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Franchi E, Dondossola DE, Marini GMF, Iavarone M, Del Prete L, Di Benedetto C, Donato MF, Antonelli B, Lampertico P, Caccamo L. Impact of Pre-Liver Transplant Treatments on the Imaging Accuracy of HCC Staging and Their Influence on Outcomes. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1043. [PMID: 38473400 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16051043] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The outcome of liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocarcinoma (HCC) is strongly influenced by HCC staging, which is based on radiological examinations in a pre-LT setting; concordance between pre-LT radiological and definitive pathological staging remains controversial. To address this issue, we retrospectively analyzed our LT series to assess concordance between radiology and pathology and to explore the factors associated with poor concordance and outcomes. We included all LTs with an HCC diagnosis performed between 2013 and 2018. Concordance (Co group) was defined as a comparable tumor burden in preoperative imaging and post-transplant pathology; otherwise, non-concordance was diagnosed (nCo group). Concordance between radiology and pathology was observed in 32/134 patients (Co group, 24%). The number and diameter of the nodules were higher when nCo was diagnosed, as was the number of pre-LT treatments. Although concordance did not affect survival, more than three pre-LT treatments led to a lower disease-free survival. Patients who met the Milan Criteria (Milan-in patients) were more likely to receive ≥three prior treatments, leading to a lower survival in multi-treated Milan-in patients than in other Milan-in patients. In conclusion, the concordance rate between the pre-LT imaging and histopathological results was low in patients with a high number of nodules. Multiple bridging therapies reduce the accuracy of pre-LT imaging in predicting HCC stages and negatively affect outcomes after LT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisa Franchi
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Eliseo Dondossola
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Francesca Marini
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Iavarone
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Del Prete
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Di Benedetto
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Francesca Donato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Antonelli
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Lampertico
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi, 20122 Milan, Italy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Lucio Caccamo
- General and Liver Transplant Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
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2
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State of the art in magnetic resonance imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma. Radiol Oncol 2018; 52:353-364. [PMID: 30511939 PMCID: PMC6287184 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2018-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer mortality. Chronic liver disease caused by viral infection, alcohol abuse, or other factors can lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is the most important clinical risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) whereby the normal hepatic architecture is replaced by fibrous septa and a spectrum of nodules ranging from benign regenerative nodules to HCC, each one of them with different imaging features. Conclusions Furthermore, advanced techniques including the quantification of hepatic and intralesional fat and iron, magnetic resonance elastography, radiomics, radiogenomics, and positron emission tomography (PET)-MRI are highly promising for the extraction of new imaging biomarkers that reflect the tumor microenvironment and, in the future, may add decision-making value in the management of patients with HCC.
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3
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Rastogi A. Changing role of histopathology in the diagnosis and management of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2018; 24:4000-4013. [PMID: 30254404 PMCID: PMC6148422 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i35.4000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and fatal cancer in the world. HCC frequently presents with advanced disease, has a high recurrence rate and limited treatment options, which leads to very poor prognosis. This warrants urgent improvement in the diagnosis and treatment. Liver biopsy plays very important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC, but with technical advancements and progression in the field of imaging, clinical guidelines have restricted the role of biopsy to very limited situations. Biopsy also has its own problems of needle tract seeding of tumor, small risk of complications, technical and sampling errors along with interpretative errors. Despite this, tissue analysis is often required because imaging is not always specific, limited expertise and lack of advanced imaging in many centers and limitations of imaging in the diagnosis of small, mixed and other variant forms of HCC. In addition, biopsy confirmation is often required for clinical trials of new drugs and targeted therapies. Tissue biomarkers along with certain morphological features, phenotypes and immune-phenotypes that serve as important prognostic and outcome predictors and as decisive factors for therapy decisions, add to the continuing role of histopathology. Advancements in cancer biology and development of molecular classification of HCC with clinic pathological correlation, lead to discovery of HCC phenotypic surrogates of prognostic and therapeutically significant molecular signatures. Thus tissue characteristics and morphology based correlates of molecular subtypes provide invaluable information for management and prognosis. This review thus focuses on the importance of histopathology and resurgence of role of biopsy in the diagnosis, management and prognostication of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Rastogi
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Liver & Biliary Sciences, New Delhi 110070, India
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Pahwa S, Liu H, Chen Y, Dastmalchian S, O'Connor G, Lu Z, Badve C, Yu A, Wright K, Chalian H, Rao S, Fu C, Vallines I, Griswold M, Seiberlich N, Zeng M, Gulani V. Quantitative perfusion imaging of neoplastic liver lesions: A multi-institution study. Sci Rep 2018; 8:4990. [PMID: 29563601 PMCID: PMC5862961 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20726-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe multi-institutional experience using free-breathing, 3D Spiral GRAPPA-based quantitative perfusion MRI in characterizing neoplastic liver masses. 45 patients (age: 48–72 years) were prospectively recruited at University Hospitals, Cleveland, USA on a 3 Tesla (T) MRI, and at Zhongshan Hospital, Shanghai, China on a 1.5 T MRI. Contrast-enhanced volumetric T1-weighted images were acquired and a dual-input single-compartment model used to derive arterial fraction (AF), distribution volume (DV) and mean transit time (MTT) for the lesions and normal parenchyma. The measurements were compared using two-tailed Student’s t-test, with Bonferroni correction applied for multiple-comparison testing. 28 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and 17 metastatic lesions were evaluated. No significant difference was noted in perfusion parameters of normal liver parenchyma and neoplastic masses at two centers (p = 0.62 for AF, 0.015 for DV, 0.42 for MTT for HCC, p = 0.13 for AF, 0.97 for DV, 0.78 for MTT for metastases). There was statistically significant difference in AF, DV, and MTT of metastases and AF and DV of HCC compared to normal liver parenchyma (p < 0.5/9 = 0.0055). A statistically significant difference was noted in the MTT of metastases compared to hepatocellular carcinoma (p < 0.001*10-5). In conclusion, 3D Spiral-GRAPPA enabled quantitative free-breathing perfusion MRI exam provides robust perfusion parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Pahwa
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Hao Liu
- Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sara Dastmalchian
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Gregory O'Connor
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ziang Lu
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Chaitra Badve
- Radiology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Alice Yu
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Katherine Wright
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Hamid Chalian
- Radiology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Shengxiang Rao
- Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Caixia Fu
- Siemens Shenzhen Magnetic Resonance Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Mark Griswold
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Nicole Seiberlich
- Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Mengsu Zeng
- Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Vikas Gulani
- Radiology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States. .,Radiology, University Hospitals, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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5
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Mehta N, Dodge JL, Roberts JP, Hirose R, Yao FY. Misdiagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients receiving no local-regional therapy prior to liver transplant: An analysis of the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network explant pathology form. Clin Transplant 2017; 31. [PMID: 28881064 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Patients with T1 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not eligible for Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) exception for liver transplant (LT) in part due to a high rate of misdiagnosis (no HCC on explant). The likelihood of misdiagnosis for T2 HCC and factors associated with misdiagnosis are unknown. We analyzed the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database including 5664 adults who underwent LT from 2012 to 2015 with MELD exception for T2 HCC, and searched for no evidence of HCC in the explant pathology file. We focused on those (n = 324) receiving no local-regional therapy (LRT) to evaluate the probability of no HCC found in explant. Median waiting time was short at 1.7 months, and 35 (11%) had no HCC on explant. On multivariable logistic regression, factors associated with no HCC on explant were age <50 (OR: 17.3, P < .001), non-HCV (OR: 5.4, P = .001), and alpha-fetoprotein <10 (OR: 2.9, P = .04). Tumor size and number were not different between groups. The proportion of misdiagnosis did not change significantly after implementation of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) for HCC diagnosis. CONCLUSION The rate of misdiagnosis was 11% among T2 HCC patients who underwent LT without receiving LRT prior to LT and did not change significantly after implementation of LI-RADS. More efforts are needed to eliminate unnecessary LT for patients without HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Mehta
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Dodge
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John P Roberts
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ryutaro Hirose
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Francis Y Yao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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6
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Tholey DM, Hornung B, Enestvedt CK, Chen Y, Naugler WS, Farsad K, Nabavizadeh N, Schlansky B, Ahn J, Jou JH. Close observation versus upfront treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma: are the exception points worth the risk? BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2017; 4:e000157. [PMID: 28944072 PMCID: PMC5596865 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2017-000157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 07/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess the outcomes of immediate LDT versus observation strategies for T1 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with respect to progression beyond Milan and survival. METHOD T1 HCCs were retrospectively reviewed from a multidisciplinary tumour board database between September 2007 and May 2015. In the observation group, T1 lesions were observed until the tumour grew to meet T2 criteria (=2 cm). The treatment group consisted of T1 lesions treated at diagnosis with liver directed therapy (LDT). Kaplan-Meier plots were constructed for tumour progression beyond Milan and overall survival. RESULTS 87 patients (observation n=56; LDT n=31) were included in the study. A total of 22% (n=19) of patients progressed beyond Milan with no difference in progression between treatment and observation groups (19% vs 23%, p=0.49). Median time to progression beyond Milan was 16 months. Overall transplantation rate was 22% (observation group n=16; treatment group n=3, p=0.04). Median survival was 55 months with LDT versus 36 months in the observation group (p=0.22). In patients who progressed to T2 (n=60), longer time to T2 progression was a predictor of improved survival (HR=0.94, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.99, p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Immediate LDT of T1 lesions was not associated with increased risk of progression beyond Milan criteria when compared with an observation approach. Longer time to T2 progression was associated with increased survival and may be a surrogate for favourable tumour biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Tholey
