Alpha-fetoprotein and focal nodular hyperplasia: An unconventional couple

JGH Open. 2021 Oct 28;5(11):1316-1318. doi: 10.1002/jgh3.12669. eCollection 2021 Nov.

Abstract

We report the case of a 36-year-old patient who was initially managed for gynecomastia. The first biological analyses showed a moderately elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. After an endocrine etiology was excluded, an abdominal computed tomography scan showed typical focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) proven by biopsy and showing expression of AFP in FNH cells. After follow-up for 24 months, the serum AFP and liver radiology remained unchanged. The association between an elevated AFP and FNH is rarely described in the medical literature.

Keywords: hepatology; liver imaging; liver tumors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports