Biliary cystadenoma with mesenchymal stroma: Report of a case and review of the literature

Hepatic Biliary Adenofibroma: Histological Characteristics, Diagnostic Challenges, and Its Role as a Precursor to Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma

Hepatic biliary adenofibroma is an exceedingly rare biliary neoplasm that primarily affects adults. It typically presents as a solitary mass composed of low-grade microcystic and tubuloglandular bile duct structures, which are lined by low columnar to cuboidal non-mucin-producing biliary epithelium and supported by abundant fibrous stroma. Histologically, it resembles the Von Meyenburg complex but is much larger in size and often shows cytologic atypia. Although considered benign, emerging case studies and analyses suggest that biliary adenofibroma may serve as a precursor lesion to intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. However, its extreme rarity, coupled with an incompletely understood histogenesis, perpetuates diagnostic uncertainty and may lead to misclassification with other similar entities. This review consolidates the current understanding of the histopathological and molecular characteristics of biliary adenofibroma, highlights its differential diagnosis, explores its potential progression to cholangiocarcinoma, and discusses unresolved questions while proposing future research directions.

Biliary Cystadenoma with High Dysplasia Detected Incidentally in a Young Patient Admitted for Percutaneous Abscess Drainage

Biliary cystadenomas are uncommon lesions with clinical and radiological characteristics that overlap with other cystic liver lesions. Here, we intended to discuss a biliary cystadenoma found in a 37-year-old female patient who had been treated for a liver abscess and had been sent to our clinic with a long-term hydatid cyst diagnosis.

Complex cystic liver lesions: classification, diagnosis, and management

Cystic liver disease has been increasingly reported in the literature, with a prevalence as high as 15-18%. Hepatic cysts are usually discovered incidentally, while their characterization and classification rely on improved imaging modalities. Complex cystic liver lesions comprise a wide variety of novel, re-introduced, and re-classified clinical entities. This spectrum of disorders ranges from non-neoplastic conditions to benign and malignant tumors. Their clinicopathological features, prognostic factors, and oncogenic pathways are incompletely understood. Despite representing a heterogeneous group of disorders, they can have similar clinical and imaging characteristics. As a result, the diagnosis and management of complex liver cysts can become quite challenging. Furthermore, inappropriate diagnosis and management can lead to high morbidity and mortality. In this review, we aim to offer up-to-date insight into the diagnosis, classification, and management of the most common complex cystic liver lesions.

Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma, a challenging diagnosis and management: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Biliary cystadenoma (BC) is a benign hepatic cystic tumor with degenerative potential. Hepatic MRI can help guide the diagnosis. Surgical resection is recommended due to the malignant potential of biliary cystadenomas. Only anatomopathological examination of the surgical specimen can establish the definitive diagnosis of BC. The objective of this case report is to enhance our understanding of this disease and contribute to precise diagnosis for optimal management.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 55-year-old woman with a history of hypertension and atrial fibrillation presented to the surgery department with paroxysmal right hypochondrial pain. Ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large septated cystic lesion occupying segments II, III, and IV of the liver. The patient underwent left hepatectomy without incident. The postoperative course was marked by a deep collection opposite the sectional area, which was successfully treated with antibiotics and radiological drainage. The pathological diagnosis confirmed BC without signs of malignancy, and no recurrence was detected post-surgery.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

The rarity of BC, the absence of specific clinical signs and its potential for malignant transformation, underline the need for sophisticated imaging techniques. However, preoperative radiological diagnosis does not exceed 50 %. The operative decision requires a multidisciplinary discussion between radiologists and surgeons. This case highlights the unavailability of radical surgical treatment in cases of strong preoperative suspicion of BC. The cooperation of the pathologist in the histological diagnosis is crucial.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of BC should be considered in cases of multilocular cystic lesions in the liver, particularly in instances of recurrent cysts. Imaging aids in both positive and differential diagnoses. Complete resection is the recommended treatment for any suspected BC.

