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Introduction. Biliary cystadenoma (BCA) and biliary cystadenocarcinoma (BCAC) are rare, unusual lesions, that most commonly appear in the right lobe of the liver. Clinical and radiological findings are very similar with liver hydatid cysts. Therefore, the differential diagnosis with liver hydatid cyst (LHC) is usually made by pathological examination, postoperatively. The objective of the study was to detect the prevalence of BCA and BCAC in patients who were treated for hydatid cysts. Material and methods. Data of 720 cases with operated liver hydatid cysts (LHC) at the General Surgery Clinics of Seyhan State Hospital Adana, Turkey, and Near East University Nicosia, Cyprus, were retrospectively reviewed. The study included 10 patients with BCA and two patients with BCAC, who were operated with a preliminary diagnosis of liver hydatid cyst. Results. Of the 12 patients included in the study, 5 were male and 7 were female. The mean age of the patients was 43.58 years. All patients were pre-diagnosed with liver hydatid cyst after preoperative laboratory and radiological evaluations and all underwent partial cystectomy. The results of histopathological examination showed that 10 of these patients had BCA and two had BCAC. The mean follow–up was 28.4 months. During this period, recurrence was seen in 3 out of 10 patients with BCA and total cystectomy was performed in these 3 patients. Two patients with BCAC underwent right hepatectomy. Conclusions. The follow-up and evaluation of the histopathological results are very important in patients operated with the diagnosis of liver hydatid cyst. Cases with biliary cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma, which are difficult to detect, especially in the preoperative period, should be re-evaluated and complementary operations should be performed.

Background: Intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma (IBC) is a rare benign cystic tumor of the liver with carcinogenic potential. Due to its low incidence and lack of specific clinical symptoms and signs, IBC is easily confused with other cystic liver lesions; even today, IBC mistakenly underwent fenestration and drainage according to the hepatic cyst in adverse conditions consequences for patients.Methods: The clinical data of six patients with pathologically defined IBC, admitted to the Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of the Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University from January, 2011, to July, 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.Results: Four patients (4/6) were diagnosed with IBC preoperatively, administrated the surgery, and discharged successfully. One patient underwent single-port laparoscopic fenestration and drainage of liver cyst, cyst wall biopsy, intraoperative pathology revealed IBC, then open left hemihepatectomy. Another patient underwent laparoscopic fenestration and drainage of hepatic cyst. Intraoperative pathologic diagnosis from cyst wall biopsy showed a simple hepatic cyst, but the final pathological diagnosis was IBC. The remaining liver volume was insufficient to undergo liver resection; the patient was again referred to our institution after four months with right upper quadrant pain. Computed tomography revealed extensive abdominal nodules, considered malignant transformation, and the patient died three months later.Conclusion: Since atypical IBC is easily misdiagnosed as hepatic cysts, and we propose paying attention to cystic wall morphology and cyst fluid properties during the operation. At the same time, it is recommended that patients diagnosed with liver cysts undergo intraoperative pathological diagnosis and strengthen communication with pathologists to deepen understanding of IBC, which avoids missed diagnosis, wrong operation, or even secondary operation.

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.

Background: Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma (IBC) is rare but has a high incidence of misdiagnosis, especially for experienceless surgeons. Case: We report a case of IBC located in the caudate lobe and described a typical procedure of misdiagnosing this disease. Finally, the patient was successfully cured, but the procedure of misdiagnosis should attract attention. IBC and atypical biopsy for histological examination are the most important causes of misdiagnosis. Recurrent cystic lesions of the liver and repeated increases in CA 19-9 may suggest a "liver cyst", which is a misdiagnosis. Conclusion: The experience and lessons of misdiagnosis, in this case, may help other clinicians diagnose the rare disease accurately.

Mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs) are uncommon cystic lesions that arise in the liver and biliary system (MCN-LBS) and the pancreas (MCN-P) and rarely arise from the extrahepatic biliary system. Histologically, these lesions are defined by the presence of variably mucin-producing epithelium with ovarian-like, hypercellular mesenchymal stroma. Herein, we present a case of extrahepatic MCN-LBS in a 51-year-old woman. This lesion arose from the cystic duct and was removed via laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis. To our knowledge, this is the third case report of an MCN-LBS arising from the cystic duct in the English literature. In this article, we review clinical and histologic characteristics of MCNs and present two other reports of MCN-LBS of the cystic duct.

