1
|
Okino K, Wakasugi S, Ichihara S. Hyperechogenicity and histopathological features of focal liver lesions. J Med Ultrason (2001) 2024:10.1007/s10396-024-01475-3. [PMID: 38958787 DOI: 10.1007/s10396-024-01475-3] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The identification and accurate diagnosis of focal liver lesions are important in modern medicine, where diagnostic radiology plays an essential role. This review aimed to examine the hyperechogenicity and histopathological features of focal liver lesions. Hyperechogenic liver lesions can be either benign or malignant. Evidence shows that hyperechogenicity is caused by factors such as fat deposition, sinusoidal dilation, peliotic changes, and pseudoglandular patterns. Fat deposition is a common cause of increased echogenicity in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Meanwhile, sinusoidal dilation and peliotic changes are more frequently observed in larger HCC nodules. Pseudoglandular patterns, characterized by the reflection of ultrasound waves at the walls of numerous acini, are associated with hyperechogenicity in well-to-moderately differentiated HCCs. Moreover, this review comprehensively examined the histological features that may cause hyperechogenic internal echoes in not only HCCs but also localized liver lesions (metastases of adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine neoplasm, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, cavernous hemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia, and angiomyolipoma). To make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate management, it is important to understand the histopathological basis for hyperechogenicity in focal liver lesions. By maximizing the accuracy of imaging studies and enhancing the radiology-pathology correlation, unnecessary biopsies can be avoided, thereby reducing potential complications and mortality. This review can help facilitate the effective management of patients with focal liver lesions, thereby resulting in timely and appropriate treatment decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kumiko Okino
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Wakasugi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kanto Central Hospital of the Mutual Aid Association of Public School Teachers, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin Ichihara
- Department of Surgical Pathology, Sapporo Kosei General Hospital, Sapporo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xing F, Ma Q, Lu J, Zhu W, Du S, Jiang J, Zhang T, Xing W. Nodule-in-nodule architecture of hepatocellular carcinomas: enhancement patterns in the hepatobiliary phase and pathological features. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2024:10.1007/s00261-024-04259-y. [PMID: 38913136 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-024-04259-y] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the enhancement patterns in the hepatobiliary phase (HBP) and pathological features of nodule-in-nodule-type hepatocellular carcinoma (NIN-HCC) patients. METHODS In this single-institution retrospective study, 27 consecutive cirrhosis patients with 29 histologically confirmed NIN-HCCs who underwent preoperative examination via Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI were enrolled from January 2016 to September 2023. Two blinded radiologists assessed the imaging features of both the inner and outer nodules in NIN-HCCs to reach a consensus on the Liver Imaging Reporting & Data System (LI-RADS) categories of the lesions. Based on the different enhancement patterns of the inner and outer nodules in the HBP, NIN-HCCs were classified into different groups and further divided into different types. Imaging features and LI-RADS categories were subsequently compared among the groups. Pathological findings for NIN-HCCs were also evaluated. RESULTS Among 29 NIN-HCCs, all inner nodules showed hypervascularity, with a maximum diameter of 13.2 ± 5.5 mm; 51.7% (15/29) showed "wash-in with washout" enhancement; and 48.3% (14/29) showed "wash-in without washout" enhancement. All outer nodules showed hypovascularity, with a maximum diameter of 25.6 ± 7.3 mm, and 51.9% (14/29) showed a washout appearance on PVP. Among all the lesions, the maximum diameter was 27.5 ± 6.8 mm; 12 (41.4%) lesions were LR-4, and 17 (58.6%) lesions were LR-5. NIN-HCCs were classified into hypointense (62.1%, 18/29) and isointense (37.9%, 11/29) groups based on the signal intensity of the outer nodules in the HBP. In the hypointense group, 2 (6.9%) of the inner nodules were hypointense (type A), 11 (37.9%) were isointense (type B), and 5 (17.2%) were hyperintense (type C) compared to the background hypointense outer nodules. In the isointense group, 9 (31.0%) of the inner nodules were hypointense (type D), 2 (6.9%) were isointense (type E), and no (0%) was hyperintense (type F) compared to the background isointense outer nodules. There were no significant differences in the diameter, dynamic enhancement patterns of the inner or outer nodules, or LI-RADS scores of the lesions between the hypointense group and the isointense group (all P > 0.05). Histologically, the inner nodules of NIN-HCCs were mainly composed of moderately differentiated HCC (75.9% 22/29), whereas the outer nodules consisted of either well-differentiated HCC or high-grade dysplastic nodules (HGDNs). CONCLUSIONS NIN-HCCs exhibit specific MRI findings closely associated with their pathological features. The spectrum of HBP enhancement patterns provides valuable insights into the underlying cell biological mechanisms of these lesions. NIN-HCC subtypes may be used as a morphologic marker in the early stage of multistep hepatocarcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xing
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qinrong Ma
- Department of Pathology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiang Lu
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenjing Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sheng Du