Musinous cystic neoplasia mimicking hydatid cyst in the liver: Two rare cases

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver (MCN-L) is a rare tumor which accounts for less than 5% of all liver cysts. Although they are considered to be "benign cysts" radiologically and clinically because of their slow growth, they are considered as premalignant. We present two radiologically misdiagnosed cases that operated in a short time range, in order to increase awareness for these rare tumors. A 47-year-old female patient who had no active complaints 58 x 40 mm cystic lesion was detected in the liver, which was diagnosed hydatid cyst radiologically. The pathological examination showed multiloculated cysts which was covered by low-grade mucinous epithelium and ovarian-type stroma on the cyst wall. A 50-year-old female patient presented with abdominal distention. The radiographical screening revealed a 204 x 140 mm cystic lesion that completely fills left lobe of liver which interpreted in favor of hydatid cyst. Histopathologically, the inner surface of the cyst was covered with low grade mucinous epithelium. Ovarian-type stroma was detectable only by immunohistochemistry due to significant bleeding and edema on the wall. The diagnosis of both of our cases was low grade MCN-L. Since cysts were not intact at the time of gross examination, we could not make any comment about surgical margins or total excision. MCN-L is a tumor that creates difficulty in presurgical differential diagnosis because of its rarity and lack of specific radiologic features. Although the prognosis is excellent as a result of total excision in the benign group, relapses have also been reported.

Biliary Cystadenoma in a Child: A Rare Entity

Biliary cystadenoma, a rare potentially malignant hepatic cystic lesion, is characterized by multiloculations and septations. It is common in middle-aged females (about 5% of nonparasitic liver cysts); only 12 cases are described in children. We report a rare case of hepatic biliary cystadenoma in a 3-year-old girl, with a gradually increasing lump in the right upper abdomen. Complete excision with a healthy liver margin was done.

Liver Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm With Obstructive Jaundice

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms (BMCNs) are rare and slow-growing lesions that are usually discovered incidentally. They can imitate various other liver tumors. Here, we present a 31-year-old female patient who presented with complaints of abdominal pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and obstructive jaundice. Ultrasound showed a large, lobulated, cystic liver mass. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan showed features suggestive of a hydatid cyst or complicated liver cyst. A laparoscopic deroofing was performed and showed a liver cyst involving segments 2, 3, 4A, and 4B. Histopathology showed that the cyst wall was lined by columnar mucin-producing epithelium with multifocal areas of ovarian-like stroma, and the diagnosis of biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms was made. A one-year, follow-up radiological examination did not show any recurrence. BMCNs are quite rare. The nonspecific nature of the symptoms and radiological characteristics makes the diagnosis of BMCN challenging. Imaging modalities can aid in the diagnosis, but pathological examination is essential in confirming a definite diagnosis.

Biliary cystadenoma: Case report with MRI findings and surgical confirmation

Biliary cystadenoma is a very uncommon benign cystic neoplasm involving the liver and the biliary tract. Most common presentations include right upper quadrant pain, nausea, vomiting, obstructive jaundice, and enlarging liver size. It can mimic many more commonly occurring diseases such as hepatic cyst, hepatic abscess, hydatid disease of the liver, and hepatic tuberculosis. Hence it becomes very challenging for physicians to correctly diagnose it due to its rarity and similarity with other conditions. Furthermore, very few pieces of literature guide physicians in correctly identifying the disease. Based on his physical examination and detailed investigation, we present a case report of a 72-year-old female diagnosed with biliary cystadenoma. We hope that this case report will significantly add to the existing literature on this subject.

Extrahepatic mucinous biliary cystadenoma: A rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction

Extrahepatic mucinous biliary cystadenoma is an extremely rare clinical entity that can present with varieties of vague clinical signs and symptoms. Gastric outlet obstruction caused due to this has never been reported before. We highlighted the diagnostic dilemma we faced when radiological investigations could not suggest the accurate organ of origin.

Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma With Colonic Adenomatous Polyps in a Patient With Chronic Hepatitis B: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background: Biliary cystadenomas are rare cystic tumors of the bile duct system that are mostly benign but also have the possibility of malignant transformation. Biliary cystadenomas mostly occur in the intrahepatic bile ducts and are more common in middle-aged women. Due to non-specific radiology, preoperative diagnosis is difficult and is usually performed by postoperative pathology. Complete resection is the best treatment option, and the postoperative prognosis is good.

