Inferior vena cava thrombosis : an unusual complication of a large simple non-parasitic liver cyst requiring an integrated approach

Most of the simple hepatic cysts are asymptomatic and have a benign course. However, some exceptional life-threatening complications may occur. We herein report the successful management of a case who suffered from a cystic compression of the inferior vena cava complicated by thrombosis of the inferior vena cava itself. To our knowledge this is the first report of such a complication and diagnostic and therapeutic aspects are discussed. This case is paradigmatic of the possible complexity of the diagnosis and treatment of cystic lesions of the liver and should induce physicians to consider a therapeutic approach if a clear tendency to enlarge can be recognized.