Focal Nodular Hyperplasia of the Liver and Elevated α Fetoprotein Level in an Infant With Isolated Hemihyperplasia

Abstract

A case of focal nodular hyperplasia of the liver in a 43-day-old baby girl with isolated hemihyperplasia and elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein is presented. The child referred to our hospital with bilateral renal masses detected by prenatal and postnatal ultrasonography. A mass lesion was detected in segment 6 of liver and was diagnosed as focal nodular hyperplasia. We present this case to emphasize the presence of focal nodular hyperplasia in a patient with isolated hemihypertrophy and elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein level.

Elevated alpha-fetoprotein in benign/borderline liver masses in children

“…[7] In the literature, high AFP levels in different benign liver masses have been reported. [2][3][4] Sari et al [2] reported elevated AFP levels in a 15-dayold boy with hemangioendothelioma. In this case, initial AFP level was 650 ng/mL (normal range for his age 88±87 ng/mL).…”

“…The pathologic examination of the specimen revealed mesenchymal hamartoma. [3] The other case was focal nodular hyperplasia of the liver and elevated AFP level in an infant with isolated hemihyperplasia which was reported by Demir et al [4] Herein, we aimed to evaluate the elevated AFP levels in benign/borderline liver masses in this study. There were three boys and two girls with a median age of 6 months (range 1-12 months) at the time that the liver mass was diagnosed.…”

“…[1] Mildly high AFP levels can be seen in some benign liver masses including mesenchymal hamartoma, hepatic hemangioendothelioma and focal nodular hyperplasia of the liver. [2][3][4] The aim of this study was to evaluate the elevated AFP in benign liver masses.…”