Biochemical and cytologic analysis of cystic contents in benign non-parasitic symptomatic hepatic cysts before and after ethanol sclerotherapy.

PURPOSE: To examine the fluid of liver cysts by cytologic and biochemical analysis before and after ethanol sclerotherapy in order to explore the etiology of cystic fluid reproduction after sclerotherapy.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

The contents of 11 cysts in 11 patients were examined on the day of sclerotherapy, and 2-8 (mean 4.5) days later, and analysed for cytologic and biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

Cytologic signs of acute or subacute inflammatory reaction were absent before and present in all cysts after sclerotherapy. Biochemical parameters reflecting the acute inflammatory reaction (CRP, orosomucoid and haptoglobine), changes in capillary permeability (protein, albumin), and the cystic epithelial function (bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase) were significantly elevated after sclerotherapy.

CONCLUSION

The post-sclerotherapy fluid production is probably due to an inflammatory reaction. This may explain the success of performing sclerotherapy in one single session.