Hepatic malformations: morphogenetic, anatomical and pathological features

ABSTRACT

Hepatic organogenesis is a complex process involving various molecular and cellular determinants. Knowledge of the anatomical and functional structure of the liver and its relationship with other abdominal organs is fundamental from a surgical point of view. Clinical autopsies were performed upon twelve fetal specimens. Photographic footage was reviewed for fetal livers presenting macroscopic abnormalities, and relevant cases were included. A search was conducted employing terms pertaining hepatic malformations’ morphogenetic, anatomical and pathological features. A thorough review was elaborated introducing an updated classification based on autopsy findings and available literature. Twelve fetal specimens underwent clinical autopsies. Gestational age ranged between 18 and 38 weeks (mean 28 weeks). All livers displayed symmetrical lobes. Seven of them presented at least one dysmorphic feature on macroscopic examination. Hepatic malformations can be classified into anomalies due to excessive development, defective development or extrinsic factors. The relevance of the proper identification of liver malformations lies in the broad spectrum of clinical manifestations with different degrees of morbidity associated with them

RESUMEN

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