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Maung ST, Tanpowpong N, Satja M, Treeprasertsuk S, Chaiteerakij R. MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma and the role of abbreviated MRI for surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024. [PMID: 38899804 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes the majority of liver cancers and significantly impacts global cancer mortality. While ultrasound (US) with or without alpha-fetoprotein is the mainstay for HCC surveillance, its limitations highlight the necessity for more effective surveillance tools. Therefore, this review explores evolving imaging modalities and abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (AMRI) protocols as promising alternatives, addressing challenges in HCC surveillance. AREAS COVERED This comprehensive review delves into the evaluation and challenges of HCC surveillance tools, focusing on non-contrast abbreviated MRI (NC-AMRI) and contrast-enhanced abbreviated MRI protocols. It covers the implementation of AMRI for HCC surveillance, patient preferences, adherence, and strategies for optimizing cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the article provides insights into prospects for HCC surveillance by summarizing meta-analyses, prospective studies, and ongoing clinical trials evaluating AMRI protocols. EXPERT OPINION The opinions underscore the transformative impact of AMRI on HCC surveillance, especially in overcoming US limitations. Promising results from NC-AMRI protocols indicate its potential for high-risk patient surveillance, though prospective studies in true surveillance settings are essential for validation. Future research should prioritize risk-stratified AMRI protocols and address cost-effectiveness for broader clinical implementation, alongside comparative analyses with US for optimal surveillance strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soe Thiha Maung
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Ma Har Myaing Hospital, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Natthaporn Tanpowpong
- Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Minchanat Satja
- Division of Diagnostic Radiology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sombat Treeprasertsuk
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Roongruedee Chaiteerakij
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Ronot M, Nahon P, Rimola J. Screening of liver cancer with abbreviated MRI. Hepatology 2023; 78:670-686. [PMID: 36896975 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Current recommendations for the surveillance of HCC are based on the semiannual liver ultrasound (with or without serum alpha-fetoprotein) in patients with cirrhosis and in subgroups with chronic hepatitis B infection. However, the sensitivity of this strategy is suboptimal for the detection of early-stage tumors, especially in obese patients, due to interoperator variability and poor adherence. The detection rate of focal liver lesions is excellent with MRI, making it the best alternative candidate for surveillance. However, performing a full contrast-enhanced MRI is unrealistic because of limited availability and health economics. Abbreviated MRI (AMRI) corresponds to the acquisition of a limited number of sequences with a high detection rate. The theoretical benefits of AMRI are a reduced acquisition time (≤10 min) with improved time-effectiveness and cost-effectiveness compared with conventional MRI, and greater accuracy than ultrasound. Numerous protocols may be performed, including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and DWI sequences, with or without contrast administration. Although published studies report promising per-patient results, they should be interpreted with caution. Indeed, most studies were simulated, retrospectively reviewing a subset of sequences in relatively small populations who underwent a full MRI. They also included groups that were not representative of screening populations. In addition, most were published by Asian groups, with at-risk populations that were different from Western populations. There are no existing longitudinal studies that directly compare the different AMRI approaches or AMRI to ultrasound. Finally, it is possible that 1 approach will not fit all patients and that strategies should be tailored to the risk of HCC, in particular in relation to the cost and availability of AMRI. Several trials are ongoing to evaluate these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Ronot
- Department of Radiology, Hopital Beaujon, APHP.Nord, Clichy, France
- Université Paris Paris, CRI, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Nahon
- AP-HP, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Seine Saint-Denis, APHP, Liver Unit, Bobigny
- Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, F-93000 Bobigny
- Inserm, UMR-1138 « Functional Genomics of solid tumors », Centre de recherche des Cordeliers, Université de Paris, Paris
| | - Jordi Rimola
- BCLC group, Radiology Department, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Spain
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Kamal O, Sy E, Chernyak V, Gupta A, Yaghmai V, Fowler K, Karampinos D, Shanbhogue K, Miller FH, Kambadakone A, Fung A. Optional MRI sequences for LI-RADS: why, what, and how? Abdom Radiol (NY) 2023; 48:519-531. [PMID: 36348024 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-022-03726-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the liver worldwide. Noninvasive diagnosis of HCC is possible based on imaging features, without the need for tissue diagnosis. Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) CT/MRI diagnostic algorithm allows for standardized radiological interpretation and reporting of imaging studies for patients at high risk for HCC. Diagnostic categories of LR-1 to LR-5 designate each liver observation to reflect the probability of overall malignancy, HCC, or benignity based on imaging features, where LR-5 category has > 95% probability of HCC. Optimal imaging protocol and scanning technique as described by the technical recommendations for LI-RADS are essential for the depiction of features to accurately characterize liver observations. The LI-RADS MRI technical guidelines recommend the minimum required sequences of T1-weighted out-of-phase and in-phase Imaging, T2-weighted Imaging, and multiphase T1-weighted Imaging. Additional sequences, including diffusion-weighted imaging, subtraction imaging, and the hepatobiliary phase when using gadobenate dimeglumine as contrast, improve diagnostic confidence, but are not required by the guidelines. These optional sequences can help differentiate true lesions from pseudolesions, detect additional observations, identify parenchymal observations when other sequences are suboptimal, and improve observations conspicuity. This manuscript reviews the optional sequences, the advantages they offer, and discusses technical optimization of these sequences to obtain the highest image quality and to avoid common artifacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Kamal
