# The Hepatic Imposter: Solitary Necrotic Nodules Masquerading as Hepatic Metastasis

**Authors:** Mohamed A Ebrahim, Eli A Zaher, Parth Patel, Omar Al Salman, Konrad Stelmark

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59154 · Cureus · 2024-04-27

## TL;DR

A rare liver condition called solitary necrotic nodule was mistaken for cancer, highlighting the need for careful diagnosis to avoid unnecessary surgery.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the diagnostic challenge of solitary necrotic nodules and emphasizes the role of biopsy in accurate diagnosis.

## Key findings

- Solitary necrotic nodules can mimic metastatic tumors on imaging.
- Needle biopsy confirmed the absence of malignancy in the reported case.

## Abstract

Solitary necrotic nodules in the liver present a diagnostic challenge due to their rarity and resemblance to metastatic tumors. We report a case where imaging revealed multiple hepatic lesions suggestive of malignancy, prompting a needle biopsy. Histopathology confirmed necrosis without malignancy. Despite advancements in imaging modalities, distinguishing solitary necrotic nodules from metastases remains difficult. Recognition of characteristic imaging features and consideration of biopsy are crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. This case underscores the importance of thorough evaluation and differential diagnosis in liver lesions to prevent unnecessary surgical interventions and ensure appropriate clinical care.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** malignancy (MONDO:0004992)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Hepatic Metastasis (MESH:D009362), hepatic lesions (MESH:D056486), Necrotic Nodules (MESH:D016606), malignancy (MESH:D009369), liver lesions (MESH:D008107), necrosis (MESH:D009336)

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

8 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11129603/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11129603