Case Description: This study reports a case of a patient with biliary cystadenoma who was diagnosed with simultaneous chronic hepatitis B and colon (hepatic flexure) adenomatous polyps. The patient presented to the doctor because of abdominal pain, and a blood test showed hepatitis B. Computed tomography revealed both right liver and colonic lesions. Colonoscopy revealed polyps, and the postoperative pathological diagnosis was adenomatous polyps. Laparoscopic resection of the right liver tumor was performed, and it was diagnosed as hepatobiliary cystadenoma by postoperative pathological analysis combined with immunohistochemistry.

Conclusion: In patients with chronic hepatitis, the shape of biliary cystadenoma may not be very typical, and it is necessary to combine this with immunohistochemistry for diagnosis. When multiple lesions are detected in the painful area, the diagnosis of each lesion and its treatment sequence are worthy of consideration. Under normal circumstances, the prognosis of biliary cystadenoma is good; however, in patients with chronic hepatitis B, more cases need to be observed for verification.

Biliary cystadenoma masquerading as an adnexal cyst in pregnancy

The aetiological diagnosis of cystic masses detected on routine ultrasound during pregnancy can be challenging. Unless approached cautiously with a detailed history and adequate use of imaging techniques, misdiagnosis of these cystic masses are not uncommon. Cystic masses diagnosed during pregnancy are mostly of ovarian origin; however, other non-ovarian cystic masses are also detected incidentally or at laparotomy/laparoscopy. We report a rare case of ruptured biliary cystadenoma in a pregnant woman diagnosed at emergency laparotomy. She was taken up for surgery with a provisional impression of ruptured adnexal cyst. However, the cyst was found to be arising from the liver and the histology of the cyst wall was reported as biliary cystadenoma.

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.

Extrahepatic Mucinous Biliary Cystadenoma: A Case Report

Biliary cysts refer to cystic dilatation in the biliary ductal system that may be congenital or acquired. Extrahepatic biliary cysts constitute less than 10% of biliary cysts. Extrahepatic mucinous cystadenoma represents an extremely rare clinical condition with less than 100 cases reported in the English medical literature. Herein, we report the case of a middle-aged woman who presented with a clinical picture of cholestatic jaundice. Laboratory findings revealed elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase. After a thorough investigation, she was found to have a cystic lesion in the common bile duct near the cystic duction site. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy, which revealed a 2.0 × 2.0 cm cystic lesion in the common bile duct that is exerting an obstructive effect on the biliary ducts. Complete en-block excision of the cystic lesion was performed with Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy reconstruction. Histopathological examination revealed mucinous biliary cystadenoma. Although very rare, biliary cystadenoma should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis of cholestatic jaundice particularly in patients with no history of biliary stones or cholecystectomy.

Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm of the Liver and Extrahepatic Biliary Tract with Ascending Cholangitis: a Case Report and Review of the Literature

Mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver involving the extrahepatic biliary tract is a rare slow-growing benign neoplasm of biliary system that has an early clinical presentation with obstructive jaundice. These tumors have a high risk of malignant transformation, which is difficult to diagnose preoperatively by radiology or endoscopy. We present a 31-year-old female patient who presented with complaints of pain abdomen, vomiting, fever, and obstructive jaundice. Ultrasound abdomen showed features suggestive of cholangitic abscess. Computed tomography abdomen showed features suggestive of cholangitic abscess and abrupt termination of the proximal CBD secondary to the stricture. A left hemi-hepatectomy was performed which showed a multiloculated cystic liver lesion with the involvement of extrahepatic duct, cystic duct, and proximal common bile duct. Histopathology showed cyst was lined by mucin secreting columnar epithelium without nuclear atypia, the wall the cysts showed ovarian-like stroma, and the diagnosis of mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver and extrahepatic biliary tract with ascending cholangitis was made. Regular follow-up by clinical and radiological examination at 6 months did not reveal any recurrence.