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA. .,Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oregon Health & Science University, L340, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Ethan Sy
- A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, Mesa, AZ, USA
| | | | - Ayushi Gupta
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | | | | | - Frank H Miller
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Alice Fung
- Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Altinmakas E, Taouli B. Abbreviated Liver Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocols and Applications. Radiol Clin North Am 2022; 60:695-703. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcl.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Nadarevic T, Colli A, Giljaca V, Fraquelli M, Casazza G, Manzotti C, Štimac D, Miletic D. Magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in adults with chronic liver disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 5:CD014798. [PMID: 35521901 PMCID: PMC9074390 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014798.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma occurs mostly in people with chronic liver disease and ranks sixth in terms of global incidence of cancer, and third in terms of cancer deaths. In clinical practice, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used as a second-line diagnostic imaging modality to confirm the presence of focal liver lesions suspected as hepatocellular carcinoma on prior diagnostic test such as abdominal ultrasound or alpha-fetoprotein, or both, either in surveillance programmes or in clinical settings. According to current guidelines, a single contrast-enhanced imaging study (computed tomography (CT) or MRI) showing typical hallmarks of hepatocellular carcinoma in people with cirrhosis is considered valid to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma. The detection of hepatocellular carcinoma amenable to surgical resection could improve the prognosis. However, a significant number of hepatocellular carcinomas do not show typical hallmarks on imaging modalities, and hepatocellular carcinoma may, therefore, be missed. There is no clear evidence of the benefit of surveillance programmes in terms of overall survival: the conflicting results can be a consequence of inaccurate detection, ineffective treatment, or both. Assessing the diagnostic accuracy of MRI may clarify whether the absence of benefit could be related to underdiagnosis. Furthermore, an assessment of the accuracy of MRI in people with chronic liver disease who are not included in surveillance programmes is needed for either ruling out or diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma. OBJECTIVES Primary: to assess the diagnostic accuracy of MRI for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma of any size and at any stage in adults with chronic liver disease. Secondary: to assess the diagnostic accuracy of MRI for the diagnosis of resectable hepatocellular carcinoma in adults with chronic liver disease, and to identify potential sources of heterogeneity in the results. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register, the Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Diagnostic Test of Accuracy Studies Register, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, and three other databases to 9 November 2021. We manually searched articles retrieved, contacted experts, handsearched abstract books from meetings held during the last 10 years, and searched for literature in OpenGrey (9 November 2021). Further information was requested by e-mails, but no additional information was provided. No data was obtained through correspondence with investigators. We applied no language or document-type restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Studies assessing the diagnostic accuracy of MRI for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in adults with chronic liver disease, with cross-sectional designs, using one of the acceptable reference standards, such as pathology of the explanted liver and histology of resected or biopsied focal liver lesion with at least a six-month follow-up. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS At least two review authors independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias and applicability concerns, using the QUADAS-2 checklist. We presented the results of sensitivity and specificity, using paired forest plots, and we tabulated the results. We used a hierarchical meta-analysis model where appropriate. We presented uncertainty of the accuracy estimates using 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We double-checked all data extractions and analyses. MAIN RESULTS We included 34 studies, with 4841 participants. We judged all studies to be at high risk of bias in at least one domain because most studies used different reference standards, often inappropriate to exclude the presence of the target condition, and the time interval between the index test and the reference standard was rarely defined. Regarding applicability, we judged 15% (5/34) of studies to be at low concern and 85% (29/34) of studies to be at high concern mostly owing to characteristics of the participants, most of whom were on waiting lists for orthotopic liver transplantation, and due to pathology of the explanted liver being the only reference standard. MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma of any size and stage: sensitivity 84.4% (95% CI 80.1% to 87.9%) and specificity 93.8% (95% CI 90.1% to 96.1%) (34 studies, 4841 participants; low-certainty evidence). MRI for resectable hepatocellular carcinoma: sensitivity 84.3% (95% CI 77.6% to 89.3%) and specificity 92.9% (95% CI 88.3% to 95.9%) (16 studies, 2150 participants; low-certainty evidence). The observed heterogeneity in the results remains mostly unexplained. The sensitivity analyses, which included only studies with clearly prespecified positivity criteria and only studies in which the reference standard results were interpreted without knowledge of the results of the index test, showed no variation in the results. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found that using MRI as a second-line imaging modality to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma of any size and stage, 16% of people with hepatocellular carcinoma would be missed, and 6% of people without hepatocellular carcinoma would be unnecessarily treated. For resectable hepatocellular carcinoma, we found that 16% of people with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma would improperly not be resected, while 7% of people without hepatocellular carcinoma would undergo inappropriate surgery. The uncertainty resulting from the high risk of bias in the included studies and concerns regarding their applicability limit our ability to confidently draw conclusions based on our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin Nadarevic
- Department of Radiology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Agostino Colli
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Haematology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Vanja Giljaca
- Department of Gastroenterology, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mirella Fraquelli
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca´ Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Casazza
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "L. Sacco", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Manzotti
- Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca´ Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Davor Štimac
- Department of Gastroenterology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Damir Miletic
- Department of Radiology , Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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Chan MV, Huo YR, Trieu N, Mitchelle A, George J, He E, Lee AU, Chang J, Yang J. Noncontrast MRI for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Detection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis - A Potential Surveillance Tool? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:44-56.e2. [PMID: 33662596 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS This meta-analysis investigates the diagnostic performance of non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS A systematic review was performed to May 2020 for studies which examined the diagnostic performance of non-contrast MRI (multi-sequence or diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)- alone) for HCC detection in high risk patients. The primary outcome was accuracy for the detection of HCC. Random effects models were used to pool outcomes for sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (LR) and negative LR. Subgroup analyses for cirrhosis and size of the lesion were performed. RESULTS Twenty-two studies were included involving 1685 patients for per-patient analysis and 2128 lesions for per-lesion analysis. Multi-sequence non-contrast MRI (NC-MRI) using T2+DWI±T1 sequences had a pooled per-patient sensitivity of 86.8% (95%CI:83.9-89.4%), specificity of 90.3% (95%CI:87.3-92.7%), and negative LR of 0.17 (95%CI:0.14-0.20). DWI-only MRI (DW-MRI) had a pooled sensitivity of 79.2% (95%CI:71.8-85.4%), specificity of 96.5% (95%CI:94.3-98.1%) and negative LR of 0.24 (95%CI:1.62-0.34). In patients with cirrhosis, NC-MRI had a pooled per-patient sensitivity of 87.3% (95%CI:82.7-91.0%) and specificity of 81.6% (95%CI:75.3-86.8%), whilst DWI-MRI had a pooled sensitivity of 71.4% (95%CI:60.5-80.8%) and specificity of 97.1% (95%CI:91.9-99.4%). For lesions <2 cm, the pooled per-lesion sensitivity was 77.1% (95%CI:73.8-80.2%). For lesions >2 cm, pooled per-lesion sensitivity was 88.5% (95%CI:85.0-91.5%). CONCLUSION Non-contrast MRI has a moderate negative LR and high specificity with acceptable sensitivity for the detection of HCC, even in patients with cirrhosis and with lesions <2 cm. Prospective trials to validate if non-contrast MRI can be used for HCC surveillance is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Vinchill Chan
- Department of Radiology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Concord Hospital Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ya Ruth Huo
- Department of Radiology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Concord Hospital Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nelson Trieu
- Department of Radiology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Concord Hospital Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amer Mitchelle
- Department of Radiology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research and Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily He
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alice Unah Lee
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeff Chang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jessica Yang
- Department of Radiology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia; Concord Hospital Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Abstract
MR imaging has become a powerful tool for assessing liver disease and liver cancer; however, it entails complex, time-consuming, and costly protocols. Abbreviated MR imaging (AMRI) is emerging as a simpler, faster, and low-cost alternative to full-abdominal MR imaging protocols. Different AMRI approaches have been tested successfully in hepatocellular carcinoma detection and for assessment of diffuse liver disease. The most accurate, time-effective, and cost-effective protocol as well as the target population need to be defined. Prospective and multicentric studies, exploring different AMRI protocols versus the current standard of reference, should be performed.
