Hepatocellular adenoma: Review of contemporary diagnostic and therapeutic options

Abstract

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a rare benign lesion most often seen in young women with a history of oral contraceptive use. It is typically a solitary lesion located in the right hepatic lobe although multiple lesions have been reported. Diagnosis of HCA is important for prompt treatment because of risk of hemorrhage and malignant transformation. Adenomas are not specifically diagnosed at ultrasonography, and further evaluation with computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging is required to differentiate from other hepatic lesions such as focal nodular hyperplasia. The gold standard for diagnosis is excision biopsy. Better understanding of clinical history and imaging appearance is important to avoid misdiagnosis and facilitate effective treatment.