Morphological aspects of small-duct cholangiopathies: A minireview

Core Tip

Core Tip: A wide range of non-neoplastic and neoplastic conditions affects the small intrahepatic bile ducts. Cholangiopathies account for significant morbidity and mortality and represent an important indication for liver transplantation in adult and paediatric populations. Pathogenesis of most cholangiopathies is complex, and likely involves both environmental and genetic factors. Understanding the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms, knowledge of basic morphological patterns, and an ability to correlate microscopic findings with results obtained by imaging and laboratory methods are important steps in forming an overall clinical picture and selecting the optimal therapeutic approach in patients with biliary diseases. Our minireview addresses some important morphological aspects of small-duct cholangiopathies relevant to the diagnostic process, and also provides a brief overview of the most clinically significant conditions in light of recent progress.