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Granata V, Grassi R, Fusco R, Belli A, Cutolo C, Pradella S, Grazzini G, La Porta M, Brunese MC, De Muzio F, Ottaiano A, Avallone A, Izzo F, Petrillo A. Diagnostic evaluation and ablation treatments assessment in hepatocellular carcinoma. Infect Agent Cancer 2021; 16:53. [PMID: 34281580 PMCID: PMC8287696 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-021-00393-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This article provides an overview of diagnostic evaluation and ablation treatment assessment in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Only studies, in the English language from January 2010 to January 202, evaluating the diagnostic tools and assessment of ablative therapies in HCC patients were included. We found 173 clinical studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria.HCC may be noninvasively diagnosed by imaging findings. Multiphase contrast-enhanced imaging is necessary to assess HCC. Intravenous extracellular contrast agents are used for CT, while the agents used for MRI may be extracellular or hepatobiliary. Both gadoxetate disodium and gadobenate dimeglumine may be used in hepatobiliary phase imaging. For treatment-naive patients undergoing CT, unenhanced imaging is optional; however, it is required in the post treatment setting for CT and all MRI studies. Late arterial phase is strongly preferred over early arterial phase. The choice of modality (CT, US/CEUS or MRI) and MRI contrast agent (extracelllar or hepatobiliary) depends on patient, institutional, and regional factors. MRI allows to link morfological and functional data in the HCC evaluation. Also, Radiomics is an emerging field in the assessment of HCC patients.Postablation imaging is necessary to assess the treatment results, to monitor evolution of the ablated tissue over time, and to evaluate for complications. Post- thermal treatments, imaging should be performed at regularly scheduled intervals to assess treatment response and to evaluate for new lesions and potential complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Granata
- Division of Radiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Grassi
- Division of Radiology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology SIRM, SIRM Foundation, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Belli
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgical Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Cutolo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Silvia Pradella
- Radiology Division, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Grazzini
- Radiology Division, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Maria Chiara Brunese
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Federica De Muzio
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ottaiano
- Abdominal Oncology Division, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Avallone
- Abdominal Oncology Division, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Izzo
- Division of Hepatobiliary Surgical Oncology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonella Petrillo
- Division of Radiology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione Pascale - IRCCS di Napoli, Naples, Italy
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Kim DH, Choi SH, Shim JH, Kim SY, Lee SS, Byun JH, Choi JI. Meta-Analysis of the Accuracy of Abbreviated Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance: Non-Contrast versus Hepatobiliary Phase-Abbreviated Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122975. [PMID: 34198589 PMCID: PMC8231787 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Ultrasonography is recommended as a standard surveillance modality, but the performance of surveillance ultrasound for detecting early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is limited. Motivated to provide a more sensitive method, abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (AMRI) protocols have been introduced for HCC surveillance. We aimed to systematically determine the diagnostic performance of surveillance AMRI for detecting HCC. This meta-analysis of 10 studies comprising 1547 patients found that the pooled sensitivity and specificity of surveillance AMRI for detecting HCC were 86% and 96%, respectively. Hepatobiliary phase contrast-enhanced AMRI showed significantly higher sensitivities for detecting HCC than non-contrast AMRI (87% vs. 82%), but significantly lower specificities (93% vs. 98%). Therefore, surveillance AMRI had overall good diagnostic performance for detecting HCC and might be clinically useful for HCC surveillance. In addition, AMRI protocol should be selected with consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of each protocol. Abstract We aimed to determine the performance of surveillance abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (AMRI) for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and to compare the performance of surveillance AMRI according to different protocols. Original research studies reporting the performance of surveillance AMRI for the detection of HCC were identified in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of surveillance AMRI were calculated using a hierarchical model. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of contrast-enhanced hepatobiliary phase (HBP)-AMRI and non-contrast (NC)-AMRI were calculated and compared using bivariate meta-regression. Ten studies, including 1547 patients, reported the accuracy of surveillance AMRI. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of surveillance AMRI for detecting any-stage HCC were 86% (95% confidence interval (CI), 80–90%; I2 = 0%) and 96% (95% CI, 93–98%; I2 = 80.5%), respectively. HBP-AMRI showed a significantly higher sensitivity for detecting HCC than NC-AMRI (87% vs. 82%), but significantly lower specificity (93% vs. 98%) (p = 0.03). Study quality and MRI magnet field strength were factors significantly associated with study heterogeneity (p ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, surveillance AMRI showed good overall diagnostic performance for detecting HCC. HBP-AMRI had significantly higher sensitivity for detecting HCC than NC-AMRI, but lower specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Hwan Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea; (D.H.K.); (J.-I.C.)
