Ultrasonography of liver tumors

Ultrasonography techniques for liver tumors

Ultrasonography of liver tumors is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique used to evaluate and characterize liver lesions. It plays a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and management of liver tumors, including benign and malignant types.

Overview

Ultrasonography, commonly known as ultrasound, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the liver and its structures. It is a preferred initial imaging modality due to its availability, lack of ionizing radiation, and ability to provide real-time imaging.

Types of Liver Tumors

Liver tumors can be broadly classified into benign and malignant categories.

Benign Liver Tumors

Hepatic Hemangioma

Ultrasonography of a hepatic hemangioma

Hepatic hemangiomas are the most common benign liver tumors. They are often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during imaging for other conditions. On ultrasound, they typically appear as well-defined, hyperechoic lesions.

Focal Nodular Hyperplasia (FNH)

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of focal nodular hyperplasia

FNH is a benign liver lesion characterized by a central scar and hyperplastic nodules. It is often detected in young women and appears as a well-circumscribed lesion on ultrasound.

Liver Cysts

Ultrasonography of a liver cyst

Simple liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are usually benign and asymptomatic. They appear as anechoic (dark) areas on ultrasound with well-defined borders.

Hydatid Cysts

Ultrasonography of a hydatid liver cyst

Hydatid cysts are caused by the parasitic infection Echinococcus. On ultrasound, they may show a "water lily" sign or daughter cysts within the main cyst.

Malignant Liver Tumors

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of encephaloid hepatocellular carcinoma

HCC is the most common primary malignant liver tumor. It often arises in the setting of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. On ultrasound, HCC may appear as a hypoechoic or hyperechoic mass, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound can help in further characterization.

Metastatic Liver Disease

Metastatic tumors are the most common malignant lesions found in the liver, originating from primary cancers elsewhere in the body, such as the colon, breast, or lung. Ultrasound can detect these lesions, which often appear as multiple hypoechoic masses.

Ultrasound Techniques

Conventional Ultrasound

Conventional ultrasound is the initial step in evaluating liver lesions. It provides information on the size, shape, and echogenicity of the tumor.

Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS)

CEUS involves the use of contrast agents to enhance the ultrasound images. It improves the characterization of liver lesions by highlighting vascular patterns, which can help differentiate between benign and malignant tumors.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of hepatic hemangioma

Advantages and Limitations

Ultrasonography is advantageous due to its safety, cost-effectiveness, and ability to provide real-time imaging. However, it is operator-dependent and may have limitations in obese patients or those with excessive bowel gas.

Related Pages

• Liver cancer
• Hepatology
• Medical imaging
• Radiology