When laparoscopic liver resection is preferred to liver biopsy - a case of a neuroendocrine metastase

Abstract

Background: Liver tumors can sometimes be a difficult diagnostic. Without specific imagistic findings and with negative tumor markers,. Methods: We present the case of a 63years old man who presented with a liver tumor in segment 2 with no specific findings on MRI and negative tumor markers. Colonoscopy and upper GI endoscopy were negative for any lesions. A laparoscopic liver resection was performed - segment 2-3 resection with a smooth postoperative course. The pathology result was a neuroendocrine tumor metastases. Results: Two month after the operation the gastroscopy was repeated and a small tumor was endoscopically excised from the gastric antrum. The pathology result was a gastrointestinal non-secretant neuroendocrine tumor. Conclusion: Due to an increase in the expertise in laparoscopic liver resections, a minimally invasive hepatectomy was the first step in this case.