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Ben Hornung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Charles K Enestvedt
- Department of Abdominal Transplantation Surgery, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Yiyi Chen
- Division of Biostatistics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Willscott S Naugler
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Khashayar Farsad
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Nima Nabavizadeh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Barry Schlansky
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Joseph Ahn
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Janice H Jou
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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7
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Joo I, Lee JM. Recent Advances in the Imaging Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Value of Gadoxetic Acid-Enhanced MRI. Liver Cancer 2016; 5:67-87. [PMID: 26989660 PMCID: PMC4789886 DOI: 10.1159/000367750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DPTA), or gadoxetic acid for short, is a hepatocyte-specific contrast agent which is now increasingly used for the detection and characterization of focal hepatic lesions, particularly in patients at high-risk of developing hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). In fact, several recent guidelines now recognize gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI (Gd-EOB-MRI) as the primary diagnostic imaging modality for the noninvasive diagnosis of HCC, although it must be noted that several major guidelines still include only extracellular contrast media-enhanced computed tomography and MRI. The primary merits of Gd-EOB-MRI lie in the fact that it can provide not only dynamic imaging, but also hepatobiliary phase (HBP) imaging which can lead to high lesion-to-liver contrast and give additional information regarding hepatocyte uptake via organic anion transporting polypeptides. This, in turn, allows higher sensitivity in detecting small HCCs and helps provide additional information regarding the multistep process of hepatocarcinogenesis. Indeed, many recent studies have investigated the diagnostic value of Gd-EOB-MRI for early HCCs as well as its role as a potential imaging biomarker in predicting outcome. We herein review the recent advances in the imaging diagnosis of HCCs focusing on the applications of Gd-EOB-MRI and the challenging issues that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ijin Joo
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea,*Jeong Min Lee, MD, Ph.D, Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-744 (Republic of Korea), Tel. +82 2 2072 3154, E-Mail
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8
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Mehta N, Sarkar M, Dodge JL, Fidelman N, Roberts JP, Yao FY. Intention to treat outcome of T1 hepatocellular carcinoma with the "wait and not ablate" approach until meeting T2 criteria for liver transplant listing. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:178-87. [PMID: 26479422 PMCID: PMC4803445 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Revised: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Patients with T1 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 1 lesion < 2 cm) are currently not eligible for priority listing for liver transplantation (LT). A common practice is to wait without locoregional therapy (LRT) until tumor growth occurs from T1 to T2 (1 lesion 2-5 cm or 2-3 lesions ≤ 3 cm) to be eligible for listing with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease exception. We aimed to evaluate the intention to treat outcome of the "wait and not ablate" approach for nonresection candidates with T1 HCC until tumor growth to T2. The study included 114 patients with T1 HCC 1.0-1.9 cm followed by serial imaging every 3 months. Two investigators performed independent imaging reviews to confirm the diagnosis. Median increase in total tumor diameter was 0.14 cm/month. Probabilities of progression from T1 to directly beyond T2 without LT listing were 4.4% at 6 months and 9.0% at both 12 and 24 months. The 1- and 3-year survival was 94.5% and 75.5%. In multivariate analysis, predictors of rapid tumor progression, defined as a > 1 cm increase in total tumor diameter over 3 months, included alcoholic liver disease (odds ratio [OR], 6.52; P = 0.02) and Hispanic race (OR, 3.86; P = 0.047), whereas hepatitis B appeared to be protective (OR, 0.09; P = 0.04). By competing risks regression, predictors of exclusion from LT (with or without listing for LT under T2) were alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) ≥ 500 ng/mL (HR, 12.69; 95% confidence interval, 2.8-57.0; P = 0.001) and rapid tumor progression (HR, 5.68; P < 0.001). In conclusion, the "wait and not ablate" approach until tumor growth from T1 to T2 before LT listing is associated with a <10% risk of tumor progression to directly beyond T2 criteria. However, patients with AFP ≥ 500 ng/mL and rapid tumor progression are at high risk for wait-list dropout and should receive early LRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Mehta
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Monika Sarkar
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jennifer L. Dodge
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Nicholas Fidelman
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - John P. Roberts
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Francis Y. Yao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA,Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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9
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Tsurusaki M, Sofue K, Isoda H, Okada M, Kitajima K, Murakami T. Comparison of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and contrast-enhanced computed tomography with histopathological examinations for the identification of hepatocellular carcinoma: a multicenter phase III study. J Gastroenterol 2016; 51:71-9. [PMID: 26130441 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-015-1097-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an important role in preoperative evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, no studies have prospectively performed intraindividual comparison of gadoxetic acid-enhanced 3T MRI and multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) with histopathological examination for the detection of HCCs. We prospectively compared the efficacies of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI and multiphasic contrast-enhanced MDCT with that of histopathological examination, used as a reference standard, for the detection of HCC in surgical candidates. METHODS The study was approved by the institutional review boards at each of four centers. Patients scheduled to undergo multiphasic CT, gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI, and liver surgery were prospectively included in this study. The diagnostic abilities of MRI and CT were evaluated and compared on the basis of sensitivity and positive predictive value for detection of and differentiation between HCCs and benign lesions. RESULTS Fifty-four patients with 83 histopathologically confirmed HCCs were included in the study. Combined interpretation of the dynamic and hepatobiliary phases of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI showed statistically higher sensitivity for lesion detection (83 %) than did interpretation of multiphasic MDCT images (70 %; p < 0.001). The mean area under each alternative free-response receiver operating characteristics curve was significantly higher for MR images (0.927) than for CT images (0.864, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The sensitivity for preoperative detection of HCCs was higher for gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI than for multiphasic MDCT imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keitaro Sofue
- National Cancer Center Hospital-Diagnostic Radiology, 5-1-1, Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo, 104-0045, Japan
- Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine-Radiology, 7-5-2, Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Hiroyoshi Isoda
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Nuclear Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Okada
- Faculty of Medicine-Radiology, Kinki University, Osakasayama, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kitajima
- Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine-Radiology, 7-5-2, Kusunoki-Cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 650-0017, Japan
- Department of Raiology, Dokkyo Medical School, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takamichi Murakami
- Faculty of Medicine-Radiology, Kinki University, Osakasayama, Osaka, Japan
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10
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Yoon JH, Park JW, Lee JM. Noninvasive Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Elaboration on Korean Liver Cancer Study Group-National Cancer Center Korea Practice Guidelines Compared with Other Guidelines and Remaining Issues. Korean J Radiol 2016; 17:7-24. [PMID: 26798212 PMCID: PMC4720815 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2016.17.1.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be diagnosed based on characteristic findings of arterial-phase enhancement and portal/delayed "washout" in cirrhotic patients. Several countries and major academic societies have proposed varying specific diagnostic criteria for HCC, largely reflecting the variable HCC prevalence in different regions and ethnic groups, as well as different practice patterns. In 2014, a new version of Korean practice guidelines for management of HCC was released by the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group (KLCSG) and the National Cancer Center (NCC). According to the KLCSG-NCC Korea practice guidelines, if the typical hallmark of HCC (i.e., hypervascularity in the arterial phase with washout in the portal or 3 min-delayed phases) is identified in a nodule ≥ 1 cm in diameter on either dynamic CT, dynamic MRI, or MRI using hepatocyte-specific contrast agent in high-risk groups, a diagnosis of HCC is established. In addition, the KLCSG-NCC Korea practice guidelines provide criteria to diagnose HCC for subcentimeter hepatic nodules according to imaging findings and tumor marker, which has not been addressed in other guidelines such as Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and European Association for the Study of the Liver. In this review, we briefly review the new HCC diagnostic criteria endorsed by the 2014 KLCSG-NCC Korea practice guidelines, in comparison with other recent guidelines; we furthermore address several remaining issues in noninvasive diagnosis of HCC, including prerequisite of sonographic demonstration of nodules, discrepancy between transitional phase and delayed phase, and implementation of ancillary features for HCC diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Hee Yoon
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Joong-Won Park
- Center for Liver Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea
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11
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Bellissimo F, Pinzone MR, Cacopardo B, Nunnari G. Diagnostic and therapeutic management of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:12003-12021. [PMID: 26576088 PMCID: PMC4641121 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i42.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an increasing health problem, representing the second cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The major risk factor for HCC is cirrhosis. In developing countries, viral hepatitis represent the major risk factor, whereas in developed countries, the epidemic of obesity, diabetes and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis contribute to the observed increase in HCC incidence. Cirrhotic patients are recommended to undergo HCC surveillance by abdominal ultrasounds at 6-mo intervals. The current diagnostic algorithms for HCC rely on typical radiological hallmarks in dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging, while the use of α-fetoprotein as an independent tool for HCC surveillance is not recommended by current guidelines due to its low sensitivity and specificity. Early diagnosis is crucial for curative treatments. Surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation and liver transplantation are considered the cornerstones of curative therapy, while for patients with more advanced HCC recommended options include sorafenib and trans-arterial chemo-embolization. A multidisciplinary team, consisting of hepatologists, surgeons, radiologists, oncologists and pathologists, is fundamental for a correct management. In this paper, we review the diagnostic and therapeutic management of HCC, with a focus on the most recent evidences and recommendations from guidelines.