Biliary cystadenoma in an endemic zone of hydatid cyst: A rare surgical surprise

The advancement of radiological investigations has led to the early and incidental detection of hepatic cystic lesions. These are most commonly the simple cysts but can be malignant as well. Despite the recent advances, these lesions still pose a diagnostic as well as therapeutic challenge. The biliary cystadenomas and carcinomas form around 5% of all the malignant cystic lesions of liver. These lesions are hardly diagnosed preoperatively and are usually a histopathological surprise. They warrant a surgical excision. Herewith, the authors are describing a case of cystic hepatic neoplasm initially misdiagnosed as hydatid cyst of liver and discovered to be a vascular cystic lesion intraoperatively. This patient underwent resection of the lesion and was discovered to harbour biliary cystadenoma on histopathological specimen.

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.

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasm mimicking a hydatid cyst: a case report and literature review

Background

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms are rare cystic lesions of the liver which carry pre-malignant potential. Given the scarcity of reports in the literature, they pose a considerable challenge to clinical management, particularly with regards to accurate pre-operative diagnosis.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 37-year-old Tunisian woman who presented with subacute right upper quadrant pain and a large multi-loculated cystic lesion, most consistent with a hydatid cyst. She underwent an open right hepatectomy, and pathology surprisingly revealed a biliary mucinous cystadenoma. Herein, we review the current literature on biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms, with a particular emphasis on diagnostic investigations, key radiological features and optimal treatment modalities.

Conclusion

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms require a high index of suspicion and should be managed with complete surgical resection, as conservative techniques are associated with high recurrence rates. Considering the potential for malignant transformation, periodical surveillance imaging is recommended in the post-operative period.

Infrequent intrahepatic cystic neoplasm: dilemmas in diagnosis and management

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasm (BMCN) is a rare intrahepatic neoplasm comprising approximately 5% of cystic liver lesions. It can cause diagnostic dilemmas with most common differentials being complex hepatic cyst, hydatid cyst and intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct. Affecting middle-aged female population, BMCN presents variedly ranging from vague abdominal symptoms to obstructive jaundice. Preoperative diagnosis is difficult. Preoperative CT scan with intravenous contrast and carbohydrate antigen 19.9 levels may give a clue towards the diagnosis. Intraoperative frozen section or cyst fluid aspiration cytology might help confirm the diagnosis. Fine needle aspirations should not be performed if BMCN is suspected, and intraoperative cyst spillage should be avoided to prevent tumour dissemination. We present here a case with a very atypical presentation of BMCN and review its present literature in brief.

Double Trouble: A Rare Case of Concurrent Biliary Adenofibroma and Hepatobiliary Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm

Biliary adenofibroma and hepatobiliary mucinous cystic neoplasm are exceedingly rare tumors. To our knowledge, no case of co-existent biliary adenofibroma and mucinous cystic neoplasm has been previously reported. We present a patient who was diagnosed with both tumors concurrently. Both can present with abdominal pain, although some are diagnosed incidentally in asymptomatic patients. Imaging and tumor markers can be suggestive, but histologic examination is needed for definitive diagnosis. Both have a propensity for malignant transformation, thus complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice. Although rare, awareness of these tumors leads to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver with extrahepatic growth presenting with ascending cholangitis diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound features: a case report

Background

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver with extrahepatic growth is a rare benign epithelial neoplasm of the biliary system that presents with a mass effect or is incidentally found on imaging. The tumor affects mostly the common hepatic duct, which is difficult to diagnose preoperatively by radiology, endoscopy, or cystic fluid analysis. Endoscopic ultrasound is a noninvasive tool for the evaluation of features of a cystic lesion and the extent of disease. Optimal treatment is complete tumor resection.

Case presentation

A 27-year-old Thai woman was referred to our hospital for investigation and treatment of clinical symptoms of obstructive jaundice and ascending cholangitis, as well as an unknown cause of obstruction. Multiple investigations were performed, including endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and magnetic resonance imaging. Endoscopic ultrasound showed a multiloculated cystic lesion with internal septations without communication to the bile duct, which helped to support a diagnosis of mucinous cystic neoplasm. Eventually, the pathological diagnosis made was mucinous cystic neoplasm of the bile duct. A follow-up clinical examination with imaging at 6 months revealed that the patient was asymptomatic and without recurrence.

