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Hepatic Hemangioendotheliomas

Hepatic hemangioendotheliomas are benign tumors usually found in infants and children. The tumor, which grows around arteries and veins supporting the liver, doesn't necessarily affect liver function, but can result in death if it leads to congestive heart failure, or if it ruptures. Diuretics and steroids in the first 12 to 18 months of life help to control heart failure until the child is old enough for surgical excision or a liver transplant. Congenital arteriovenous malformations (ATMs), which can lead to congestive heart failure, are thought to catalyze hemangioendothelioma growth. Therefore, a differential diagnosis in infants is warranted.