Accessory lobe of liver

An accessory lobe of the liver is an uncommon anatomical variation where an additional lobe of liver tissue is present outside the normal anatomical confines of the liver.

This condition is generally asymptomatic and is often discovered incidentally during imaging studies for other conditions.

The accessory lobe is connected to the main liver by a stalk of tissue called a pedicle, which may contain hepatic artery branches, portal vein branches, and bile ducts.

While typically benign, the accessory lobe can sometimes cause medical issues if it becomes twisted, a condition known as torsion, leading to vascular compromise and potential tissue necrosis.

This can cause abdominal pain and require surgical intervention.

Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs of the abdomen can be used to detect an accessory lobe.

These scans provide detailed visualization of liver anatomy, helping differentiate accessory lobes from other masses or lesions.

Understanding the presence of an accessory lobe is important during surgical planning to avoid complications.

It highlights the diversity of human anatomy and the importance of personalized medical evaluations.