Conclusions

We report a rare case of a patient with a large mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver with extrahepatic growth causing biliary obstruction, which was diagnosed on the basis of endoscopic ultrasound features. Following definitive diagnosis, treatment with complete surgical resection using a multidisciplinary approach was successful.

Primary malignant tumours in the non-cirrhotic liver

Intrahepatic chlangiocarcinomas (CCs), the second most common primary malignant liver tumours, usually occur in non-cirrhotic liver, and can be classified into three types based on gross morphology: mass-forming; periductal infiltrating; and intraductal growing. Among them, mass-forming intrahepatic CCs are the most common type and characterized by homogeneous mass with an irregular but well-defined margin with peripheral enhancement on late arterial phase and delayed enhancement in central portion of tumours corresponding to the fibrous stroma. Several imaging features such as enhancement pattern and degree of diffusion restriction have been suggested as prognostic markers for mass-forming CCs. Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) are the most common primary malignant liver tumors, and usually arise from the cirrhotic liver. However, approximately 20% of HCCs involve the non-cirrhotic liver (hereafter, non-cirrhotic HCC), and non-cirrhotic HCCs are often detected at an advanced stage due to the lack of surveillance for patients with non-cirrhotic liver. Other primary malignant liver tumours other than CCs and HCCs including angiosarcoma, undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma are quite rare, and imaging diagnosis is often difficult. This review offers a brief overview of epidemiology, risk factors and imaging features of primary malignant tumours in non-cirrhotic liver. Understanding of radiologic appearance and predisposing clinical features as well as differentials of primary malignant tumour in non-cirrhotic liver can be helpful for radiologists to adequately assess these tumours, and subsequently to make optimal management plan.

The management of a cystic hepatic lesion ruptured in the bile ducts: a case report

Background

Hepatic cystadenoma is a rare benign cystic tumor; it tends to recur after incomplete surgical resection and has malignant potential. We report the case of a patient with a ruptured biliary cystadenoma in the common bile duct that caused diagnostic and therapeutic problems.

Case presentation

A 34-year-old North African woman, admitted for angiocholitis, was operated 2 months before for a hepatic cystic lesion taken for a hydatid cyst compressing her common bile duct. The clinical and the complementary examinations converged toward recurrence of the hydatid cyst for which a surgical resection was decided. Intraoperative findings as well as the histological study of the “membranes” extracted from her common bile duct indicated a hepatic cystadenoma.

Conclusions

The rarity of hepatic cystadenoma and the non-specificity of clinical and imaging signs make diagnosis of hepatic cystadenoma difficult, especially when it is complicated by rupture in the bile ducts; this contributes to a delay in diagnosis and an inadequate therapeutic approach.

[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.

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasm: a case report and review of the literature

Hepatobiliary cystadenomas (HBC) is a rare neoplasm which comprising less than one percent of liver cystic neoplasms. Although it's known as a benign tumor, but they have a potential for neoplastic transformation. Making a proper diagnosis and ruling out of other differential diagnosis is important because of different treatment. In the present study, we described a case of HBC manifested as idiopathic dominant biliary stricture in common hepatic duct (CHD), on the basis of spiral CT scan and MRI, and elevated CA19-9. With a probable diagnosis of malignant biliary stricture, she underwent ERCP and cholangioscopy that were non-diagnostic and final diagnosis was made surgically. HBCs usually found incicentally as a cystic lesion and biliary stricture without visible cyst in imaging like that seen in cholangiocarcinoma is very unlikely. In truth, this patient is an unusual manifestation of one rare disease.

