Hepatic calcification following umbilical vein catheterization in a premature baby

Hepatic Calcified Tumor-like Mass Complicating Umbilical Vein Catheterization in a Neonate

Presented is a case of a hepatic calcified mass complicating umbilical vein catheterization in a neonate and diagnosed by wedge biopsy. Wedge biopsy of the hepatic mass, situated in proximity to the falciform ligament, revealed expansion of portal tracts by fibrosis and calcification. Some aggregates of calcified material appeared in ectatic vascular spaces. The biopsy findings accounted for the radiographic appearance of the mass and the constellation of features were deemed indicative of calcification secondary to umbilical vein catheterization. Umbilical vein catheterization in neonates may be complicated by a calcified mass that requires histologic evaluation for distinction from other space-occupying lesions. Such a calcified pseudotumor may develop after an umbilical catheter has been in place for only 5 days.