Peliosis hepatis (PH) is a rare pathological entity. PH varies from minimal asymptomatic lesions to larger massive lesions that may present with cholestasis, liver failure, portal hypertension, avascular mass lesion, or even spontaneous rupture.
A research article to be published on November 21, 2009 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology addresses this question. The research team from Inha University School of Medicine reported a case of a 20-year-old male patient with aplastic anemia who presented with hemoperitoneum. This patient had received long-term treatment with oxymetholone, and his imaging findings and extraphysiological changes were consistent with spontaneous hepatic rupture with PH. The patient was salvaged from a life-threatening hemorrhage by performing a right hemihepatectomy.
The researchers drew a conclusion that PH should be kept in mind by clinicians for patients with risk factors. Although spontaneous regression of PH can occur in some patients, timely recognition and early treatment are essential to prevent life-threatening complications from the disease.
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