Kystadenooma

Kystadenooma is a rare, benign tumor that arises from the epithelial lining of the bile ducts within the liver. It is also known as a biliary cystadenoma. These tumors are characterized by the formation of cystic spaces filled with mucinous fluid. While they are not cancerous, they have the potential to grow and cause symptoms by compressing surrounding liver tissue or bile ducts.

The exact cause of kystadenooma is not fully understood, but it is thought to develop from metaplastic changes in the bile duct epithelium. They are more commonly found in middle-aged women. Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor and may include abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, and a palpable mass in the upper abdomen. In some cases, kystadenooma may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during imaging studies for other conditions.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the cystic nature of the lesion and its relationship to the liver and bile ducts. Definitive diagnosis often requires a biopsy, although surgical resection is generally considered the treatment of choice to both confirm the diagnosis and remove the tumor, preventing potential complications. Recurrence after complete surgical removal is uncommon.