All are true about hepatic adenoma except –
**Question:** All are true about hepatic adenoma except -
A. Hepatic adenoma is a benign tumor of the liver.
B. Hepatic adenoma is a rare condition.
C. Hepatic adenoma is commonly associated with oral contraceptive use.
D. Hepatic adenoma is malignant and can progress to hepatocellular carcinoma.
**Core Concept:**
Hepatic adenoma is a benign tumor originating from the liver cells. It is a type of primary liver tumor that usually develops in women who are or have been using oral contraceptives or other steroid hormones. This benign tumor is generally less common than other liver tumors and liver diseases.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Hepatic adenomas are indeed benign liver tumors, meaning they have a low risk of becoming malignant. However, option D is incorrect because they remain benign and do not progress to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is a malignant liver tumor.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Hepatic adenomas are indeed a common cause of hemoperitoneum, or bleeding into the abdominal cavity, and can rupture, leading to a life-threatening emergency. However, they are not malignant and do not progress to HCC.
B. Although hepatic adenomas are rare, they are not extremely rare as suggested by option B. They are relatively common among women with hormonal factors contributing to their development, such as oral contraceptive use or steroid hormone exposure.
C. While oral contraceptives and steroid hormones are risk factors for hepatic adenoma development, they are not the only cause. Other risk factors include chronic liver disease, pregnancy, and steroid hormone therapy.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact:**
Understanding the risk factors and benign nature of hepatic adenomas is crucial for healthcare professionals dealing with liver diseases. Knowing that they are not malignant helps guide treatment decisions, particularly concerning surveillance, intervention, and patient counseling.