Hepatic lymphangioma

Hepatic lymphangiomas are a rare benign condition that corresponds to focally dilated lymphatic channels in the liver.

For a general discussion on this topic, please refer to the parental article on lymphatic malformations.

Clinical presentation

Most cases are asymptomatic.

Pathology

A lymphangioma is a benign lesion that can occur at almost any location in the body. Hepatic involvement is less common than seen in other organs .

Multiple septa lesions with thin walls (cuboid or lacunar epithelium) filled with chylous fluid content .

Radiographic features 

Ultrasound

Appear as a hypoechoic cystic lesion and may show occasional internal septation and intralocular echogenic debris. Lymphangiomas composed of tiny lymphatic spaces can present as echogenic lesions due to septal reflections .

Differential diagnosis 

General imaging differential considerations include:

• simple hepatic cyst
• hepatic hydatid cyst
• hepatic abscess
• billiary cysts