Published online Jan 16, 2024. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i2.367
Peer-review started: September 7, 2023
First decision: November 20, 2023
Revised: November 28, 2023
Accepted: December 26, 2023
Article in press: December 26, 2023
Published online: January 16, 2024
Intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct (IPNBs) are rare and characterized by papillary growth within the bile duct lumen. IPNB is similar to obstructive biliary pathology. In this report, we present an unexpected case of asymptomatic IPNB and consolidate our findings with the relevant literature to augment our understanding of this condition. Integrating relevant literature contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the disease.
A 66-year-old Chinese male patient was admitted to our hospital for surgical intervention after gallstones were discovered during a routine physical examination. Preoperative imaging revealed a lesion on the left side of the liver, which raised the suspicion of IPNB. A laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy was performed, and subsequent histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of IPNB. At the 3-mo postoperative follow-up, the patient reported good recovery and no metastasis. IPNB can manifest both latently and asymptomatically. Radical surgical resection is the most effective treatment for IPNB.
Hepatic and biliary masses, should be considered to diagnose IPNB. Prompt surgery and vigilant follow-up are crucial in determining prognosis.
Core Tip: Intraductal papillary neoplasms are relatively uncommon in clinical practice, often eluding detection by clinicians owing to the inadequacy of conventional imaging tests such as abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography, to identify and diagnose tumors. In the present case, the patient was asymptomatic. However, if the tumor was not detected and resected promptly, the patient could have lost the opportunity for surgical intervention when developing relevant biliary symptoms. Early detection and surgical intervention hold promise for a positive prognosis. Clinicians must further enhance their understanding of the clinical attributes and imaging indications to prevent missed diagnoses.