Giant Hepatic Hemangioma Regressed Significantly Without Surgical Management: A Case Report and Literature Review

Hepatic hemangioma (HH) is a congenital vascular anomaly comprising networks of abnormal blood and/or lymphatic vessels with endothelial cell proliferation. Their pathophysiology is not fully understood, and no specific drug is available to treat them. Conservative management, which limits observation, is preferred for most patients. A HH larger than 4 cm is considered a giant HH that may be treated using surgery ranging from embolization to hepatic resection or liver transplantation. Here, we describe a case with multiple and giant HHs that regressed significantly after treatment with azithromycin (AZM). A systematic literature review of HH and the effects of AZM on angiogenesis was then conducted.

Outcomes of surgery for giant hepatic hemangioma

Background The surgical indications for liver hemangioma remain unclear. Methods Data from 152 patients with hepatic hemangioma who underwent hepatectomy between 2004 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. We analyzed characteristics including tumor size, surgical parameters, and variables associated with Kasabach–Merritt syndrome and compared the outcomes of laparoscopic and open hepatectomy. Here, we describe surgical techniques for giant hepatic hemangioma and report on two meaningful cases. Results Most (63.8%) patients with hepatic hemangioma were asymptomatic. Most (86.4%) tumors from patients with Kasabach–Merritt syndrome were larger than 15 cm. Enucleation (30.9%), sectionectomy (28.9%), hemihepatectomy (25.7%), and the removal of more than half of the liver (14.5%) were performed through open (87.5%) and laparoscopic (12.5%) approaches. Laparoscopic hepatectomy is associated with an operative time, estimated blood loss, and major morbidity and mortality rate similar to those of open hepatectomy, but a shorter length of stay. 3D image reconstruction is an alternative for diagnosis and surgical planning for partial hepatectomy. Conclusion The main indication for surgery is giant (> 10 cm) liver hemangioma, with or without symptoms. Laparoscopic hepatectomy was an effective option for hepatic hemangioma treatment. For extremely giant hemangiomas, 3D image reconstruction was indispensable. Hepatectomy should be performed by experienced hepatic surgeons.

A Case Report on Neonatal Giant Hepatic Hemangioma

Introduction: Hepatic hemangioma is the third most common pediatric tumor, and it is rare in the neonatal period. Because of its rarity, a treatment strategy for this disease is still being established. Patient and Methods: A neonate girl was referred to our unit for hepatomegaly. She had a very high Alpha-fetoproteins, and the abdominal scan showed a large mass with no vascular invasion nor deep lymphadenopathy. She was diagnosed with hepatic hemangioma and treated successfully with propranolol and cortisone. After 17 months of treatment, the patient’s hepatomegaly was reduced by 97.3%. Results: Report on successful treatment, with no side effects, for hepatic hemangioma with propranolol and cortisone associated with calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. Conclusion: The patient’s large focal hepatic hemangioma was treated successfully with propranolol. The treatment included cortisone for one month, associated with calcium, potassium, and vitamin D.

Outcomes of Surgery for Giant Hepatic Hemangioma

Background: The surgical indications for liver hemangioma remain unclear. Methods: Data from 152 patients with hepatic hemangioma who underwent hepatectomy between 2004 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. We analyzed characteristics including tumor size, surgical parameters, and variables associated with Kasabach–Merritt syndrome and compared the outcomes of laparoscopic and open hepatectomy. Here, we describe surgical techniques for giant hepatic hemangioma and report on two meaningful cases. Results: Most (63.8%) patients with hepatic hemangioma were asymptomatic. Most (86.4%) tumors from patients with Kasabach–Merritt syndrome were larger than 15 cm. Enucleation (30.9%), sectionectomy (28.9%), hemihepatectomy (25.7%), and the removal of more than half of the liver (14.5%) were performed through open (87.5%) and laparoscopic (12.5%) approaches. Laparoscopic hepatectomy is associated with an operative time, estimated blood loss, and major morbidity and mortality rate similar to those of open hepatectomy, but a shorter length of stay. 3D image reconstruction is an alternative for diagnosis and surgical planning for partial hepatectomy. Conclusion: The main indication for surgery is giant (>10 cm) liver hemangioma, with or without symptoms. Laparoscopic hepatectomy was an effective option for hepatic hemangioma treatment. For extremely giant hemangiomas, 3D image reconstruction was indispensable. Hepatectomy should be performed by experienced hepatic surgeons.