Obstructive jaundice from benign, nonparasitic hepatic cysts: identification of risk factors and percutaneous aspiration for diagnosis and treatment.

Obstructive jaundice due to benign, nonparasitic hepatic cysts is rare, with only 11 previously reported cases. We report a case in which relief of jaundice was obtained by percutaneous cyst aspiration. For the elderly, infirm, or high-risk patient, percutaneous aspiration is recommended to relieve obstructive jaundice. Immense size and porta hepatis proximity are major risk factors for developing jaundice from simple hepatic cysts. Abdominal pain of recent onset and rising alkaline phosphatase are warning signs that this complication is developing. In these situations, treatment prior to developing jaundice is recommended.