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2014 KLCSG-NCC Korea Practice Guideline for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Gut Liver 2015; 9:267-317. [PMID: 25918260 PMCID: PMC4413964 DOI: 10.5009/gnl14460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was first developed in 2003 and revised in 2009 by the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group and the National Cancer Center, Korea. Since then, many studies on HCC have been carried out in Korea and other countries. In particular, a substantial body of knowledge has been accumulated on diagnosis, staging, and treatment specific to Asian characteristics, especially Koreans, prompting the proposal of new strategies. Accordingly, the new guideline presented herein was developed on the basis of recent evidence and expert opinions. The primary targets of this guideline are patients with suspicious or newly diagnosed HCC. This guideline provides recommendations for the initial treatment of patients with newly diagnosed HCC.
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Chou R, Cuevas C, Fu R, Devine B, Wasson N, Ginsburg A, Zakher B, Pappas M, Graham E, Sullivan SD. Imaging Techniques for the Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ann Intern Med 2015; 162:697-711. [PMID: 25984845 DOI: 10.7326/m14-2509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several imaging modalities are available for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PURPOSE To evaluate the test performance of imaging modalities for HCC. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (1998 to December 2014), the Cochrane Library Database, Scopus, and reference lists. STUDY SELECTION Studies on test performance of ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). DATA EXTRACTION One investigator abstracted data, and a second investigator confirmed them; 2 investigators independently assessed study quality and strength of evidence. DATA SYNTHESIS Few studies have evaluated imaging for HCC in surveillance settings. In nonsurveillance settings, sensitivity for detection of HCC lesions was lower for ultrasonography without contrast than for CT or MRI (pooled difference based on direct comparisons, 0.11 to 0.22), and MRI was associated with higher sensitivity than CT (pooled difference, 0.09 [95% CI, 0.07 to 12]). For evaluation of focal liver lesions, there were no clear differences in sensitivity among ultrasonography with contrast, CT, and MRI. Specificity was generally 0.85 or higher across imaging modalities, but this item was not reported in many studies. Factors associated with lower sensitivity included use of an explanted liver reference standard, and smaller or more well-differentiated HCC lesions. For MRI, sensitivity was slightly higher for hepatic-specific than nonspecific contrast agents. LIMITATIONS Only English-language articles were included, there was statistical heterogeneity in pooled analyses, and costs were not assessed. Most studies were conducted in Asia and had methodological limitations. CONCLUSION CT and MRI are associated with higher sensitivity than ultrasonography without contrast for detection of HCC; sensitivity was higher for MRI than CT. For evaluation of focal liver lesions, the sensitivities of ultrasonography with contrast, CT, and MRI for HCC are similar. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. ( PROSPERO CRD42014007016).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Chou
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Carlos Cuevas
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Rongwei Fu
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Beth Devine
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Ngoc Wasson
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Alexander Ginsburg
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Bernadette Zakher
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Miranda Pappas
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Elaine Graham
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Sean D. Sullivan
- From Pacific Northwest Evidence-based Practice Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon; University of Washington Centers for Comparative and Health Systems Effectiveness (CHASE) Alliance, Seattle, Washington; and Mayo Medical School, Rochester, Minnesota
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Lee DH, Lee JM, Lee JY, Kim SH, Kim JH, Yoon JH, Kim YJ, Lee JH, Yu SJ, Han JK, Choi BI. Non-hypervascular hepatobiliary phase hypointense nodules on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI: risk of HCC recurrence after radiofrequency ablation. J Hepatol 2015; 62:1122-30. [PMID: 25529623 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatobiliary phase images (HBPI) of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI can depict borderline hepatocellular nodules that have the potential to progress into hypervascular hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), as non-hypervascular hypointense nodules. We retrospectively evaluated the impact of the presence of non-hypervascular hypointense nodules at HBPI of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI on the patient's prognosis after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for early stage HCCs. METHODS A total of 139 patients who underwent pre-procedural gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI followed by RFA were included. After a mean follow-up of 44.6±13.2 months, we compared the results of tumor recurrence as well as overall and recurrence-free survival (RFS) with the presence of non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI. RESULTS The presence of non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI did not affect overall survival (p=0.136). However, the estimated 5-year RFS rate was 71.3% in 29 patients without non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI compared to 27.9% in 110 patients with non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI, indicating a significant difference (hazard ratio=2.84 [1.39-5.98], p=0.006). When we classified recurrence into local tumor progression [LTP], intrahepatic distant recurrence [IDR], and extra-hepatic metastasis [EM], five-year cumulative incidences (CI) of IDR in patients with non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI were significantly higher than those in patients without non-hypervascular hypointense nodules on HBPI (17.9% vs. 67.5%, p<0.001). Five-year CIs of LTP and EM showed no significant difference (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS The presence of non-hypervascular hypointense hepatocellular nodules on HBPI of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI taken prior to RFA is a significant predictive factor of recurrence after RFA of early stage HCCs, particularly IDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ho Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jae Young Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hyung Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hwan Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Jong Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Koo Han
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Ihn Choi
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea; Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea
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2014 Korean Liver Cancer Study Group-National Cancer Center Korea practice guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Korean J Radiol 2015; 16:465-522. [PMID: 25995680 PMCID: PMC4435981 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2015.16.3.465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The guideline for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was first developed in 2003 and revised in 2009 by the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group and the National Cancer Center, Korea. Since then, many studies on HCC have been carried out in Korea and other countries. In particular, a substantial body of knowledge has been accumulated on diagnosis, staging, and treatment specific to Asian characteristics, especially Koreans, prompting the proposal of new strategies. Accordingly, the new guideline presented herein was developed on the basis of recent evidence and expert opinions. The primary targets of this guideline are patients with suspicious or newly diagnosed HCC. This guideline provides recommendations for the initial treatment of patients with newly diagnosed HCC.
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16
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Watanabe A, Ramalho M, AlObaidy M, Kim HJ, Velloni FG, Semelka RC. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cirrhotic liver: An update. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:468-487. [PMID: 25848471 PMCID: PMC4381170 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i3.468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Revised: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive imaging has become the standard for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosis in cirrhotic livers. In this review paper, we go over the basics of MR imaging in cirrhotic livers and describe the imaging appearance of a spectrum of hepatic nodules marking the progression from regenerative nodules to low- and high-grade dysplastic nodules, and ultimately to HCCs. We detail and illustrate the typical imaging appearances of different types of HCC including focal, multi-focal, massive, diffuse/infiltrative, and intra-hepatic metastases; with emphasis on the diagnostic value of MR in imaging these lesions. We also shed some light on liver imaging reporting and data system, and the role of different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents and future MRI techniques including the use of advanced MR pulse sequences and utilization of hepatocyte-specific MRI contrast agents, and how they might contribute to improving the diagnostic performance of MRI in early stage HCC diagnosis.
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17
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Effect of radiologists’ experience with an adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction algorithm on detection of hypervascular liver lesions and perception of image quality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 40:2850-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s00261-015-0398-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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18
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Diffusion-weighted imaging of the liver in patients with chronic liver disease: comparison of monopolar and bipolar diffusion gradients for image quality and lesion detection. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2015; 204:59-68. [PMID: 25539238 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.13.11695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of our study was to compare diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequences using a bipolar versus a monopolar single-shot echo-planar imaging (EPI) gradient design for image quality and for lesion detection and characterization in patients with liver disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this retrospective study, 77 patients with chronic liver disease who underwent MRI including bipolar and monopolar DWI at 1.5 T were assessed. Two independent observers reviewed the DWI studies for image quality and the detection and characterization of liver lesions. The reference standard for diagnosis was established by consensus review of two different observers using imaging characteristics on conventional MRI sequences, lesion stability over time, pathologic correlation, or a combination of these findings. The estimated signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of liver parenchyma and apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) of the liver and lesions were calculated for both sequences. ROC analysis was conducted to evaluate the performance of ADC for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RESULTS Eighty-five lesions, 50 HCCs and 35 benign lesions, were detected with the reference standard in 38 patients. There was equivalent image quality for the bipolar and monopolar sequences (p = 0.24-0.42). The HCC detection rate for observers 1 and 2 was slightly better with bipolar DWI (50.0% and 52.0%, respectively) compared with monopolar DWI (44.0% and 46.0%); however, this difference did not reach statistical significance. The estimated SNR was higher with the monopolar sequence than with the bipolar sequence (p ≤ 0.001). The AUC for the ROC curve was 0.691 for bipolar DWI and 0.649 for monopolar DWI when ADC was used for the characterization of HCC, which is not a statistically significant difference (p = 0.59). CONCLUSION The higher estimated SNR yielded by the monopolar DWI sequence did not translate into better HCC detection compared with the bipolar DWI sequence. ADC has a limited role for HCC characterization in patients with liver disease.