Biliary Cystadenoma: A Case Report

Biliary cystadenoma is a rare cystic neoplasms of liver that usually occurs in middle-aged women characterized by multiloculated cysts with internal septae and mural nodules. Unilocular biliary cystadenomas are rare and are difficult to differentiate from other cysts by radiology. Biliary cystadenomas are slow growing benign lesions that are easily resectable with a reported recurrence rate of 90% when the resection is incomplete. We present a case of 65-year-old male with unilocular biliary cystadenoma with mesenchymal stroma who presented with abdominal pain and distension. Laparotomy followed by cystectomy was done and postoperative period was uneventful with no abnormal biochemical, heamatological or imaging findings. Preoperative radio-imaging techniques may not always be helpful in arriving at a specific diagnosis in such cases. Hence thorough sampling and a careful histopathological examination is considered gold standard for specific diagnosis.

Cystic tumor of the liver without ovarian-like stroma or bile duct communication: two case reports and a review of the literature

We report two cases of cystic neoplasm of the liver with mucinous epithelium in which both ovarian-like stroma and bile duct communication were absent. The first case was a 41-year-old woman. She underwent right trisegmentectomy due to a multilocular cystic lesion, 15 cm in diameter, with papillary nodular components in the medial segment and right lobe. Histologically, arborizing papillae were seen in the papillary lesion. The constituent neoplastic cells had sufficient cytoarchitectural atypia to be classified as high-grade dysplasia. The second case was a 60-year-old woman. She underwent left lobectomy due to a unilocular cystic lesion, 17 cm in diameter, in the left lobe. Histologically, the cyst wall was lined by low columnar epithelia with slight cellular atypia. In both cases, neither ovarian-like stroma nor bile duct communications were found throughout the resected specimen. According to the most recent World Health Organization (WHO) classification in 2010, cystic tumors of the liver with mucinous epithelium are classified as mucinous cystic neoplasms when ovarian-like stromata are found, and as intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct when bile duct communication exists. Therefore, we diagnosed the cystic tumors as ‘biliary cystadenoma’ according to the past WHO classification scheme from 2000. We believe that the combined absence of both ovarian-like stroma and bile duct communication is possible in mucinous cystic tumors of the liver. Herein, we have described the clinicopathologic features of the two cases and reviewed past cases in the literature.

The management of hepatobiliary cystadenomas: lessons learned

BACKGROUND

Mucinous cystic neoplasms of the liver (hepatobiliary cystadenomas) are rare neoplastic lesions. Such cysts are often incorrectly diagnosed and managed, and carry a risk of malignancy. The objective of this study was to review the surgical experience with these lesions over 15 years.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review identified consecutive patients undergoing surgery for liver cystadenomas from 1997-2011. Clinical data were collected and summarized.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients (mean age 51 years, 12/13 females) with cysts 4.6-18.1 cm were identified. Most cysts were located in the left lobe/centrally (11/12) and had septations (8/13). Mural nodularity was infrequent (3/13). Nine patients had liver resection/enucleation, whereas four had unroofing. Frozen section analysis had a high false-negative rate (4/6). All patients had cystadenomas, of which two had foci of invasive carcinoma (cystadenocarcinoma) within mural nodules. There was no 90-day mortality. All but one patient (myocardial infarction) were alive at a median follow-up of 23.1 months. No patient with unroofing has developed malignancy to date.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-invasive hepatobiliary cystadenomas present as large central/left-sided cysts in young or middle-aged women. Associated malignancy was relatively uncommon and found within mural nodules. Intra-operative frozen section analysis was ineffective at ruling out cystadenomas. Complete excision is recommended, but close follow-up might be considered in patients with a prohibitive technical or medical risk, in the absence of nodularity on high-quality imaging.

Asymptomatic hepatobiliary cystadenoma of the hepatic caudate lobe: a case report

Human hepatobiliary cystadenoma is a rare benign cystic tumor of the liver, and is extremely rare in the caudate lobe. We herein present a case of a 70-year-old male with a hepatobiliary cystadenoma originating from the caudate lobe.

Invasive biliary mucinous cystic neoplasm: a review

OBJECTIVES

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms (BMCNs) are recently redefined rare liver tumours in which insufficient recognition frequently leads to an incorrect initial or delayed diagnosis. A concise review of the subtle, sometimes non-specific, clinical, serologic and radiographic features will allow for a heightened awareness and more comprehensive understanding of these entities.