| | - Sang Hyun Choi
- Asan Medical Center, Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.Y.K.); (S.S.L.); (J.H.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +8-223-010-1797; Fax: +8-22-476-4719
| | - Ju Hyun Shim
- Asan Medical Center, Department of Gastroenterology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea;
| | - So Yeon Kim
- Asan Medical Center, Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.Y.K.); (S.S.L.); (J.H.B.)
| | - Seung Soo Lee
- Asan Medical Center, Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.Y.K.); (S.S.L.); (J.H.B.)
| | - Jae Ho Byun
- Asan Medical Center, Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea; (S.Y.K.); (S.S.L.); (J.H.B.)
| | - Joon-Il Choi
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea; (D.H.K.); (J.-I.C.)
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Brunsing RL, Fowler KJ, Yokoo T, Cunha GM, Sirlin CB, Marks RM. Alternative approach of hepatocellular carcinoma surveillance: abbreviated MRI. HEPATOMA RESEARCH 2020; 6:59. [PMID: 33381651 PMCID: PMC7771881 DOI: 10.20517/2394-5079.2020.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on emerging abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (AMRI) surveillance of patients with chronic liver disease for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This surveillance strategy has been proposed as a high-sensitivity alternative to ultrasound for identification of patients with early-stage HCC, particularly in patients with cirrhosis or obesity, in whom sonographic visualization of small tumors may be compromised. Three general AMRI approaches have been developed and studied in the literature - non-contrast AMRI, dynamic contrast-enhanced AMRI, and hepatobiliary phase contrast-enhanced AMRI - each comprising a small number of selected sequences specifically tailored for HCC detection. The rationale, general technique, advantages and disadvantages, and diagnostic performance of each AMRI approach is explained. Additionally, current gaps in knowledge and future directions are discussed. Based on emerging evidence, we cautiously recommend the use of AMRI for HCC surveillance in situations where ultrasound is compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan L. Brunsing
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kathryn J. Fowler
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Takeshi Yokoo
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Guilherme Moura Cunha
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Claude B. Sirlin
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Robert M. Marks
- Department of Radiology, Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
- Department of Radiology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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11
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Olson MC, Vietti Violi N, Taouli B, Venkatesh SK. Abbreviated Magnetic Resonance Imaging Protocols in the Abdomen and Pelvis. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2020; 28:381-394. [PMID: 32624156 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, the clinical applications for which magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is routinely used have expanded exponentially. MR imaging protocols have become increasingly complex, adversely affecting image acquisition and interpretation times. The MR imaging workflow has become a prime target for process improvement initiatives. There has been growing interest in the cultivation of abbreviated MR imaging protocols that evaluate specific clinical questions while reducing cost and increasing access. The overarching goal is to streamline the MR imaging workflow and reduce the time needed to obtain and report examinations by eliminating duplicative or unnecessary sequences without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Olson
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Naïk Vietti Violi
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, Box 1234, New York, NY 10029, USA; Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
| | - Bachir Taouli
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave Levy Place, Box 1234, New York, NY 10029, USA; BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sudhakar Kundapur Venkatesh
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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Vietti Violi N, Lewis S, Liao J, Hulkower M, Hernandez-Meza G, Smith K, Babb JS, Chin X, Song J, Said D, Kihira S, Sirlin CB, Reeder SB, Bashir MR, Fowler KJ, Ferket BS, Sigel K, Taouli B. Gadoxetate-enhanced abbreviated MRI is highly accurate for hepatocellular carcinoma screening. Eur Radiol 2020; 30:6003-6013. [PMID: 32588209 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-07014-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to compare the performance of 3 different abbreviated MRI (AMRI) sets extracted from a complete gadoxetate-enhanced MRI obtained for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening. Secondary objective was to perform a preliminary cost-effectiveness analysis, comparing each AMRI set to published ultrasound performance for HCC screening in the USA. METHODS This retrospective study included 237 consecutive patients (M/F, 146/91; mean age, 58 years) with chronic liver disease who underwent a complete gadoxetate-enhanced MRI for HCC screening in 2017 in a single institution. Two radiologists independently reviewed 3 AMRI sets extracted from the complete exam: non-contrast (NC-AMRI: T2-weighted imaging (T2wi)+diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)), dynamic-AMRI (Dyn-AMRI: T2wi+DWI+dynamic T1wi), and hepatobiliary phase AMRI (HBP-AMRI: T2wi+DWI+T1wi during the HBP). Each patient was classified as HCC-positive/HCC-negative based on the