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Lee JM, Park JW, Choi BI. 2014 KLCSG-NCC Korea Practice Guidelines for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma: HCC diagnostic algorithm. Dig Dis 2014; 32:764-77. [PMID: 25376295 DOI: 10.1159/000368020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most commonly occurring cancer in Korea and typically has a poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of only 28.6%. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to achieve the earliest possible diagnosis of HCC and to recommend the most up-to-date optimal treatment strategy in order to increase the survival rate of patients who develop this disease. After the establishment of the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group (KLCSG) and the National Cancer Center (NCC), Korea jointly produced for the first time the Clinical Practice Guidelines for HCC in 2003, revised them in 2009, and published the newest revision of the guidelines in 2014, including changes in the diagnostic criteria of HCC and incorporating the most recent medical advances over the past 5 years. In this review, we will address the noninvasive diagnostic criteria and diagnostic algorithm of HCC included in the newly established KLCSG-NCC guidelines in 2014, and review the differences in the criteria for a diagnosis of HCC between the KLCSG-NCC guidelines and the most recent imaging guidelines endorsed by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS), the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) system, the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) and the Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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20
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Lee DH, Lee JM, Baek JH, Shin CI, Han JK, Choi BI. Diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MR imaging in the detection of HCCs and allocation of transplant recipients on the basis of the Milan criteria and UNOS guidelines: correlation with histopathologic findings. Radiology 2014; 274:149-60. [PMID: 25203131 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.14140141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether hepatobiliary phase ( HBP hepatobiliary phase ) imaging can improve the diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the detection of hepatocellular carcinomas ( HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s) and to investigate the accuracy of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging in the allocation of transplant recipients on the basis of the Milan criteria and United Network for Organ Sharing ( UNOS United Network for Organ Sharing ) guidelines. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study had institutional review board approval; the requirement for informed consent was waived. Between June 2008 and June 2011, 63 patients who underwent liver transplantation (LT) were included. All patients underwent a gadoxetic acid-enhanced 3.0-T MR imaging examination of the liver that included HBP hepatobiliary phase images obtained 20 minutes after contrast material administration. Two abdominal radiologists independently assessed two MR imaging data sets to detect HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s: Set 1 included unenhanced and gadoxetic acid-enhanced dynamic images, and set 2 also included HBP hepatobiliary phase images. Patients were allocated into three groups: Those who did not meet the Milan criteria, those who did meet the Milan criteria with additional priority according to UNOS United Network for Organ Sharing guidelines, and those who did meet the Milan criteria without additional priority. Diagnostic performance of each data set in depicting HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s was compared by using jackknife alternative free-response receiver operating characteristics ( JAFROC jackknife alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic s). Sensitivity and accuracy of patient allocation were compared by using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Sixty-three HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s were found in 36 of 63 patients. Eight patients were classified as not meeting Milan criteria, 12 as meeting Milan criteria with additional priority, and 43 as meeting Milan criteria without additional priority. For the detection of HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s, reader-averaged figures of merit estimated with JAFROC jackknife alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic s were 0.761 for set 1 and 0.791 for set 2 (P < .001). Addition of HBP hepatobiliary phase images significantly improved sensitivity for the detection of HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s, particularly 1-2-cm HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s (six [20.7%] vs 13 [44.8%] of 29 [P = .008] for reader 1 and eight [27.6%] vs 12 [41.4%] of 29 [P = .041] for reader 2). Accuracy of patient allocation was 88.9% for set 1 and 92.1% for set 2 (P = .151). CONCLUSION Addition of HBP hepatobiliary phase images can significantly improve the diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MR imaging in the detection of 1-2-cm HCC hepatocellular carcinoma s in liver transplantation candidates. In addition, gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging showed 92.1% accuracy in patient allocation on the basis of the Milan criteria and UNOS United Network for Organ Sharing guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ho Lee
- From the Department of Radiology (D.H.L., J.M.L., J.H.B., C.i.S., J.K.H., B.I.C.) and Institute of Radiation Medicine (J.M.L., J.K.H., B.I.C.), Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 110-744, Korea
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Barr DC, Hussain HK. MR Imaging in Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2014; 22:315-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Abstract
Cirrhosis is the main risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The major causative factors of cirrhosis in the United States and Europe are chronic hepatitis C infection and excessive alcohol consumption with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis emerging as another important risk factor. Magnetic resonance imaging is the most sensitive imaging technique for the diagnosis of HCC, and the sensitivity can be further improved with the use of diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatocyte-specific contrast agents. The combination of arterial phase hyperenhancement, venous or delayed phase hypointensity "washout feature," and capsular enhancement are features highly specific for HCC with reported specificities of 96% and higher. When these features are present in a mass in the cirrhotic liver, confirmatory biopsy to establish the diagnosis of HCC is not necessary. Other tumors, such as cholangiocarcinoma, sometimes occur in the cirrhotic at a much lower rate than HCC and can mimic HCC, as do other benign lesions such as perfusion abnormalities. In this article, we discuss the imaging features of cirrhosis and HCC, the role of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of HCC and other benign and malignant lesions that occur in the cirrhotic liver, and the issue of nonspecific arterially hyperenhancing nodules often seen in cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C Barr
- From the Department of Radiology/MRI, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI
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23
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New approach for cirrhotic patients with single HCC after 20 years of management? Ann Surg 2014; 261:e109. [PMID: 24424145 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000000523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Murakami T, Tsurusaki M, Hyodo T, Imai Y. Clinical utility of imaging for evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2014; 1:101-8. [PMID: 27508179 PMCID: PMC4918268 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s48602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The hemodynamics of a hepatocellular nodule is the most important imaging parameter used to characterize various hepatocellular nodules in liver cirrhosis, because sequential changes occur in the feeding vessels and hemodynamic status during hepatocarcinogenesis. Therefore, the imaging criteria for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are also usually based on vascular findings, eg, early arterial uptake followed by washout in the portal venous and equilibrium phases. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, dynamic multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT), and dynamic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd-DTPA) are useful for detecting hypervascular HCC on the basis of vascular criteria but are not as useful for hypovascular HCC. Contrast-enhanced MR imaging with gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA), a hepatocyte-specific MR contrast agent, is superior to dynamic MDCT and dynamic MR imaging with Gd-DTPA in detecting both hypervascular and hypovascular HCC. Moreover, Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MR imaging can display each histologically differentiated HCC as hypointense relative to the liver parenchyma. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography imaging might not be suitable for the screening and detection of HCC, given its lower diagnostic performance. However, this technique plays an important role in determining whether HCC has spread beyond the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takamichi Murakami
- Department of Radiology, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Tomoko Hyodo
- Department of Radiology, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Imai
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Ikeda Municipal Hospital, Osaka, Japan
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Joishi D, Ueno A, Tanimoto A, Okuda S, Masugi Y, Emoto K, Okuma K, Sakamoto M, Imai Y, Kuribayashi S. Natural course of hypovascular nodules detected on gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging: presence of fat is a risk factor for hypervascularization. Magn Reson Med Sci 2013; 12:281-7. [PMID: 24172788 DOI: 10.2463/mrms.2012-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypovascular nodules that exhibit hypointensity in hepatocyte-phase images of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are frequently encountered in clinical practice. We investigated risk factors for the development of these nodules into hypervascular hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS We retrospectively reviewed our institutional database and identified 302 patients who underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging for suspected or confirmed HCC from February 1, 2008 to January 30, 2011. We excluded patients who were examined for metastasis of other malignancies or for other hepatic tumors, such as focal nodular hyperplasia. We identified hypovascular nodules that were hypointense in hepatocyte-phase images, recorded their characteristics, and calculated the cumulative hypervascularization rate for nodules that were followed up. RESULTS Of the 302 patients, 82 had hypovascular nodules (178 nodules; mean size, 9.3 mm). Sixty nodules were followed up for over 6 months, and eight progressed to hypervascular HCC. Hypervascularization occurred more frequently in nodules with fat than those without (P<0.01). The cumulative hypervascularization rate was 5.1% over a year. CONCLUSION The presence of intralesional fat was found to be a risk factor for hypervascularization of hypovascular nodules that exhibited hypointensity in the hepatocyte-phase images of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Joishi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Keio University School of Medicine
