Hepatocellular adenoma CT

The CT scan findings of hepatocellular adenoma are usually variable and characteristic lesions are best seen with multiphase helical CT scanning. The CT scan findings include non-lobulated and well-marginated mass that can be encapsulated and is rarely calcified. A heterogeneous hypo-attenuating area within the tumor may be seen in cases of necrosis or old hemorrhage. Large hepatocellular adenomas may be more heterogeneous than smaller lesions and their CT scan appearance is less specific.

• The CT scan findings of hepatocellular adenoma are usually variable.^[1]
• Classical characteristic lesions of adenoma are best seen with multi-phase helical CT scan.
• The CT scan findings of hepatocellular adenoma include the following:^{[2][3][4][5][6]}
  • Non-lobulated and well-marginated mass that can be encapsulated and is rarely calcified.
  • Homogeneous enhancement in the arterial phase.
  • The homogeneous enhancement is usually isoattenuating but sometimes mildly hypo-attenuating relative to normal liver on unenhanced portal venous phase and delayed phase images.
  • Presence of intratumoral fat can reveal a hypoattenuating mass, if it is surrounded by a fatty liver it appears hyperattenuating on all contrast phases and unenhanced images.
  • A heterogeneous, hypo-attenuating area within the tumor is seen in cases of necrosis or old hemorrhage.
  • Large hepatocellular adenomas may be more heterogeneous than smaller lesions and their CT scan appearance is less specific.

Template:WikiDoc Sources