reference standard, which consisted in all available patient data. Diagnostic performance for HCC detection was compared between sets. Estimated set characteristics, including historical ultrasound data, were incorporated into a microsimulation model for cost-effectiveness analysis. RESULTS The reference standard identified 13/237 patients with HCC (prevalence, 5.5%; mean size, 33.7 ± 30 mm). Pooled sensitivities were 61.5% for NC-AMRI (95% confidence intervals, 34.4-83%), 84.6% for Dyn-AMRI (60.8-95.1%), and 80.8% for HBP-AMRI (53.6-93.9%), without difference between sets (p range, 0.06-0.16). Pooled specificities were 95.5% (92.4-97.4%), 99.8% (98.4-100%), and 94.9% (91.6-96.9%), respectively, with a significant difference between Dyn-AMRI and the other sets (p < 0.01). All AMRI methods were effective compared with ultrasound, with life-year gain of 3-12 months against incremental costs of US$ < 12,000. CONCLUSIONS NC-AMRI has limited sensitivity for HCC detection, while HBP-AMRI and Dyn-AMRI showed excellent sensitivity and specificity, the latter being slightly higher for Dyn-AMRI. Cost-effectiveness estimates showed that AMRI is effective compared with ultrasound. KEY POINTS • Comparison of different abbreviated MRI (AMRI) sets reconstructed from a complete gadoxetate MRI demonstrated that non-contrast AMRI has low sensitivity (61.5%) compared with contrast-enhanced AMRI (80.8% for hepatobiliary phase AMRI and 84.6% for dynamic AMRI), with all sets having high specificity. • Non-contrast and hepatobiliary phase AMRI can be performed in less than 14 min (including set-up time), while dynamic AMRI can be performed in less than 17 min. • All AMRI sets were cost-effective for HCC screening in at-risk population in comparison with ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naik Vietti Violi
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA.,Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sara Lewis
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Joseph Liao
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Miriam Hulkower
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | | | - James S Babb
- Department of Radiology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xing Chin
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Joseph Song
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Daniela Said
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA.,Department of Radiology, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Shingo Kihira
- Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Claude B Sirlin
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Medical Center, 200 West Arbor Drive, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Scott B Reeder
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mustafa R Bashir
- Department of Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn J Fowler
- Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Medical Center, 200 West Arbor Drive, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Bart S Ferket
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Keith Sigel
- Division of General Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bachir Taouli
- BioMedical Engineering and Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Diagnostic, Molecular and Interventional Radiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1470 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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Jiang HY, Chen J, Xia CC, Cao LK, Duan T, Song B. Noninvasive imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma: From diagnosis to prognosis. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:2348-2362. [PMID: 29904242 PMCID: PMC6000290 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i22.2348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and a major public health problem worldwide. Hepatocarcinogenesis is a complex multistep process at molecular, cellular, and histologic levels with key alterations that can be revealed by noninvasive imaging modalities. Therefore, imaging techniques play pivotal roles in the detection, characterization, staging, surveillance, and prognosis evaluation of HCC. Currently, ultrasound is the first-line imaging modality for screening and surveillance purposes. While based on conclusive enhancement patterns comprising arterial phase hyperenhancement and portal venous and/or delayed phase wash-out, contrast enhanced dynamic computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the diagnostic tools for HCC without requirements for histopathologic confirmation. Functional MRI techniques, including diffusion-weighted imaging, MRI with hepatobiliary contrast agents, perfusion imaging, and magnetic resonance elastography, show promise in providing further important information regarding tumor biological behaviors. In addition, evaluation of tumor imaging characteristics, including nodule size, margin, number, vascular invasion, and growth patterns, allows preoperative prediction of tumor microvascular invasion and patient prognosis. Therefore, the aim of this article is to review the current state-of-the-art and recent advances in the comprehensive noninvasive imaging evaluation of HCC. We also provide the basic key concepts of HCC development and an overview of the current practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Yu Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chun-Chao Xia
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Li-Kun Cao
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ting Duan
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Bin Song
- Department of Radiology, Sichuan University West China Hospital, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan Province, China
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