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Wu LM, Xu JR, Lu Q, Hua J, Chen J, Hu J. A pooled analysis of diffusion-weighted imaging in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic liver diseases. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013. [PMID: 23190006 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The purpose of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of all available studies of the diagnostic performance of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease. METHODS Databases including MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for relevant original articles published from January 2000 to April 2012. Pooled estimation and subgroup analysis data were obtained by statistical analysis. RESULTS Across the nine studies (476 patients), DWI sensitivity was 81% (95%CI: 67%-90%), and specificity was 89% (95% CI: 76%-95%). Overall, positive likelihood ratio was 7.11 (95%CI: 3.50, 14.48), negative likelihood ratio was 0.21 (95%CI: 0.12-0.37), and the diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 33.48 (95%CI: 16.67-67.25). The area under the curve of the summary receiver operator characteristic (ROC) was 0.92 (95% CI:0.89-0.94). In studies in which both DWI and conventional contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI) were performed, the comparison of DWI performance with that of conventional CE-MRI suggested no major differences against these two methods (P > 0.05). DWI combined CE-MRI had higher pooled sensitivity than DWI alone (93% vs 73%) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION DWI has good diagnostic performance in the detection of HCC in patients with chronic liver disease and equivalent to conventional CE-MRI. Combination of CE-MRI and DWI can improve the diagnostic accuracy of MRI. Further larger prospective studies are still needed to establish its value for detecting HCC in patients with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian-Ming Wu
- Department of Radiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Resection or transplantation for early hepatocellular carcinoma in a cirrhotic liver: does size define the best oncological strategy? Ann Surg 2013; 256:883-91. [PMID: 23108125 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e318273bad0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resection and liver transplantation (LT) are the only curative options for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients (HCC-cirr). OBJECTIVE We tried to define the best primary intention-to-treat strategy in patients undergoing either resection or LT for early single HCC-cirr (≤5 cm). METHODS From 1990 to 2010, 198 patients with early HCC-cirr underwent either resection (group R, n = 97) or LT (group T, n = 101) as the primary procedure. Our policy was to prioritize Childs A patients with peripheral lesions for resection rather than LT. Patient and tumor characteristics, and outcomes (recurrence-free survival [RFS] and overall survival [OS]), were studied. RESULTS A longer diagnosis-to-surgery interval, more Child Pugh B/C patients, and more tumor nodules (on histopathological examination) were found in group T patients. The postoperative mortality (4.1% vs 3.0%, P = 0.72) and rate of major complications (19.1% vs 24.7%, P = 0.35) were similar in groups R and T, respectively, whereas tumor recurrence was higher in group R (62% vs 10% in group T, P < 0.0001). The 5-year OS (75% vs 52%, P = 0.0008) and RFS (72% vs 20%, P < 0.0001) were better in group T; similarly, more patients were disease free at last follow-up (27% vs 62%, P < 0.0001). Resection as the surgical procedure, tumor diameter 3 cm or more on histology, and microvascular tumor invasion were poor prognostic factors for OS and RFS. Including dropout patients from LT list in the analysis, the outcomes in group T were still better (70% and 61% vs 51% and 36% at 5 and 10 years, P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS On an intention-to-treat basis, LT is associated with the best survival outcomes in patients with early HCC-cirr. Resection may achieve comparable OS in patients with single HCC-cirr of size smaller than 3 cm; however, the RFS still remains lower than that in patients of group T. This study could serve as a guide for HCC-cirr patients who are candidates for either resection or LT.
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Murawa D, Polom K, Rho YS, Murawa P. Developments in near-infrared-guided hepatobiliary, pancreatic and other upper gastrointestinal surgery. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2013; 8:211-9. [DOI: 10.1002/cmmi.1519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Revised: 10/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Murawa
- First Surgical Oncology and General Surgery Department; Greater Poland Cancer Center; Poznan; Poland
| | - Karol Polom
- First Surgical Oncology and General Surgery Department; Greater Poland Cancer Center; Poznan; Poland
| | - Young Soo Rho
- Department of Oncological Pathomorphology; Poznan University of Medical Sciences; Poznan; Poland
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Song DS, Bae SH. Changes of guidelines diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma during the last ten-year period. Clin Mol Hepatol 2012; 18:258-67. [PMID: 23091805 PMCID: PMC3467428 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2012.18.3.258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer deaths in the world. There have been many advances in the diagnosis of HCC during the last ten years, especially in the imaging techniques. The Korean Liver cancer study group (KLCSG), European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), American Association for the Study of Liver disease (AASLD), and Asian-Pacific Association for the Study of Liver (APASL) have made and changed the HCC guidelines with the advances in the imaging techniques and according to the results of the researches on HCC. We reviewed the changes of the imaging guidelines in HCC diagnosis according to the advances in the imaging techniques. Further studies will be necessary to resolve the controversies in the diagnosis of HCC smaller than 1 cm in size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Do Seon Song
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Bashir MR, Gupta RT, Davenport MS, Allen BC, Jaffe TA, Ho LM, Boll DT, Merkle EM. Hepatocellular carcinoma in a North American population: does hepatobiliary MR imaging with Gd-EOB-DTPA improve sensitivity and confidence for diagnosis? J Magn Reson Imaging 2012; 37:398-406. [PMID: 23011874 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.23818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2011] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the value of hepatobiliary phase imaging for detection and characterization of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in liver MRI with Gd-EOB-DTPA, in a North American population. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred MRI examinations performed with the intravenous injection of Gd-EOB-DTPA in patients with cirrhosis were reviewed retrospectively. Nodules were classified as HCC (n = 70), indeterminate (n = 33), or benign (n = 22). Five readers independently reviewed each examination with and without hepatobiliary phase images (HBP). Lesion conspicuity scores were compared between the two readings. Lesion detection, confidence scores, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were compared. RESULTS Lesion detection was slightly improved for all lesion types with the inclusion of the HBP, and was substantially higher for small HCCs (96.0% versus 85.3%). Mean confidence scores for the diagnosis of HCC increased for HCCs overall and each size category (P < 0.001). Diagnostic performance improved with the addition of the HBP (aggregate AROC 87.7% versus 80.0%, P < 0.01), and sensitivity for characterization improved (90.9% versus 78.3%, P < 0.01) while specificity was unchanged. CONCLUSION Hepatobiliary phase imaging may improve small lesion detection (<1 cm) and characterization of lesions in general, in MRI of the cirrhotic liver with Gd-EOB-DTPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa R Bashir
- Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
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Parente DB, Perez RM, Eiras-Araujo A, Oliveira Neto JA, Marchiori E, Constantino CP, Amorim VB, Rodrigues RS. MR imaging of hypervascular lesions in the cirrhotic liver: a diagnostic dilemma. Radiographics 2012; 32:767-87. [PMID: 22582358 DOI: 10.1148/rg.323115131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Cirrhosis is characterized by a spectrum of hepatocellular nodules that mark the progression from regenerative nodules to low- and high-grade dysplastic nodules, followed by small and large hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). Characterization of small nodules on the basis of imaging and histopathologic findings is complicated by an overlap in findings associated with each type of nodule, a reflection of their multistep transitions. Vascularity patterns change gradually as the nodules evolve, with an increasing shift from predominantly venous to predominantly arterial perfusion. Regenerative and low-grade dysplastic nodules demonstrate predominantly portal perfusion and contrast enhancement similar to that of surrounding parenchyma. Differentiation of high-grade dysplastic nodules and well-differentiated HCCs on the basis of dynamic imaging and histologic findings is challenging, with a high rate of false-negative results. Some small nodules that lack hypervascularity may be early HCCs. Progressed small and large HCCs usually present no diagnostic difficulty because of their characteristic findings. Although characterization of hypervascular lesions in the cirrhotic liver is difficult, it is a key step in disease management and is the radiologist's responsibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniella B Parente
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Lineu de Paula Machado 896/601, Jardim Botânico, CEP 22470-040, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Park MS, Kim S, Patel J, Hajdu CH, Do RKG, Mannelli L, Babb JS, Taouli B. Hepatocellular carcinoma: detection with diffusion-weighted versus contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in pretransplant patients. Hepatology 2012; 56:140-8. [PMID: 22370974 DOI: 10.1002/hep.25681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study evaluates the performance of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in pre-liver transplantation patients, compared and combined with contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (CET1WI), using liver explant as the standard of reference. We included 52 patients with cirrhosis (40 men, 12 women; mean age, 56 years) who underwent DWI and CET1WI within 90 days of liver transplantation. Magnetic resonance images were analyzed for HCC detection in three separate sessions by two independent observers: DWI images (DW-set), CET1WI (CE-set), and all images together (All-set). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), per-patient accuracy, and per-lesion PPV were calculated for each image set. A total of 72 HCCs were present in 33 patients at explant (mean size, 1.5 cm [range, 0.3-6.2 cm]). Per-patient sensitivity and NPV of CE-set were significantly higher than those of DW-set when using pooled data between observers (P = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively), whereas specificity, PPV, and accuracy were equivalent. Per-lesion sensitivity was significantly higher for CE-set versus DW-set (59.0% versus 43.8%; P = 0.008, pooled data from two observers). When stratified by lesion size, the difference was significant only for lesions with a size between 1 and 2 cm (42.0% for DW-set versus 74.0% for CE-set; P = 0.001). The addition of DWI to CET1WI improved sensitivity for the more experienced observer. CONCLUSION DWI is outperformed by CET1WI for detection of HCC, but represents a reasonable alternative to CET1WI for detection of HCC with a size above 2 cm. The addition of DWI to CET1WI slightly increases the detection rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi-Suk Park
- Departments of Radiology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Frydrychowicz A, Lubner MG, Brown JJ, Merkle EM, Nagle SK, Rofsky NM, Reeder SB. Hepatobiliary MR imaging with gadolinium-based contrast agents. J Magn Reson Imaging 2012; 35:492-511. [PMID: 22334493 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.22833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of gadolinium-based "hepatobiliary" contrast agents offers new opportunities for diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and has triggered great interest for innovative imaging approaches to the liver and bile ducts. In this review article we discuss the imaging properties of the two gadolinium-based hepatobiliary contrast agents currently available in the U.S., gadobenate dimeglumine and gadoxetic acid, as well as important pharmacokinetic differences that affect their diagnostic performance. We review potential applications, protocol optimization strategies, as well as diagnostic pitfalls. A variety of illustrative case examples will be used to demonstrate the role of these agents in detection and characterization of liver lesions as well as for imaging the biliary system. Changes in MR protocols geared toward optimizing workflow and imaging quality are also discussed. It is our aim that the information provided in this article will facilitate the optimal utilization of these agents and will stimulate the reader's pursuit of new applications for future benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Frydrychowicz
