Peliosis hepatis. Report of nine cases.

Nine cases of peliosis hepatis are reported: five of these were associated with the administration of androgen or anabolic androgenic steroids and a sixth with large doses of medroxy-progesterone acetate. In five instances, neoplasm was present as an underlying disease. Antemortem evidence of liver disease was detected in six of seven cases but was not severe and had not contributed to death. The pathogenesis of blood-filled cystic cavities is discussed and the literature reviewed. Angiopathy of hepatic sinusoids in patients with wasting diseases or in those receiving androgens in coexistence with passive congestion of the liver appear to be factors in the pathogenesis of pleiosis hepatis.