Regression of liver cell adenoma. A follow-up study of three consecutive patients after discontinuation of oral contraceptive use.

Three consecutive young female patients with unresected liver cell adenoma and a history of contraceptive use of several years' duration were followed up over a period of 2-4.5 yr after withdrawal of hormonal medication. One patient presented multiple adenomas and in another, the adenoma was associated with a Budd-Chiari syndrome due to bilateral thrombotic hepatic vein occlusion. Complete regression of the adenomas was documented in all 3 patients by ultrasonography, liver radionuclide scan, laparoscopy, or computerized tomography. It is concluded that, in selected cases, conservative management after withdrawal of hormonal contraception may be a valid alternative to surgical therapy.