Laparoscopy is routinely considered as the treatment of choice for hepatic cysts. Laparoscopic unroofing was performed for benign cysts. Laparoscopic liver resection was performed for suspected malignant cystic neoplasms, including biliary cystadenoma/carcinoma or intraductal papillary neoplasms.

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.

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver is a rare slow-growing lesion accounting for less than 5% of all hepatic cystic neoplasms. Differential diagnosis from other cystic lesions remains challenging despite progress achieved in the radiological modalities. Only histopathological examination of the surgical specimen establishes with certainty the diagnosis.

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.

Backgroud: We present our experiences, particularly long term followup, of 20 patients who underwent operations for BCA or BCAC over the last 15 years in an effort to formulate more effective management strategies Methods: Clinical data on patients with pathologically confirmed BCA or BCAC between June 2002 and May 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Twenty patients were pathologically diagnosed with intrahepatic BCA (12) or BCAC (8); the mean ages for these 2 groups were 46.3 years and 62.0 years, respectively (P = 0.000). The main imaging feature for most BCA patients (83.3%) was cystic mass with septations. The main imaging features for BCAC were unilocular or unilocular cysts with papillary projections or solid portions. All BCAC patients received surgical treatment. No BCA patients developed recurrent cystadenoma after complete excision. Five (62.5 per cent) of the 8 BCAC patients died during a median follow-up time of 61.8 months. Three deaths were due to metastasis. The median follow-up of BCAC patients without a recurrence was 90.7months (range 31–152). Conclusions: Factors associated with a higher likelihood of BCA or BCAC include being a middle-aged or older woman, having elevated serum CA19-9 levels, showing high-risk features on imaging, and having recurrent liver cyst(s). Radical excision is recommended to obtain long-term tumor-free survival.

Introduction: Biliary cystadenoma is a rare benign neoplasm of the liver with less than 200 cases being reported all over the world. The greatest challenge in the management of biliary cystadenoma lies in the pre-operative diagnosis, since it is most often misdiagnosed as simple liver cyst or hydatid cyst. We report a series of 12 cases highlighting the radiological findings and problems related to its management with special focus on intrahepatic biliary cystadenomas; a very unusual benign cause of obstructive jaundice and their management. Case Series: Records of 12 patients who underwent surgery for biliary cystadenomas, between 2013 and 2016, were reviewed and analysed retrospectively. Of the 12 patients with biliary cystadenomas, three patients had features of obstructive jaundice in the absence of any other recognized cause of biliary obstruction. Majority of the patients were females. The most frequent symptom was abdominal pain (92%); with obstructive jaundice seen in three patients (25%). All patients were subjected to routine blood investigations with Liver function tests and in addition Serum CA 19-9 was done. We had three patients who had protruding mass like lesion into the biliary tract causing obstruction to bile flow. MRI with MRCP was done in all patients before subjecting them to surgical exploration; who were managed with extrication of the growth along with enucleation/ resection. There has been no recurrence during the follow-up period ranging from six months to three years. All 12 patients underwent surgical management which included enucleation in four patients and non-anatomical liver resection in eight patients and some in addition required T-tube drainage of the bile duct. Totally 25 cases of Biliary Cystadenomas have been managed in our Institute till date with only three cases of Obstructive jaundice. Conclusion: In patients with obstructive jaundice, especially middle aged women, with the background of normal CA 19-9 levels and a polypodal mass projecting into the bile duct lumen intraductal biliary cystadenomas should be considered as a possible diagnosis. If feasible limited resection of the cyst with extrication of this benign lesion with close follow up and frequent imaging of the liver is advisable to locate early recurrences if any.

Objective To identify performance of imaging features in differentiating hepatic cysts from biliary cystadenomas of the liver. Methods 25 pathologically confirmed hepatic cystic lesions (hepatic cysts or biliary cystadenomas) were evaluated retrospectively and predetermined imaging features assessed for performance in differentiation. Results Any septation which arose from a cyst wall without external indentation had a very high association with biliary cystadenoma, while the presence of a thick septation had only a moderate association. Conclusions The relationship between septations and the wall of the cystic lesion performed better than previously reported features including thick septations.

Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms are rare parenchymal neoplasms with a considerable malignant potential. Due to a lack of diagnostic imaging criteria, histopathologic evaluation remains the definitive method of diagnosis. Resection is the treatment of choice. Here, the authors present a case of biliary mucinous neoplasm in a 39-year-old female with the associated radiographic and histopathologic findings.

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.

Biliary cystadenoma (BCA) is a rare cystic neoplasm of liver with malignant potential and female predominance, mostly asymptomatic that will lead to late identification. BCAs are mostly do not communicate with Biliary tract but communication was reported in some studies, BCA has higher rate of recurrence after incomplete removal so the standard management is complete resection or partial hepatectomy. We report a case of BCA in 72-year aged female with ECOG score 3. Computed tomography showed BCA involving segment II, III, IV and VIII of liver without any malignant features, which was treated with laparoscopic deroofing with omentopexy and no recurrence at 1 year follow up. We used indocyanine green-fluorescent image to look for biliary communication. This study aims to report that minimal accesses surgery with deroofing and omentopexy can be alternative treatment for BCA without any malignant features in a poor performance status and use of Indocyanine green-fluorescent image to avoid biliary injury and rule out communication.

Biliary cystadenoma is a rare benign hepatobiliary cystic tumor, more common in middle-aged women. The clinical manifestation is variable. It can be asymptomatic or symptomatic presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or a palpable mass. We report a case of a 36-year-old female patient, with a biliary cystadenoma mimicking a hydatid cyst (HC) complicated by local recurrence. The radiological diagnosis can be difficult and may present a problem of differential diagnosis with the HC and complicated liver cyst. Surgical management is based on complete resection given the high risk of recurrence and malignant degeneration.

Biliary cystadenomas are benign but potentially malignant cystic neoplasm. The preferred treatment is radical resection because it is difficult to differentiate a benign from a malignant biliary cystadenoma. A 40 year-old woman presented with moderate abdominal discomfort. Esophageal varix was found up to mid-esophagus on endoscopy. She has no prior history of liver disease or chronic alcohol ingestion. About 15cm sized biliary cystadenoma was diagnosed by ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Serum level of bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and tumor marker were elevated. The patient underwent US-guided aspiration. Tumor markers from the aspirated fluid are increased. Left hepatectomy was performed to completely remove the cyst. Histology of the resected specimen confirmed a biliary cystadenoma of the liver with ovary-like stroma. Without prior history of liver disease or chronic alcoholic ingestion, incidental finding of esophageal varix could show an important clue for diagnosis of biliary cystadenoma.

Background/aims Liver cystadenomas are rare conditions accounting to approximately 5% of all cystic lesions. The aim of our study was to establish a new diagnostic and complex therapeutic approach. Materials and methods In all, 12 female patients primarily diagnosed with cystadenoma of the liver were evaluated. Enucleation of the cystadenoma was performed in six (54.5%) and liver resection in four (33.3%) patients. Due to the localization, complete enucleation or radical liver resection could not be performed in two patients. Results In three patients, grade III-a complications were recorded after surgery. The 30-day mortality was 0%. The length of hospitalization was 27 (7-52) days. Malignant transformation occurred in two patients with incomplete removal of the cystadenoma. In both cases, carbohydrate antigen 19-9 serum levels were elevated during the follow-up period. The first patient died 28 months after primary surgery. The second patient failed to attend any further appointments. The remaining patients are in the good conditions, with no signs of recurrence. Conclusion The only possible treatment of cystadenomas is their radical surgical removal. Any other incomplete surgical treatment is insufficient and associated with a high risk of malignant transformation. For patients in whom R0 resection or complete enucleation cannot be performed for technical reasons, liver transplantation should be considered.

A diagnosis of cystic lesion of epigastrium is challenging without strong evidence from history and physical examination. A 33-year-old lady has an epigastric mass without hepato-pancreaticobiliary symptoms, was unable to be diagnosed through radiological assessment and biochemical markers. She was diagnosed with hepatobiliary cystadenoma through intraoperative assessment. We present a case of biliary cystadenoma with diagnostic challenge.