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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Dhanasekaran R, Limaye A, Cabrera R. Hepatocellular carcinoma: current trends in worldwide epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and therapeutics. Hepat Med 2012; 4:19-37. [PMID: 24367230 PMCID: PMC3846594 DOI: 10.2147/hmer.s16316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignancy in developing countries and its incidence is on the rise in the developing world. The epidemiology of this cancer is unique since its risk factors, including hepatitis C and B, have been clearly established. The current trends in the shifting incidence of HCC in different regions of the world can be explained partly by the changing prevalence of hepatitis. Early detection offers the only hope for curative treatment for patients with HCC, hence effective screening strategies for high-risk patients is of utmost importance. Liver transplantation and surgical resection remains the cornerstone of curative treatment. But major advances in locoregional therapies and molecular-targeted therapies for the treatment of advanced HCC have occurred recently. In this review, current trends in the worldwide epidemiology, surveillance, diagnosis, standard treatments, and the emerging therapies for HCC are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renumathy Dhanasekaran
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alpna Limaye
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Roniel Cabrera
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Becker-Weidman DJS, Kalb B, Sharma P, Kitajima HD, Lurie CR, Chen Z, Spivey JR, Knechtle SJ, Hanish SI, Adsay NV, Farris AB, Martin DR. Hepatocellular carcinoma lesion characterization: single-institution clinical performance review of multiphase gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging--comparison to prior same-center results after MR systems improvements. Radiology 2011; 261:824-33. [PMID: 21969663 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.11110157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To measure diagnostic performance in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by using the most recent technology and multiphase gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and to compare with earlier results at the same institution. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study was institutional review board approved and HIPAA compliant. Informed consent was obtained. Between January 2008 and April 2010, 101 patients underwent liver transplantation and pretransplantation abdominal MR imaging within 90 days. Prospective image interpretations from the clinical record were reviewed for documentation of HCC, including size, number, and location. Liver explant histologic examination provided the reference standard for lesion analysis and was performed in axial gross slices in conjunction with the MR imaging report for direct comparison. Tumors were categorized according to size (≥ 2 cm or <2 cm), and MR imaging detection sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and accuracy were calculated according to category. The Fisher exact test was used to compare results from this study against prior reported results. RESULTS Thirty-five (34.7%) of 101 patients had HCC at explant analysis. Patient-based analysis of all lesions showed a sensitivity and specificity of 97.1% (34 of 35) and 100% (66 of 66), respectively. For lesions 2 cm or larger, MR imaging had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% (23 of 23) and 100% (78 of 78), respectively. For lesions smaller than 2 cm, MR imaging had a sensitivity and specificity of 82.6% (19 of 23) and 100% (78 of 78), respectively. Lesion-based sensitivity for all tumors was 91.4% (53 of 58) in the current study, compared with 77.8% in 2007 (P = .07). For lesions smaller than 2 cm, the sensitivity was 87.5% (28 of 32) in the current study, compared with 55.6% previously (P = .02). CONCLUSION MR imaging remains a highly accurate diagnostic method for the preoperative evaluation of HCC, and detection of small (<2 cm) tumors has been significantly improved compared with that of earlier studies.
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Baek CK, Choi JY, Kim KA, Park MS, Lim JS, Chung YE, Kim MJ, Kim KW. Hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic liver disease: a comparison of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI and multiphasic MDCT. Clin Radiol 2011; 67:148-56. [PMID: 21920517 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2011.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Revised: 07/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM To compare the diagnostic performances of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and multiphasic multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS Institutional review board approval was obtained for this study and informed consent was obtained from all patients. Fifty-one patients (43 men, eight women; age range 32-80 years) with 73 HCCs underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI and multiphasic MDCT. Two readers independently analysed each image in three separate reading sessions. The alternative free-response receiver operating characteristic (AFROC) method was used to analyse the diagnostic accuracy. Positive and negative predictive values and sensitivity were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 73 HCCs were detected in 51 patients. Although not significant (p>0.05), the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.877 and 0.850 for MDCT, 0.918 and 0.911 for dynamic MRI, and 0.905 and 0.918 for combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase MR images. Differences in sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values between the readers were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase MRI images was more useful than MDCT in the detection of HCC lesions ≤1cm in diameter for one reader (p=0.043). CONCLUSION Gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI and MDCT show similar diagnostic performances for the detection of HCC in patients with chronic liver disease. However, the combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase MRI images may improve diagnostic accuracy in the detection of HCC lesions ≤1cm in diameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-K Baek
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiological Science, Yonsei University Health System, Seodaemungu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Piana G, Trinquart L, Meskine N, Barrau V, Beers BV, Vilgrain V. New MR imaging criteria with a diffusion-weighted sequence for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic liver diseases. J Hepatol 2011; 55:126-32. [PMID: 21145857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2010.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Revised: 10/11/2010] [Accepted: 10/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS To propose MRI criteria with a diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequence for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Patients, who underwent liver MRI with contrast-enhanced sequences and DWI between 2004 and 2008 and who had at least one confirmed HCC of at least 10mm, were included. Index diagnostic criteria were: (1) enhancement in the arterial-dominant phase and washout in the portal venous and/or equilibrium phases; (2) enhancement in the arterial-dominant phase and hyperintensity on DWI; (3) enhancement in the arterial-dominant phase and washout in the portal venous and/or equilibrium phases or hyperintensity on DWI. Two radiologists independently reviewed the corresponding sets of sequences (DWI alone; T1-weighted sequence before and after dynamic injection of gadolinium chelates; combined DWI-T1-weighted sequence). Inter-observer agreement and sensitivity were determined per nodule. RESULTS Ninety-one patients were included (109 HCCs). The sensitivity of conventional MRI criteria for the diagnosis of HCC was 59.6% for both radiologists. The sensitivity of enhancement in the arterial-dominant phase and hyperintensity on DWI was 77.1% or 76.1%, depending on the radiologist. The sensitivity of enhancement in the arterial-dominant phase and washout in the portal venous and/or equilibrium phases or hyperintensity on DWI was 84.4% or 85.3%, depending on the radiologist. The inter-observer agreement for the latter was very good (kappa coefficient 0.82). These results were consistent in HCCs smaller than 20mm. CONCLUSIONS The proposed criteria, based on the characteristics of lesions after gadolinium chelate administration and hyperintensity on DWI, significantly increased the sensitivity for the diagnosis of HCC compared to conventional criteria, regardless of tumor size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Piana
- Assistance-Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Beaujon, Department of Radiology, Clichy, France
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Jin GZ, Li Y, Cong WM, Yu H, Dong H, Shu H, Liu XH, Yan GQ, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Kang XN, Guo K, Wang ZD, Yang PY, Liu YK. iTRAQ-2DLC-ESI-MS/MS based identification of a new set of immunohistochemical biomarkers for classification of dysplastic nodules and small hepatocellular carcinoma. J Proteome Res 2011; 10:3418-28. [PMID: 21631109 DOI: 10.1021/pr200482t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The study aims to develop novel clinical immunohistochemical biomarkers for distinguishing small hepatocellular carcinoma (sHCC) from dysplastic nodules (DN). iTRAQ-2DLC-ESI-MS/MS technique was used to screen immunohistochemical biomarkers between precancerous lesions (liver cirrhosis and DN) and sHCC. A total of 1951 proteins were quantified, including 52 proteins upregulated in sHCC and 95 proteins downregulated in sHCC by at least 1.25- or 0.8-fold at p < 0.05. The selected biomarker candidates were further verified using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, receiver operation characteristics (ROC) curves and logistic regression model were carried out to evaluate the diagnostic values of the biomarkers. Finally, aminoacylase-1 (ACY1) and sequestosome-1 (SQSTM1) were chosen as novel candidate biomarkers for distinction of sHCC from DN. A constructed logistic regression model included ACY1, SQSTM1, and CD34. The sensitivity and specificity of this model for distinguishing sHCC from DN was 96.1% and 96.7%. In conclusion, ACY1 and SQSTM1 were identified as novel immunohistochemical biomarkers distinguishing sHCC from DN. In conclusion, expression levels of CD34, ACY1, and SQSTM1 can be used to establish an accurate diagnostic model for distinction of sHCC from DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Zhi Jin
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhong Shan Hospital and §Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Rode A. [Radiological diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in 2010]. Cancer Radiother 2011; 15:7-12. [PMID: 21256790 DOI: 10.1016/j.canrad.2010.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2010] [Revised: 05/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of diagnosis imaging is to detect hepatocellular carcinoma at an early stage, when a curative treatment is available. Biopsy is no longer required prior to treatment, and diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma is heavily dependent of imaging characteristics. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to describe the typical features of small (<20mm) and larger hepatocellular carcinomas with noninvasive diagnostic criteria, including ultrasound, computed tomography and MRI. Advances in these imaging modalities have greatly improved the detection of small hepatic nodules on liver cirrhosis, including the different steps of carcinogenesis, from regenerative to dysplastic nodules, and we emphasize the difficulties of radiological differentiation of precancerous lesions and small hepatocellular carcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rode
- Service d'imagerie médicale, hôpital de la Croix-Rousse, 93 Grande-Rue de la Croix-Rousse, Lyon, France.
