Hepatic mesenchymal hamartoma masquerading as neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Hepatic mesenchymal hamartoma (HMH) is the second most common benign hepatic tumor in the pediatric age group. The etiology of HMH is unclear. Theories include abnormal hepatic mesenchyme, a reactive change or a proliferative lesion. The condition can present prenatally in USG as a mass, high output cardiac failure, pulmonary hypertension, respiratory distress, and abdominal distension or mass in older children. We present this case to discuss an extremely rare presentation of a comparatively rare disease and to emphasise the need for a high index of suspicion even if the patient presents with symptoms common for that age. Case presentation A 7-day-old male baby with an uneventful antenatal period, born by vaginal delivery, with a birth weight of 3.1 kg and normal APGAR scores, presented with jaundice, poor feeding, and labored breathing noticed on the same day itself. Examination revealed a grossly distended abdomen with a mass of size 8 × 7 cm occupying the right side down to the right iliac fossa, crossing midline and dullness continuous with liver dullness. On investigation an abnormal liver function test with unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia was seen. USG and CECT abdomen were suggestive of HMH with close proximity to hepatic vessels. Exploratory laparotomy and near total excision with marsupialisation was done. Histopathology report was suggestive of HMH. A 2-year follow-up was normal. Conclusion This case of HMH presented as neonatal jaundice with unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia which is a rarity. We had to limit our surgery to near total excision and marsupialisation due to its proximity to vascular structures.