METHODS

Literature relating to the presentation, diagnosis, treatment, pathology and outcomes of BMCNs and published prior to March 2012 was reviewed.

RESULTS

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms most commonly occur in females (≥60%) in the fifth decade of life. Clinical symptoms, serologic markers and imaging modalities are unreliable for diagnosis of BMCNs, which leads to misdiagnosis in 55-100% of patients. Perioperative cyst aspiration is not recommended as invasive BMCNs can only be differentiated from non-invasive BMCNs by microscopic evaluation for the presence of ovarian-type stroma. Intraoperative biopsy and frozen section(s) are essential to differentiate BMCNs from other cystic liver lesions. The treatment of choice is complete excision and can result in excellent survival with initial correct diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

A low threshold for considering BMCN in the differential diagnosis of cystic liver lesions and increased attentiveness to its subtle diagnostic characteristics are imperative. The complete surgical resection of BMCNs and the use of appropriate nomenclature are necessary to improve outcomes and accurately define prognosis.

Biliary cystadenomas: a case for complete resection

Introduction and Objective. Biliary cystadenoma is a rare benign neoplasm of the liver with less than 200 cases being reported allover the world. We report a series of 13 cases highlighting the radiological findings and problems related to its management. Materials and Methods. Records of thirteen patients who underwent surgery for biliary cystadenomas, between March 2006 and October 2011, were reviewed retrospectively. Results. Majority of the patients were females (11 out of 13), with a median age of 46 (23–65) years. The most frequent symptom was abdominal pain (92%). Seven patients had presented with history of previous surgery for liver lesions. Five patients had presented with recurrence after partial resection for a suspected hydatid cyst and two after surgery for presumed simple liver cyst. Ten of the 13 patients had complete resection of the cyst with enucleation in 3 patients, 2 of whom in addition required T-tube drainage of the bile duct. There has been no recurrence during the follow-up period ranging from 3 months to 5 years. Conclusion. Biliary cystadenoma must be differentiated from other benign cysts. Hepatic resection or cyst enucleation is the recommended treatment option.

Clinical outcome and long term results after surgical treatment of biliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma

Backgrounds/Aims

Biliary cystadenoma (BCA) and cystadenocarcinoma (BCCA) are rare cystic hepatic neoplasms. Prior reports concerning the proper surgical treatment and long-term survival are scarce. We report our experience and survival outcome of 30 patients over the last 25 years.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinicopathologic data of the pathologically confirmed 18 BCA and 12 BCCA patients, who underwent operations from 1983 to 2006, at the Seoul National University Hospital.

Results

The patients consisted of 8 men and 22 women with a mean age of 51 years. With abdominal computed tomography scans, 73.3% (n=22) were preoperatively diagnosed as BCA or BCCA, and differentiating BCCA from BCA was accurate in 58.3% patients. R0 resection was achieved in 90% (n=27). The differentiating factors included the presence of mural nodule (4/18 vs. 8/12; p=0.009) and mucinous content (2/9 vs. 8/1; p=0.005), and tumor size tending to be larger in BCCA (11.7 cm vs. 7.9 cm; p=0.067). Overall 5-year and 10-year survival rates of BCCA were 72.9% and 60.9%, respectively. Of patients with BCCA, 4 experienced recurrence. In case of recurrence, patients tended to be younger than 50 years (p=0.061) and the lesions tended to be larger than those without recurrence (p=0.088).

Conclusions

Preoperative differentiations of BCA from simple cyst, and BCCA from BCA are still difficult. Complete removal of the tumor, via major hepatectomy, should be considered, especially in the younger age group with large tumor.

[Benign non-parasitic hepatic cystic tumours]

Hepatic cystic tumours are a heterogeneous group of diseases with different aetiology and incidence, and with similar clinical signs and symptoms. They are classified as congenital, traumatic, parasitic, or neoplastic cysts. The congenital cystic tumours are the most prevalent, and include the simple cyst and polycystic hepatic disease. Other less common lesions are, hepatic cystadenoma, ciliated embryonic cyst, and a miscellaneous group. We have carried out a review of all benign non-parasitic hepatic cystic tumours, placing special emphasis on therapeutic strategies.

