Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver

Abstract

Four cases of mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver in infants, bringing the total number of reported cases to 22, are presented. Patients with this tumor are usually asymptomatic and present with abdominal distention and a palpable abdominal mass. Most of the tumors are in the right lobe of the liver or attached by a stalk to it. Liver function tests are rarely abnormal. Roent-genographically these lesions resemble other liver tumors. One helpful diagnostic point may be the rapid enlargement frequently demonstrated by this cystic tumor. Treatment is surgical removal and the prognosis is good, especially in those attached by a pedicle. Malignant changes are not reported.