Molecular pathogenesis of hepatic adenomas and its implications for surgical management.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatic adenomas (HAs) are benign tumors of the liver, which can be solitary or multiple, and have a definite risk of malignant degeneration.

DISCUSSION: The pathogenesis and natural history of this disease entity were previously unknown. Recent research into the molecular pathogenesis of this condition has provided evidence for the malignant transformation of some of these adenomas. In the current article, we discuss the current evidence on the molecular biology underlying malignant transformation of hepatic adenomas and the implications for the surgical management of this disease.