Etymed
hepatoblastoma
Definition
A malignant tumor derived from immature liver cells
Clinical context
A 1-year-old boy presents with abdominal distension and a large abdominal mass. Imaging reveals a large, heterogeneous mass in the right lobe of the liver with areas of hemorrhage and necrosis. Laboratory studies show elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels. The tumor is resected and histopathology confirms the presence of immature hepatocytes with pleomorphic nuclei and mitotic activity.
Mnemonic
Hepatoblastoma = 'Hepato' (liver) + 'blastoma' (immature cells) - remember it in young children with elevated AFP