Multiple bile-duct hamartomas

Abstract

Six cases of multiple bile-duct hamartomas are reported as incidental findings in 875 autopsies (0.69%). All of the patients were Negroes; there were 3 males and 3 females, ranging in age from 46 to 93 years. One patient had associated bilateral congenital polycystic kidney and hemangiomas of the liver. Another patient had associated unilateral congenital cysts of the kidney and a cortical hamartoma of the ipsilateral kidney. Gross and microscopic variations of bile-duct hamartomas are illustrated and their significance is discussed. To avoid possible oversight of the lesions, reexamination of the liver after fixation in 10% neutral formalin is recommended. It is also emphasized that the histology of the lesions may be clear-cut hamartomas or may suggest neoplastic growths. The relationship of bile-duct hamartomas to polycystic disease of the liver is discussed. Its association with congenital hepatic fibrosis and congenital dilatation of the intrahepatic bile ducts is presented.