Epithelial cyst of the spleen with foci of ectopic liver.
Epithelial cysts account for about 20% of all splenic cysts. Their pathogenesis is unclear, and different authors have proposed many hypotheses. It has been suggested that they are derived from embryonal epithelial inclusions during splenic development, from invagination of capsular surface mesothelium in splenic sulci with subsequent metaplasia, or from trauma. Moreover, a congenital, genetic, or teratomatous origin has also been hypothesized. We describe an unusual case of epithelial splenic cyst with mature liver foci in its wall. This finding supports its possible dysontogenetic origin.
Institute of Pathological Anatomy and Histology, University of Perugia, Italy. rachele.delsordo@gmail.com
Rachele
R
Del Sordo
Guido
G
Bellezza
Renato
R
Colella
Maria Grazia
MG
Mameli
Michele
M
Giansanti
Antonio
A
Cavaliere
D000293:Adolescent; D002828:Choristoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology*; D004814:Epidermal Cyst / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver; D008297:Male; D008679:Metaplasia / Q000473:pathology; D013154:Spleen / Q000473:pathology; D013158:Splenic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology*