The clinical characteristics of patients with IBCA were compared with those of 41 patients with intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC); factors that significant difference were analyzed for prognosis analysis of IBCA using multivariate/univariate Cox proportional hazards regression models. Survival curves were constructed using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log-rank test.

Results:

IBCAs had a strong female predominance, and the most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain or discomfort. Compared with IBCs, IBCAs occurred in older patients, in more male patients, and were associated statistically significant abnormal increase in alanine aminotransferase (P = 0.01) and total bilirubin (P = 0.04). Mural nodules were more frequently seen with IBCAs and may associate with malignancy. It was difficult to differentiate between IBC and IBCA based on laboratory examination and imaging findings. Although complete resection is recommended, enucleation with negative margins also achieved good outcomes. Median overall patient survival was 76.2 months; survival at 1, 3, and 5 years was 88.0%, 68.7%, and 45.8%, respectively. Radical resection and noninvasive tumor type were independent prognostic factors for overall survival.

Conclusions:

It remains difficult to distinguish between cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas based on laboratory examination and image findings. Complete resection is recommended for curative treatment, and patients should be closely followed postoperatively, particularly those with invasive tumors.

Mucinous hepatic cystic neoplasm: an uncommon cystic lesion in the liver

Invasive hepatic mucinous neoplasms, previously referred to as cystoadenomas, are rare tumours of the liver. Many patients are asymptomatic and the lessions are found incidentally. Tha aim of this paper is to present a clinic case about a asymptomatic 78 years-old-man with a cystic neoplasm of the liver, founded incidentanlly and treated by surgery.

The accuracy of pre-operative imaging in the management of hepatic cysts

BACKGROUND

Biliary cystic tumours (BCT) [biliary cystadenoma (BCA) and cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC)] warrant complete resection. Simple liver cysts (SLC) require fenestration when symptomatic. Distinguishing between BCT and atypical SLC with pre-operative imaging is not well studied.

METHODS

All patients undergoing surgery for a pre-operative suspected SLC or BCT between 1992 and 2014 were included. Peri-operative data were retrospectively reviewed. A blind radiological review of pre-operative imaging was performed.

RESULTS

Ninety-four patients underwent fenestration (n = 54) or complete excision (n = 40). Final pathology was SLC (n = 74), BCA (n = 15), BCAC (n = 2) and other primary malignancies (n = 3). A frozen section (FS) was performed in 36 patients, impacting management in 10 (27.8%) by avoiding (n = 1) or mandating a liver resection (n = 9). Frozen section results were always concordant with final pathology. Upon blind review, a solitary lesion, suspicious intracystic component, septation and biliary dilatation were associated with BCT (P < 0.05). Diagnostic sensitivity was high (87.5-100%) but specificity was poor (43.1-53.4%). The diagnostic value of imaging was most accurate when negative for BCT (negative predictive value: 92.5-100%).

CONCLUSION

Radiological assessment of hepatic cysts is relatively inaccurate as SLC frequently present with concerning features. In the absence of a strong suspicion of malignancy, fenestration and FS should be considered prior to a complete resection.

Management of biliary cystic tumors: a multi-institutional analysis of a rare liver tumor

OBJECTIVE

To characterize clinical and radiological features associated with biliary cystic tumors (BCTs) of the liver, and to define recurrence-free and overall survival.

BACKGROUND

Biliary cystadenoma (BCA) and biliary cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC) are rare tumors that arise in the liver.

