A Rare Case of Peliosis Hepatis in Infancy

Abstract

Peliosis hepatis is a rare condition characterized by numerous vascular formations in the liver measuring from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. Such formations may also be found in the spleen, lymph nodes, lungs, kidneys, adrenals, bone marrow and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. The condition is typically asymptomatic and diagnosed accidentally. Rarely, patients present with severe symptoms such as jaundice, hepatomegaly, liver failure and haemoperitoneum. Clinical case:We present the case of a 5 months old infant who presented to her family physician with gastroesophageal reflux. An abdominal ultrasound was performed which showed numerous oval lesions in the liver parenchyma. The patient's physical examination was remarkable for a palpable solid mass localized above the umbilicus. Further imaging and laboratory investigations revealed that the patient was suffering from neuroblastoma with concurrent peliosis hepatis. Conclusion:Peliosis hepatis is typically a benign condition, which may be caused by infectious diseases, malignancy, prolonged intake of medicines or toxins. Treating the underlying disease often leads to resolution of the vascular lesions. This necessitates the formation of a wide differential diagnosis and through investigation.