[Intrahepatic biliary cystic lesions]

Intrahepatic biliary cysts encompass a large lesional spectrum including hereditary diseases as polycystic liver disease or Caroli's syndrome, malformative lesions as non hereditary Caroli's disease or simple biliary cyst and true neoplastic lesions as cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma. The diagnostic approach of these lesions relies firstly on imaging. Nevertheless, the pathologist not exceptionally receives surgical specimens from cystic fenestration or liver specimen resection with one or several cystic lesions. The clues for pathological diagnosis of these lesions have to be known by pathologists. As regards neoplastic cystic lesions, true non-communicating cystic tumors and cystic variants of intraductal biliary tumors have to be distinguished; in both cases, the classification is now identical to the one of pancreatic cystic tumors.

Spontaneous rupture of a giant hepatobiliary serous cystadenoma: report of a case and literature review

Hepatobiliary cystadenomas are rare cystic neoplasms that often occur in middle age women, and spontaneous rupture is extremely rare. The exact etiology of these tumors is unknown. Diagnosis is often delayed, while misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment may result in unfavorable outcome. We report a case of hepatobiliary serous cystadenoma with mesenchymal stroma, initially misdiagnosed as simple hepatic cyst with intracystic hemorrhage. The rapid growth of the giant tumor leads to spontaneous rupture, almost turned into a life-threatening event. After emergency formal liver resection, the patient recovered well without recurrence during the 6-month follow-up period. We also reviewed the literature, proposed possible factors for the tumor's rapid growth, and discuss the current diagnostic and treatment modalities.

Differential diagnosis for intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma and hepatic simple cyst: significance of cystic fluid analysis and radiologic findings

GOALS

This study evaluated the significance of cystic fluid analysis and radiologic findings in the differential diagnosis of biliary cystadenomas (BCA) and hepatic simple cysts (HSCs).

BACKGROUND

BCA are premalignant lesions. The treatment of choice is surgical excision. It is important to differentiate BCA from HSCs because they have different clinical significances and treatment plans. However, it is difficult to preoperatively differentiate a BCA from a HSC.

STUDY

This retrospective study was done with 31 patients suffering from pathologically diagnosed BCA or HSC. All patients underwent surgery between May 1995 and June 2008 at a single institution and had cystic fluid analysis preoperatively or intraoperatively.

RESULTS

We discovered no statistically significant differences in cystic fluid carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9) levels or carcinoembryonic antigen levels when comparing BCA (n=17) and HSCs (n=14). BCA were significantly more frequently associated with female sex (17/17 vs. 10/14, P=0.032), presence of a septum (16/17 vs.5/14, P=0.001), and septal thickening (8/17 vs. 1/14, P=0.021). All 3 cases with calcifications belonged to the BCA group, but sample size was too small to demonstrate statistical significance. There were no statistically significant differences in other clinical and radiologic findings including age, presence of symptoms, serum tumor markers, serum chemistry, size, location, lobulation, septal enhancement, wall enhancement, wall thickening, mural nodule, or biliary dilatation.

CONCLUSIONS

Cystic fluid carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels and carcinoembryonic antigen levels were not useful for differential diagnosis of BCA vs. HSC. BCA were more common than HSCs in females, patients with a septum, and patients with septal thickening.

Laparoscopic fenestration of multiple giant biliary mucinous cystadenomas of the liver

Biliary cystadenomas of the liver are rare, cystic neoplasms of the biliary ductal system usually occur in middle aged women. We report a case of synchronous multiple huge biliary mucinous cystadenomas with unique features. This is, according to our knowledge, the first report in the literature about three synchronously occurring hepatobiliary cystadenomas. Cystadenomas have a strong tendency to recur, particularly following incomplete excision, and a potential of malignant transformation. A therapeutic re-evaluation may be necessary when the diagnosis of hepatobiliary cystadenoma is made after the operation and an open liver resection should be considered.