Background: Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasms (BMCNs) are uncommon neoplastic septated intrahepatic cysts which are often incorrectly diagnosed and have the potential for malignant transformation.Objectives: To assess the outcome of surgical resection of BMCNs.Methods: A prospective liver surgery database was used to identify patients who underwent surgery at Groote Schuur Hospital Complex for BMCN from 1999 to 2015. Demographic variables including age and gender were documented as well as detailed preoperative imaging, location and size, operative treatment, extent of resection, histology, postoperative complications and outcome.Results: Thirteen female patients (median age 45 years) had surgery. Eleven were diagnosed by imaging for symptoms. Two were jaundiced. One cyst was found during an elective cholecystectomy. Five cysts were located centrally in the liver. Before referral three cysts were treated with percutaneous drainage and two were treated with operative deroofing. Six patients had anatomical liver resections and seven patients had non anatomical liver resections of which two needed ablation of residual cyst wall. One patient needed a biliary-enteric reconstruction to treat a fistula. Median operative time was 183 minutes (range: 130–375). No invasive carcinoma was found. There was no operative mortality. One surgical site infection and one intra-abdominal collection were treated. Two patients developed recurrent BMCN after 24 months.Conclusion: BMCNs should be considered in middle aged women who have well encapsulated multilocular liver cysts. Treatment of large central BMCNs adjacent to vascular and biliary structures may require technically complex liver resections and are best managed in a specialised hepato-pancreatico-biliary unit.Keywords: Biliary mucinous cystic neoplasm, biliary cystadenoma, liver cysts, benign liver tumours

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.

Biliary cystadenoma (BCA) is a rare tumor which is difficult to diagnose before surgery. We present a case of 73 years old woman with a previous histological diagnosis of biliary cystadenoma occurred in 2009, surgically removed. In January 2018, abdomen Computerized Tomography scan (CTs) showed a 65 mm diameter cystic mass in the fifth hepatic segment. Even if the patient refused to undergo surgical resection due to her several comorbilities, imaging features and clinical history are suggestive for BCA recurrence.

Mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver (MCN-L) is a very rare tumor whose detailed behavior is still unknown. We describe two cases of MCN-L that exhibited extremely interesting growth patterns, and discuss the characteristics of MCN-Ls. Both cases exhibited MCN-L that originated from the left hepatic lobe (Segment 4) and then prolapsed into the left hepatic duct and common bile duct, resulting in obstructive jaundice due to expansive growth. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographies showed the characteristic oval-shaped filling defects in the bile ducts. Endoscopic ultrasound and intraductal ultrasound were useful for differentiating the tumors from stones, since multiple septal formations were observed inside the tumors. A literature search revealed that, over the past 10 years, 15 cases of MCN-L (biliary cystadenomas with ovarian-like stroma) that showed expansive growth in the bile duct had been reported. Prolapse into the bile duct and expansive growth appear to be characteristic behavior of MCN-L. In the future, additional data on more cases needs to be collected to further elucidate MCN-L pathophysiology.

Complex cystic focal liver lesions (FLLs) found at non-contrast ultrasound (US) may turn out to be malignant. In this prospective, monocentric study we investigated the value of contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) in the differential diagnosis of complex cystic FLLs. In the past 3 years, all patients with complex cystic FLLs unclassifiable at US underwent CEUS with low-transmit insonation power. We evaluated 36 consecutive patients with 61 FLLs (1-6/patient, mean = 2). The diameter of the lesions ranged from 1.1 to 7.9 cm (mean = 3.9 cm). Sixteen patients had an extrahepatic malignancy. There were 42 malignant lesions and 19 benign lesions. No lesion had a certain diagnosis at conventional US, whereas 16 FLLs were classified as probable (benign or malignant) and 45 as uncertain. CEUS correctly categorized 95% of the malignant cases. CEUS was not able to differentiate the biliary cystadenoma from its malignant counterpart and misdiagnosed two abscesses. Complete non-enhancement throughout three phases or sustained enhancement in the portal/late phase was exhibited in most benign complex cystic FLLs, except for 1 (of the 3) cystadenomas and in 2 (of the 4) abscesses. On the other hand, all malignant lesions presented a contrast washout with a hypo-enhancing appearance. CEUS may provide added diagnostic value in all complex cystic FLLs found uncertain at conventional US, potentially avoiding the use of more invasive and expensive imaging modalities.