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Di Martino M, Marin D, Guerrisi A, Baski M, Galati F, Rossi M, Brozzetti S, Masciangelo R, Passariello R, Catalano C. Intraindividual comparison of gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MR imaging and 64-section multidetector CT in the Detection of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis. Radiology 2010; 256:806-16. [PMID: 20720069 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.10091334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To prospectively compare gadoxetate disodium-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with multiphasic 64-section multidetector computed tomography (CT) in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Institutional review board approval and informed patient consent were obtained for this prospective study. Fifty-eight patients (39 men, 19 women; mean age, 63 years; age range, 35-84 years) underwent gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MR imaging and multiphasic 64-section multidetector CT. The imaging examinations were performed within 30 days of each other. The two sets of images were qualitatively analyzed in random order by three independent readers in a blinded and retrospective fashion. Using strict diagnostic criteria for HCC, readers classified all detected lesions with use of a four-point confidence scale. The reference standard was a combination of pathologic proof, conclusive imaging findings, and substantial tumor growth at follow-up CT or MR imaging (range of follow-up, 90-370 days). The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and positive predictive value were compared between the two image sets. Interreader variability was assessed. The accuracy of each imaging method was determined by using an adjusted modified chi(2) test. RESULTS Eighty-seven HCCs (mean size +/- standard deviation, 1.8 cm +/- 1.5; range, 0.3-7.0 cm) were confirmed in 42 of the 58 patients. Regardless of lesion size, the average diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity for all readers were significantly greater with gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MR imaging (average diagnostic accuracy: 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80, 0.97; average sensitivity: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.74, 0.96) than with multidetector CT (average diagnostic accuracy: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.65, 0.82; average sensitivity: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.59, 0.79) (P < .001 for each). No significant difference in positive predictive value was observed between the two image sets for each reader. Interreader agreement was good to excellent. CONCLUSION Compared with multiphasic 64-section multidetector CT, gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MR imaging yields significantly higher diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity in the detection of HCC in patients with cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Di Martino
- Departments of Radiological Sciences, General Surgery, Division of Organ Transplantation, Surgery P. Valdoni, and Statistics, University of Rome Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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Ayyappan AP, Jhaveri KS. CT and MRI of hepatocellular carcinoma: an update. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2010; 10:507-19. [PMID: 20397916 DOI: 10.1586/era.10.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide and one of the few malignancies with an increasing incidence in the USA. Imaging plays a crucial role in early detection, accurate staging and planning management strategies. Contrast material-enhanced MRI or computed tomography (CT) are the best imaging techniques currently available for the noninvasive diagnosis of HCC. The diagnosis of HCC is strongly dependent on hemodynamic features (arterial hypervascularity and washout in the venous phase) on dynamic imaging, and biopsy is no longer recommended for tumors with classical imaging features prior to treatment. The major challenge for radiologists in imaging cirrhosis is the characterization of hypervascular nodules smaller than 2 cm, which often have nonspecific imaging characteristics. In this review, we discuss the role of CT and MRI in the diagnosis and staging of HCC. The strengths and current limitations of these imaging modalities are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoop P Ayyappan
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Paul L Foster School of Medicine, 4800 Alberta Avenue, El Paso, TX 79905, USA.
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Wu H, Lu Q, Luo Y, He XL, Zeng Y. Application of contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography in the decision-making about hepatocellular carcinoma operation. World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:508-12. [PMID: 20101780 PMCID: PMC2811807 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i4.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To evaluate the detection and differentiation ability of contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography (CE-IOUS) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) operations.
METHODS: Clinical data of 50 HCC patients were retrospective analyzed. The sensitivity, specificity, false negative and false positive rates of contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI), IOUS and CE-IOUS were calculated and compared. Surgical strategy changes due to CE-IOUS were analyzed.
RESULTS: Lesions detected by CE-MRI, IOUS and CE-IOUS were 60, 97 and 85 respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, false negative rate, false positive rate of CE-MRI were 98.2%, 98.6%, 98.6%, 60.0%, respectively; for IOUS were 50.0%, 90.9%, 1.8%, 1.4%, respectively; and for CE-IOUS were 1.4%, 40.0%, 50.0%, 9.1%, respectively. The operation strategy of 9 (9/50, 18.0%) cases was changed according to the results of CE-IOUS.
CONCLUSION: Compared with CE-MRI, CE-IOUS performs better in detection and differentiation of small metastasis and regenerative nodules. It plays an important role in the decision-making of HCC operation.
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[Practice guidelines for management of hepatocellular carcinoma 2009]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF HEPATOLOGY 2010; 15:391-423. [PMID: 19783891 DOI: 10.3350/kjhep.2009.15.3.391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cancer in Korea, typically has a poor prognosis, and constitutes the majority of primary hepatic malignancies. It is the number one cause of death among people in their 50s in Korea. The five-year survival rate of liver cancer is poor; at 18.9%. Efforts to increase the survival rate through early diagnosis of HCC and optimal treatments are keenly needed. Western guideline for the management of HCC were developed, but these guidelines are somewhat unsuitable for Korean patients. Thus, the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group (KLCSG) and the National Cancer Center (NCC), Korea jointly produced the Clinical Practice Guidelines for HCC for the first time in Korea in 2003. Owing to medical advances over the following six years, diagnosis and treatment of HCC has changed considerably. As more national and foreign data are accumulated, KLCSG and NCC, Korea recently revised the Clinical Practice Guidelines for HCC. Forty or more specialists in the field of hepatology, general surgery, radiology and radiation oncology participated, and meticulously reviewed national and foreign papers, and collected opinions through advisory committee conferences. These multidisciplinary, evidence-based guidelines summarized diagnosis, surgical resection, liver transplantation, local treatments, transarterial chemoembolization, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, preemptive antiviral treatments, and response evaluation of HCC. These Korean guidelines are expected to be useful for clinical management of and research on HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
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- Korean Liver Cancer Study Group and National Cancer Center, Korea.
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Hardie AD, Romano PB. The use of T2*-weighted multi-echo GRE imaging as a novel method to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma compared with gadolinium-enhanced MRI: a feasibility study. Magn Reson Imaging 2010; 28:281-5. [PMID: 20071122 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2009.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2009] [Revised: 07/22/2009] [Accepted: 12/06/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of the study was to assess a T2*-weighted MRI sequence for the ability to identify hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS Hepatic iron deposition, which is common in chronic liver disease (CLD), may increase the conspicuity of HCC on GRE imaging due to increased T2* signal decay in liver parenchyma. In this study, a breath-hold T2*-weighted MRI sequence was evaluated by a blinded observer for HCC and the results compared to a reference standard of gadolinium-enhanced MRI in these same patients. Forty-one patients (mean age 56.2 years; 17 females) were included in this approved, retrospective study. RESULTS By the reference standard, 14 of 41 patients had a total of 25 HCCs. The sensitivity of the T2*-weighted MR sequence for identifying HCC, per lesion, was 60%, while the specificity was 100%. There was a significantly lower T2* value of liver parenchyma in patients with HCC identified by the T2*-weighted sequence than in those with HCCs which were not identified by the T2*-weighted sequence (27.8+/-2.2 vs. 21.9+/-2.1 ms; P=.02). CONCLUSIONS A T2*-weighted MRI sequence can identify HCC in patients with CLD. This technique may be beneficial for imaging of patients contraindicated for gadolinium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Hardie
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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Andreana L, Isgrò G, Pleguezuelo M, Germani G, Burroughs AK. Surveillance and diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis. World J Hepatol 2009; 1:48-61. [PMID: 21160965 PMCID: PMC2998953 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v1.i1.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2009] [Revised: 09/11/2009] [Accepted: 09/18/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Early identification of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is more frequent because of surveillance programs for HCC worldwide. The optimal strategy of surveillance in cirrhosis is a current topical issue. In terms of diagnosis, recent advances in non-invasive imaging technology, including various techniques of harmonic ultrasound, new ultrasound contrast agents, multi-slice helical computed tomography and rapid high quality magnetic resonance, have all improved the accuracy of diagnosis. Consequently the role of liver biopsy in diagnosis of HCC has declined. The imaging diagnosis relies on the hallmark of arterial hypervascularity with portal venous washout. However, with recent advances in genomics and proteomics a great number of potential serum and tissue markers have been identified and are being developed as new candidate markers for both diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, and may increase the need for liver biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Andreana
- Lorenzo Andreana, Graziella Isgrò, Maria Pleguezuelo, Giacomo Germani, Andrew K Burroughs, The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Center, Departement of Surgery, Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
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Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cirrhotic Liver Enhancement Using Gd-EOB-DTPA. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2009; 193:1053-60. [DOI: 10.2214/ajr.08.1946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Golfieri R, Marini E, Bazzocchi A, Fusco F, Trevisani F, Sama C, Mazzella G, Cavuto S, Piscaglia F, Bolondi L. Small ( Radiol Med 2009;114:1239-66. [PMID: 19697104 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-009-0439-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Accepted: 02/10/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We prospectively compared gadoliniumenhanced magnetic resonance imaging (dynamic MRI), superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) (ferucarbotran) MRI and multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) and the combination of dynamic MRI plus MDCT vs. dynamic MRI plus SPIO-MRI (double-contrast MRI: DC-MRI) for the detection of small ( MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty-three patients with liver cirrhosis and suspicious nodules detected during ultrasound (US) surveillance underwent DC-MRI in the same imaging session and MDCT within 15 days. The final diagnosis was established at pathology on the explanted liver (n=10), resection (n=6) and biopsy (n=38) specimens or at 2-years' follow-up (n=9). RESULTS One hundred and twenty-three nodules were detected: 87 were confirmed HCCs in 54 patients. The accuracy of SPIO-MRI and dynamic MRI were similar, both being superior to MDCT. Dynamic MRI demonstrated the highest sensitivity (83.9%; p<0.001). especially for lesions <1 cm (90.6%) - coupled with a lower specificity (36.1%) than SPIO-MRI, particularly in subcentimeter lesions (28.6%). SPIO-MRI demonstrated the highest sensitivity for nodules >1 cm and the highest specificity (83.3%) superior to dynamic MRI (p<0.0001). In the per-lesion analysis, SPIO-MRI demonstrated a positive predictive value higher than dynamic MRI (p=0.0059) and than both the combinations dynamic MRI/MDCT and DC-MRI (p=0.0021 and p=0.0087, respectively). DC-MRI showed the highest sensitivity (97.7%) and accuracy (78.9%), detecting hypovascular and atypical HCCs >1 cm. Furthermore its per-patient negative predictive value was the highest (100%), and significantly higher than all the other methods. CONCLUSIONS DC-MRI is the most sensitive and accurate method and can be confidently used as a single-step procedure for the detection of small HCCs, with the exception of lesions <1 cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Golfieri
- Radiologia Malpighi, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Università di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, 40138, Bologna, Italy.
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Marin D, Di Martino M, Guerrisi A, De Filippis G, Rossi M, Ginanni Corradini S, Masciangelo R, Catalano C, Passariello R. Hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis: qualitative comparison of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced MR imaging and multiphasic 64-section CT. Radiology 2009; 251:85-95. [PMID: 19332848 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2511080400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To prospectively investigate whether combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase magnetic resonance (MR) images can improve the accuracy of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced MR imaging in the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared with either dynamic MR or multiphasic multidetector computed tomographic (CT) images alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS Institutional review board approval and informed patient consent were obtained. Fifty-two patients (39 men, 13 women; mean age, 68 years; range, 38-81 years) suspected of having HCC underwent gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced MR imaging and multiphasic 64-section multidetector CT. Images were qualitatively analyzed independently by three observers in three separate reading sessions. The alternating free-response receiver operating characteristic (AFROC) method was used to analyze the results. Differences in sensitivity and positive predictive values were calculated at a statistical significance of P < .05. RESULTS A total of 67 HCCs were detected in 36 patients. The mean area under the AFROC curve (A(z)) was significantly higher for either the combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase MR images (A(z) = 0.95) or dynamic MR images alone (0.91) than for CT images (0.77) (P = .01 for both comparisons). The mean sensitivity of combined interpretation of MR images (0.72) was significantly higher than those of dynamic MR images alone (0.63) and multidetector CT images (0.61) (P = .008 and .001, respectively). The mean positive predictive value was not significantly different among the three imaging sets. CONCLUSION The combined interpretation of dynamic and hepatobiliary phase MR images improves diagnostic accuracy of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced MR imaging for the detection of HCC compared with either dynamic MR or multiphasic multidetector CT images alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Marin
- Department of Radiological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome 00161, Italy
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Liberal policy in living donor liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: lessons learned. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:377-84. [PMID: 18594985 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0319-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2008] [Accepted: 05/06/2008] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) that do not fulfil accepted tumor criteria continues to be a matter of controversy. The aim of this study was to evaluate survival and prognostic factors associated with a liberal exclusionary policy. MATERIAL AND METHODS This is an analysis of data collected prospectively on 57 HCC patients who underwent LDLT at our institution between April 1998 and January 2007. RESULTS Overall 3-year survival was 62%; this increased to 71% when 45-day mortality was excluded from the analysis. Age proved to be a predictor of survival irrespective of the 45-day mortality. In contrast, the Model for End stage Liver Disease (MELD) score predicted survival only when 45-day mortality was included in the analysis, while alpha fetoprotein (AFP) level predicted survival only when it was excluded. Significant cut-off values were patient age of over 60 years, MELD score above 22, and AFP level greater than 400 ng/ml. A scoring system was developed. Survival rate at 3 years--including 45-day mortality--was 72% for score =2 and 41% for score >2 (P = 0.0146). When 45-day mortality was excluded, the survival rate at 3 years was 90% for score =2 and 32% for score >2 (P = 0.00002). CONCLUSIONS Our results could further enhance current guidelines on age, MELD score, and AFP level for patients with HCC being evaluated to undergo LDLT.
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50
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Andersson KL, Salomon JA, Chung RT, Goldie SJ. Cost effectiveness of alternative surveillance strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 6:1418-24. [PMID: 18848905 PMCID: PMC4340842 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2008.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Revised: 07/20/2008] [Accepted: 08/10/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The increasing incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the United States has significant health and economic consequences. Ultrasound (US) surveillance is recommended for patients with cirrhosis because of their high risk of HCC and improving treatment outcomes for small tumors. We assessed the costs, clinical benefits, and cost effectiveness of US surveillance and alternative strategies for HCC in cirrhosis using a computer-based state transition model with parameters derived from available literature. METHODS Our model compared a policy of no surveillance with 6 surveillance strategies in cirrhotic patients ages 50 years and older in the United States: (1) annual US, (2) semiannual US, (3) semiannual US with alpha-fetoprotein, (4) annual computed tomography (CT), (5) semiannual CT, and (6) annual magnetic resonance imaging. The number of screening tests needed to detect one small HCC, cost per treated HCC, lifetime costs, quality-adjusted life expectancy, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated. RESULTS Semiannual US surveillance for HCC in cirrhosis increased quality-adjusted life expectancy by 8.6 months on average, but extended it nearly 3.5 years in patients with small treated tumors. Semiannual US surveillance had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $30,700 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained, and was more cost effective than the alternative surveillance strategies using a threshold of $50,000 per QALY gained. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for the combined alpha-fetoprotein/US and annual CT strategies exceeded $50,000/QALY unless the sensitivity and specificity of US decreased to less than 65% and 60%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Semiannual US surveillance for HCC in cirrhotic patients improves clinical outcomes at a reasonable cost.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raymond T. Chung
- Harvard Medical School and GI Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital
| | - Sue J. Goldie
- Program in Health Decision Science, Harvard School of Public Health
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