Imaging diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with differentiation from other pathology

Clin Liver Dis. 2005 May;9(2):253-79. doi: 10.1016/j.cld.2004.12.010.

Abstract

Recent advances in liver imaging techniques and better understanding of imaging findings have facilitated the detection and characterization of hepatocellular nodules in a cirrhotic liver. It is important to recognize that various types of benign nodules and pseudolesions are identified on all imaging scans performed for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. An accurate differentiation between them is critical for adequate management of cirrhotic patients. Unfortunately, any of the imaging tests and even percutaneous biopsy are not diagnostic for borderline lesions. Intimate collaboration of hepatologists, pathologists, surgeons, and radiologists with reasonable imaging and clinical criteria estimating the degree of malignancy is imperative.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy, Needle
  • Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / diagnosis*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness / pathology*
  • Radiographic Image Enhancement*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Ultrasonography, Doppler / methods