Biliary cystadenoma represents a rare benign cystic hepatic neoplasm with premalignant potential. The diagnosis is usually difficult, and imaging methods may not be possible to clarify the pathology. It can be hard to determine, particularly in patients with a previous cancer history that has high metastatic potential in the liver. We presented a 53-year-old man with a newly diagnosed liver mass that was suspicious for metastasis 2 years after gastric cancer surgery and histological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of biliary cystadenoma.

Biliary cystadenoma are rare cystic lesions of liver. They accounts for less than 5% of nonparasitic cyst of liver. Hueter first reported biliary cystadenoma in 1887. It is an extremely rare benign hepatic tumor arising from von meyerberg complexes. It occurs frequently in middle age between 40 and 50 years with female preponderance. We, hereby, report a case of 70 year male, who presented with mass and pain in the right upper abdomen. Keyword: Liver, Cyst, Biliary cystadenoma, Biliary cystadenocarcinoma

Perforation of the gallbladder is a rare, but potentially fatal complication of acute cholecystitis. Gallbladder perforations presenting electively as a space-occupying lesion of the liver are its rarest presentation. We report one such case, which was a diagnostic conundrum. A 50-year-old female presented with upper abdominal pain of 6 months duration. On examination, she was afebrile and had minimal tenderness in the right upper quadrant. All of her blood investigations were unremarkable, and her imaging showed features suggestive of a biliary cystadenoma. Intra-operatively, she was found to have a perforated gallbladder with intrahepatic extension. Cholecystectomy with abscess drainage was done, and her post-operative period was uneventful. Gallbladder perforations can have a myriad of presentations. We report a rare case of a perforated gallbladder mimicking a biliary cystadenoma. A high index of suspicion along with prudent decision-making can help in accurate pre-operative diagnosis, thereby avoiding intraoperative surprises and unnecessary morbidity, especially in cases where a benign pathology mimics malignancy. [Arch Clin Exp Surg 2016; 5(2.000): 113-115]

Background Intrahepatic biliary cystadenomas are rare hepatic neoplasms, which are usually cystic. These tumors are often misdiagnosed as simple liver cysts and hydatid cysts clinically and radiologically owing to nonspecific clinical and radiologic features. These tumors require complete resection, as recurrence and malignant transformation can occur following incomplete excision. It is essential that these tumors be diagnosed accurately so that they can be adequately excised. Methods Clinical and radiological features of six cases of biliary cystadenoma are described. Results All of these cases were resected with the clinical and/or radiological impression of simple liver cysts and/or hydatid cysts. Out of the six patients, five were female and one was male. Ages of the patients ranged from 28 to 60 years (mean 45 years). The patients presented with nonspecific symptoms. Internal septations were seen on preoperative imaging (when available). On gross examination, all tumors were cystic; their sizes varied from 5.5 to 14 cm, mean size was 9.0 cm. On histopathologic examination, cystic spaces were lined by cuboidal to columnar mucin-secreting epithelium with underlying ovarian-type stroma. In one case, ovarian-type stroma was not seen. Recurrence was seen in three cases at 1 to 5 years of follow up. Conclusions Owing to their malignant potential and high recurrence rate following incomplete resection, an aggressive surgical approach is recommended. Prognosis is excellent after complete resection.

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.

Focal liver lesions (FLLs) are commonly encountered on routine imaging studies. Most lesions detected are benign, but many are indeterminate at the time of initial imaging. This article reviews the important role of MR imaging for the detection and characterization of various benign FLLs while illustrating typical imaging appearances and potential pitfalls in interpretation. The utility of diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatocyte-specific contrast agents is also discussed.

