Hepatic haemangioma, a Diagnostic Dilemma in a Developing Sub-Saharan Country: A Report of Two Cases

Hepatic haemangioma is an uncommon benign tumour that often presents a diagnostic challenge as it could be mistaken for other focal hepatic lesion. Two cases managed in our facility are presented: Case 1-A 57 years old male with right hypochondrial pain and ultrasonographic finding of large focal hyperechoeic (10 x 9cm) mass. Computerised tomographic scan (CT scan) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were inconclusive but liver biopsy confirmed a cavernous haemangioma. Case 2-A 41 years old male who presented with similar right hypochondrial pain; ultrasound revealed a homogenous focal lesion (4.2 x 4.5cm). Dynamic CT and MRI indicated hepatic haemangioma. Both patients had normal biochemical parameters including tumour markers. The absence of symptoms in a patient withliver mass and normal laboratory findings should raise an index of suspicion of haemangioma. Dynamic imaging is vital where possible and if inconclusive, liver biopsy with histology.Key words: Hepatic, haemangioma, imaging