Focal fatty change of the liver. A review and a case associated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.
Focal fatty change (FFC) of a liver with unequivocal normal architecture is rare. A review of the literature revealed 39 histologically well-documented cases. Well-known steatogenic conditions were present in most of these cases. Focal ischaemia or a varying rate of mobilization of fat in the liver have been suggested as a cause of the focality of the lesions. FFC occurring in a diabetic patient on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is presented. The FFC in this and in ten previously reported cases associated with CAPD and intraperitoneal insulin therapy had a unique subcapsular distribution, which may suggest a specific pathogenetic mechanism involving insulin. The clinical significance of FFC in the differential diagnosis from other fatty lesions of the liver is summarized.
Grove
A
A
Institute of Pathology Aalborg Hospital, Denmark.
Vyberg
B
B
Vyberg
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000628:therapy; D005234:Fatty Liver / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010531:Peritoneal Dialysis, Continuous Ambulatory / Q000009:adverse effects
D007328:Insulin