[Hepar lobatum carcinomatusum: a rare cause of portal hypertension complicating hepatic metastases in breast cancer]

Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2008 Aug-Sep;32(8-9):740-4. doi: 10.1016/j.gcb.2008.06.003. Epub 2008 Sep 5.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Hepar lobatum carcinomatosum is an acquired liver dysmorphy associated with liver metastases of carcinoma, usually breast carcinoma. It may cause portal hypertension. The pathogenesis of this condition appears to be related to multifocal occlusion of intrahepatic branches of the portal vein by neoplasic thrombi and desmoplastic changes. The prognosis is poor despite apparent tumor regression on imaging. We report a case of variceal bleeding revealing a hepar lobatum carcinomatosum. Magnetic resonance imaging supported this diagnosis which was suspected in the clinical context.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / complications*
  • Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast / secondary*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Portal / etiology*
  • Liver Neoplasms / complications*
  • Liver Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Middle Aged