METHODS

Between 1984 and 2013, 248 patients who underwent surgical resection of BCA or BCAC were identified. Clinical and outcome data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Median total bilirubin, CA19-9, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were 0.6 mg/dL, 15.0 U/mL, and 2.7 ng/mL, respectively. Preoperative imaging included computed tomography only (62.5%), magnetic resonance imaging only (6.9%), or CT + MRI (18.5%). Features on cross-sectional imaging included multiloculation (56.9%), mural nodularity (16.5%), and biliary ductal dilatation (17.7%). The presence of these factors did not reliably predict BCAC versus BCA (sensitivity, 81%; specificity, 21%). Median biliary cyst size was 10.0 cm (interquartile range, 7-13 cm). Operative interventions included unroofing/partial excision of the lesion (14.1%), less than hemihepatectomy (48.8%), or hemi-/extended hepatectomy (36.3%). On pathology most lesions were BCA (89.1%), whereas 27 (10.9%) were BCAC. At last follow-up, there were 46 (18.3%) recurrences; 2 patients who initially had BCA recurred with BCAC. Median overall survival was 18.1 years; 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival was 95.0%, 86.8%, and 84.2%, respectively. Long-term outcomes were associated with BCAC versus BCA, as well as the presence of spindle cell/ovarian stroma (both P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients undergoing surgery for BCT, associated malignancy was uncommon (10%) and no preoperative findings reliably predicted underlying BCAC. After excision of BCA, long-term outcomes were good; however, patients with BCAC had a worse long-term prognosis.

Diagnosis and treatment of intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma: experience with 14 cases in a single center

Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IHBCA) is a rare type of liver tumor. There are no specific diagnostic methods for IHBCA, so its preoperative diagnostic rate is still fairly low. The aims of this study were to evaluate the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of IHBCA. We retrospectively analyzed data from 14 patients treated in our hospital from January 2004 to April 2014. Eleven patients (78.6 %) were female, and the average age was 48.0 years (range 16-77 years). The most common clinical symptoms were abdominal discomfort (i.e., abdominal pain), reported in seven cases (50 %), and fullness after eating, reported in two cases (14.3 %). Jaundice was a less common symptom reported in one case (7.1 %). Four patients (28.6 %) were asymptomatic. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan showed multilocular or internal septations in 11 cases (78.6 %) and papillary projections or mural nodules on the cyst wall in one case (7.1 %). After injection of a contrast agent, the cyst walls or septations were slightly enhanced in nine cases (64.3 %). All 14 patients underwent surgical resection. Only one case showed recurrence (2 years postoperatively); the remaining 13 patients were recurrence-free. Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma often occurs in middle-aged women. The main clinical symptoms are abdominal fullness with a sense of pain and jaundice. Enhanced CT is the main preoperative diagnostic method. Radical resection is the best treatment for IHBCA and can effectively prevent recurrence.

Preoperative differential diagnosis between intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma: A single-center experience

AIM: To investigate preoperative differential diagnoses made between intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma and intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patient data was performed, which included 21 cases of intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma and 25 cases of intrahepatic biliary cystadenocarcinoma diagnosed between April 2003 and April 2013 at the General Hospital of PLA. Potential patients were excluded whose diagnoses were not confirmed pathologically. Basic information (including patient age and gender), clinical manifestation, duration of symptoms, serum assay results (including tumor markers and the results of liver function tests), radiological features and pathological results were collected. All patients were followed up.

RESULTS: Preoperative levels of cancer antigen 125 (12.51 ± 9.31 vs 23.20 ± 21.86, P < 0.05) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (22.56 ± 26.30 vs 72.55 ± 115.99, P < 0.05) were higher in the cystadenocarcinoma subgroup than in the cystadenoma subgroup. There were no statistically significant differences in age or gender between the two groups, or in pre- or post-operative levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin (TBIL), and direct bilirubin (DBIL) between the two groups. However, eight of the 21 patients with cystadenoma and six of the 25 patients with cystadenocarcinoma had elevated levels of TBIL and DBIL. There were three cases in the cystadenoma subgroup and six cases in the cystadenocarcinoma subgroup with postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION: Preoperative differential diagnosis relies on the integration of information, including clinical symptoms, laboratory findings and imaging results.

