Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma

Am J Gastroenterol. 2009 Oct;104(10):2617-24; quiz 2625. doi: 10.1038/ajg.2009.440. Epub 2009 Jul 28.

Abstract

Fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma (FHLCC) generally occurs in young individuals lacking a background of chronic liver disease and other risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma. The clinical presentations of FLHCC are generally nonspecific, and the alpha-fetoprotein level is typically within the normal range in most cases. Imaging studies have a major role in clinical diagnosis, but pathology is the gold standard in confirming diagnosis. Pathological characteristics of FLHCC include the presence of tumor cells with a deeply eosinophilic cytoplasm and macronucleoli surrounded by abundant fibrous bands. The most effective treatment for FLHCC is aggressive surgical resection. This comprehensive literature review gives a full account of the clinical, pathological, and molecular features of FLHCC.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / genetics
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Liver Neoplasms / genetics
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy
  • Risk Factors