Hepatic cysts of periductal gland origin presenting as obstructive jaundice

Retention cysts may arise from periductal glands of the hepatic ducts. These cysts are usually asymptomatic. Presented here is the first case with jaundice secondary to obstruction of the hepatic ducts by periductal cysts. Two other cases involved asymptomatic cysts in the presence of cirrhosis, portal vein thrombosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. This confirms the previously noted association of cysts and portal vein thrombosis. The possibility of obstruction caused by benign cysts should be considered when investigating patients with intrahepatic bile duct obstruction.