Hepatocellular carcinoma and other hepatic malignancies: MR imaging

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging surpasses all other imaging modalities in characterizing liver lesions by virtue of the exquisite tissue contrast, specificity for various tissue types, and extreme sensitivity to contrast enhancement. In addition to differentiating benign from malignant lesions, MR imaging generally discriminates between the various malignant liver lesions. Hepatocellular carcinoma constitutes most primary malignant liver lesions and usually arises in the setting of cirrhosis. Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is a distant second and features distinctly different imaging features. Overall, metastases are the most common malignant liver lesions and arise from several primary neoplasms; most commonly gastrointestinal, lung, breast, and genitourinary.

Hepatobiliary cystadenomas

INTRODUCTION

Hepatobiliary cystadenomas are rare cystic tumours that can arise from any portion of the biliary tract but most commonly develop intrahepatically. They typically cause non-specific symptoms and are often detected incidentally. Cystadenomas can be mistaken for simple hepatic cysts on radiological imaging, which leads to inadequate treatment. Hepatobiliary cystadenomas have a malignant predisposition and a high recurrence rate. Complete excision including hepatic resection is therefore generally recommended.

METHODS

Three cases of hepatobiliary cystadenoma were identified at one unit over a six-month period. Their clinical details and management are reported.

RESULTS

Three female patients are described aged 25, 37 and 73 years. One patient presented because of recurrent infection, one presented because of pressure related symptoms and one lesion was identified incidentally. All patients were investigated by ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT), two additionally had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and one had a liver biopsy. The tumours were 4-16cm in size and all lesions were excised by non-anatomical, parenchyma sparing resections. Histology revealed mixed epithelium with underlying ovarian-like stroma.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of hepatic cystadenomas as well as operative and pathological findings are discussed. Preoperative ultrasonography, CT and MRI is recommended, and early referral for specialist hepatobiliary review is advised. Operative resection is also recommended and complete excision was achieved in these cases. This strategy is supported by the current literature and recurrence has been shown to be unlikely.

Current management of noninfectious hepatic cystic lesions: A review of the literature

Nonparasitic hepatic cysts consist of a heterogeneous group of disorders, which differ in etiology, prevalence, and manifestations. With improving diagnostic techniques, hepatic cysts are becoming more common. Recent advancements in minimally invasive technology created a new Era in the management of hepatic cystic disease. Herein, the most current recommendations for management of noninfectious hepatic cysts are described, thereby discussing differential diagnosis, new therapeutic modalities and outcomes.

Management of giant hepatic cysts in the laparoscopic era

Purpose

We sought to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of laparoscopic resection of giant hepatic cysts and surgical success, focusing on cyst recurrence.

Methods

From February 2004 to August 2011, 37 consecutive patients with symptomatic hepatic cysts were evaluated and treated at Dong-A University Hospital. Indications were simple cysts (n = 20), multiple cysts (n = 6), polycystic disease (n = 2), and cystadenoma (n = 9).

Results

The median patient age was 64 years, with a mean lesion diameter of 11.4 cm. The coincidence between preoperative imaging and final pathologic diagnosis was 54% and half (n = 19) of the cysts were located in segments VII and VIII. Twenty-two patients had American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification I and II, and nine had ASA classification III. Surgical treatment of hepatic cysts were open liver resection (n = 3), laparoscopic deroofing (n = 24), laparoscopic cyst excision (n = 4), laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy (n = 2), hand assisted laparoscopic procedure (n = 2), and single port laparoscopic deroofing (n = 2). The mean fellow-up was 21 months, and six patients (16%) experienced radiographic-apparent recurrence. Reoperation due to recurrence was performed in two patients. Among the factors predicting recurrence, multivariate analysis revealed that interventional radiological procedures and pathologic diagnosis were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic resection of giant hepatic cysts is a simple and effective method to relieve symptoms with minimal surgical trauma. Moreover, the recurrence is dependent on the type of pathology involved, and the sclerotherapy undertaken.