title: Spontaneous perforation of the bile duct.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Spontaneous perforation of the bile ducts is a rare condition in adults. It is commonly secondary to gallstones, and the site of the perforation is nearly always extrahepatic. Intrahepatic perforation has only once been described in the literature to date.
  
  
  METHODS
  We report an unusual presentation of this condition with perforation occurring at an intrahepatic site. The management of perforation and the possible predisposing factors are described.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Adequate management of this problem requires an awareness of its existence and prompt, appropriate investigation to discover the cause and site of perforation.
authors.affiliation: Hepatopancreatobiliary and Transplantation Unit, University College and Royal Free Medical Schools, London, UK.
authors.forename: F M
authors.initials: FM
authors.lastname: Ticehurst
authors.forename: R R
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Hutchins
authors.forename: B R
authors.initials: BR
authors.lastname: Davidson