Background Benign liver tumors are common. They do not spread to other areas of the body, and they usually do not pose a serious health risk. In fact, in most cases, benign liver tumors are not diagnosed because patients are asymptomatic. When they are detected, it’s usually because the person has had medical imaging tests, such as an ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for another condition. Materials and methods A search of the literature was made using cancer literature and the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) database for the following keywords: “hepatic benign tumors”, “hepatic cystic tumors”, “polycystic liver disease”, “liver macroregenerative nodules”, “hepatic mesenchymal hamartoma”, “hepatic angiomyolipoma”, “biliary cystadenoma”, and “nodular regenerative hyperplasia”. Discussion and conclusion Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in some areas of the world; there is an increasing incidence worldwide. Approximately 750,000 new cases are reported per year. More than 75 % of cases occur in the Asia-Pacific region, largely in association with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The incidence of HCC is increasing in the USA and Europe because of the increased incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Unlike the liver HCC, benign tumors are less frequent. However, they represent a chapter always more interesting of liver disease. In fact, a careful differential diagnosis with the forms of malignant tumor is often required in such a way so as to direct the patient to the correct therapy. In conclusion, many of these tumors present with typical features in various imaging studies. On occasions, biopsies are required, and/or surgical removal is needed. In the majority of cases of benign hepatic tumors, no treatment is indicated. The main indication for treatment is the presence of significant clinical symptoms or suspicion of malignancy or fear of malignant transformation.

Biliary cystadenoma is a rare tumor of the biliary tree and a rare cause of obstructive jaundice. Most are intrahepatic, and pure extrahepatic biliary cystadenoma is less common. Cases are more common in women. Unless suspected, diagnosis of extrahepatic biliary cystadenoma is often delayed. Here, we report the case of a young woman with extrahepatic biliary cystadenoma who presented at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital with obstructive jaundice initially thought to be due to a large biliary stone based on the endoscopic cholangiogram image. She was successfully managed with resection of the cystadenoma.

Biliary mucinous cystadenomas (BMC) of the liver are rare benign cystic tumors, however an estimated 20% undergo malignant transformation. They have recently been redefined as mucinous cystic neoplasms in the 2010 WHO classification. The preferred treatment is through radical resection, as there are high recurrence rates with other treatment modalities; however this is often not possible in patients with bilobar or giant cysts, and liver transplantation may be indicated. We present a patient with a giant biliary mucinous cystadenoma of the liver and discuss the management with reference to the literature. A 47 year-old woman presented with a 6-week history of moderate epigastric discomfort on a background of 12 months of symptom-free abdominal distension. A giant cystic bilobar tumor of the liver measuring 22 × 23 × 17 cm was diagnosed and characterised by ultrasound scan and magnetic resonance imaging. Serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase were elevated, though other laboratory data including tumor markers (CEA, aFP, CA19-9) were within normal limits. Total excision of the cyst was not possible due to its size and position, and the patient underwent cyst drainage, a sub-total cyst excision and omentoplasty. Histology confirmed a benign biliary mucinous cystadenoma with an ovarian stroma. Though the patient remained clinically well, routine post-operative computed tomography (CT) surveillance showed an 11 cm recurrent cyst at 6 months. A partial cyst resection with close follow-up, regular CA19-9 serology and ultrasound/CT imaging, may be a reasonable alternative for bilobar or giant cysts. However should any features pathognomonic of malignancy develop, then a liver transplantation is indicated.

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.

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.

We report two cases of biliary cystadenoma with mesenchymal stroma, in which we reached a preoperative diagnosis. There are three characteristics in imaging. First, there is no communication between the tumors and biliary ducts. Second, the wall of the tumor is smooth and septa inside the tumor result in a 'cysts-in-cyst' appearance. Third, papillary projections that are characteristic of the intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the bile duct are rarely seen. We provide characteristic figures that are remarkably helpful for the preoperative diagnosis.

Biliary cystadenomas are rare, benign but potentially malignant, multilocular, cystic neoplasms of a biliary origin. They often present with non-specific symptoms. We present a rare case of an intrahepatic biliary cystadenoma causing luminal obstruction to the bile duct. Case report: A 32-year-old female with obstructive jaundice was evaluated and diagnosed as having a cystic lesion in the liver. With a preoperative differential diagnosis of a hydatid cyst, she underwent laparotomy and enucleation of the lesion. Intraoperatively, the tumor was found to be extending into the bile duct, which was occluding the lumen. This was excised and a bilioenteric anastomosis was done. Her postoperative period was uneventful and she was anicteric on follow-up. Conclusion: Biliary cystadenoma should be considered a differential diagnosis when radiologic imaging studies suggest a multilocular cystic hepatic lesion. Presence of jaundice in such patients should raise the suspicion of an intrabiliary component, the omission of which can lead to avoidable postoperative morbidity. [Arch Clin Exp Surg 2014; 3(4.000): 251-253]