International Research Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Biliary hamartomas, known as von Meyenburg complexes (VMCs), are benign liver malformations. They are histologically characterized by cystic dilated bile ducts surrounded by numerous fibrous stromal elements measuring up to 5 mm in diameter. Incidental detection of VMCs by autopsy is difficult. Detection of VMCs by imaging is also difficult because of their asymptomatic nature and small size and also the rarity. Moreover, they are easily confused with metastatic diseases of the liver, especially on imaging.

A 39-year-old man presented to our hospital with a 6-month history of recurrent nonspecific abdominal pain. Abdominal ultrasonography (US) revealed multiple cystic lesions in the liver. The diagnosis of metastases was suggested. However, the final diagnosis of VMCs was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography.

This case report highlights the routine differential diagnosis of biliary hamartomas by magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography.