Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver: radiologic-pathologic correlation

Abstract

Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver (MHL) is an uncommon cystic mass of infancy that is a developmental anomaly rather than a neoplasm. Fourteen cases of MHL were retrospectively reviewed. Grossly, MHL is a solitary mass with cystic spaces of variable size. Patients are seen initially with painless progressive abdominal enlargement. On plain films, MHL appears as a large, noncalcified mass in the right upper quadrant. Scintigraphy is helpful in confirming its hepatic origin. Ultrasonography and computed tomography demonstrate a large multiloculated mass with considerable variation in the size of septa and cystic spaces. Angiographically, MHL is avascular or hypovascular. Recognition of these radiographic findings allows a correct diagnosis to be made in many cases. With resection, the prognosis is excellent.