Benign Solid Tumors of the Liver: Management in the Modern Era

Recently, there has been a growing interest in solid benign liver tumors as the understanding of the pathogenesis and molecular underpinning of these lesions continues to evolve. We herein provide an evidence-based review of benign solid liver tumors with particular emphasis on the diagnosis and management of such tumors. A search of all available literature on benign hepatic tumors through a search of the MEDLINE/PubMed electronic database was conducted. New diagnostic and management protocols for benign liver tumors have emerged, as well as new insights into the molecular pathogenesis. In turn, these data have spawned a number of new studies seeking to correlate molecular, clinicopathological, and clinical outcomes for benign liver tumors. In addition, significant advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care have reduced the morbidity and mortality of liver surgery. Despite current data that supports conservative management for many patients with benign liver tumors, patients with severe preoperative symptomatic disease seem to benefit substantially from surgical treatment based on quality of life data. Future studies should seek to further advance our understanding of the underlying pathogenesis and natural history of benign liver tumors in order to provide clinicians with evidence-based guidelines to optimize treatment of patients with these lesions.