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jifeng Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University and Nantong Third People's Hospital, #99 Youth Middle Road, Chongchuan District, Nantong, 226000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wei Xing
- Department of Radiology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No. 185 Juqian Street, Tianning District, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee J, Lee KJ, Hwang DW, Hong SM. Malignant potential of neuroendocrine microtumor of the pancreas harboring high-grade transformation: lesson learned from a patient with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome. J Pathol Transl Med 2024; 58:91-97. [PMID: 38499005 PMCID: PMC10948253 DOI: 10.4132/jptm.2024.02.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine microtumor (PNEMT) is a neuroendocrine tumor (NET) < 0.5 cm in diameter, and it is considered benign. We report a PNEMT with high-grade transformation (HGT). A man in his 60s with von Hippel-Lindau syndrome underwent surgical resection of a NET. A second sub-centimeter nodule with a nodule-in-nodule pattern was discovered. The 0.4 cm outer nodule contained clear columnar cells with round nuclei and indistinct nucleoli, while the 0.1 cm inner nodule had eosinophilic cells with an increased nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio, vesicular nuclei, and prominent nucleoli. Tumor cells in the outer and inner nodules were synaptophysin and chromogranin positive. Only the inner nodule was p53 positive, while the outer nodule was exclusively positive for carbonic anhydrase 9 and vimentin. The Ki-67 labeling indices for the outer and inner nodules were 2.1% (grade 1) and 44.3% (grade 3), respectively. This nodule was determined to be a PNEMT with HGT. Our findings suggest that a PNEMT may not always be benign and can undergo HGT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jongwon Lee
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dae Wook Hwang
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Mo Hong
- Department of Pathology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kong B, Zhou J, Wang H, Li Y, Pan Y, Zhu H, Zhang Q, Fan Q, Wang X, Zhang G. Histopathological growth pattern evolution of tumor in VX2 liver cancer model. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 244:154401. [PMID: 36905696 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The histopathological growth pattern (HGP) is a morphological reflection of interactions between cancer cells and the surrounding tissue, and has been identified with a remarkably predictive value in liver metastases. However, there is still a lack of studies on HGP of primary liver cancer even furtherly on HGP evolution. We employed VX2 tumor-bearing rabbits as the primary liver cancer model of which tumor size and distant metastasis were investigated. HGP assessment and computed tomography scanning was performed in four cohorts of different time points to map the HGP evolution. Additionally, Fibrin deposition and neovascularization were evaluated by Masson staining and immunohistochemical analysis of CD31, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1A) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Tumors displayed exponential growth in the VX2 liver cancer model, but these tumor-bearing animals did not show any visible metastasis until they reached a specific stage of development. Correspondingly, the components of HGPs changed along with the tumor growth. The proportion of desmoplastic HGP (dHGP) decreased initially and then grew, but in contrast, the level of replacement HGP (rHGP) rose from the 7th day, reached a peak at around the 21st day, and then appeared drop. Importantly, the collagen deposition and expression of HIF1A and VEGF correlated with dHGP, while CD31 did not. HGP evolution presents a two-way switch including dHGP to rHGP and rHGP to dHGP, in which the emergence of rHGP may be linked to metastases. HIF1A-VEGF partially participates in the HGP evolution and presumably plays a key role in the formation of dHGP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingtan Kong
- School of Graduates, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yinan Li
- School of Graduates, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yuancan Pan
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Hui Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Qingsheng Fan
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
| | - Xiaomin Wang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
| | - Ganlin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100010, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chartampilas E, Rafailidis V, Georgopoulou V, Kalarakis G, Hatzidakis A, Prassopoulos P. Current Imaging Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163997. [PMID: 36010991 PMCID: PMC9406360 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The role of imaging in the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has significantly evolved and expanded beyond the plain radiological confirmation of the tumor based on the typical appearance in a multiphase contrast-enhanced CT or MRI examination. The introduction of hepatobiliary contrast agents has enabled the diagnosis of hepatocarcinogenesis at earlier stages, while the application of ultrasound contrast agents has drastically upgraded the role of ultrasound in the diagnostic algorithms. Newer quantitative techniques assessing blood perfusion on CT and MRI not only allow earlier diagnosis and confident differentiation from other lesions, but they also provide biomarkers for the evaluation of treatment response. As distinct HCC subtypes are identified, their correlation with specific imaging features holds great promise for estimating tumor aggressiveness and prognosis. This review presents the current role of imaging and underlines its critical role in the successful management of patients with HCC. Abstract Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer related death worldwide. Radiology has traditionally played a central role in HCC management, ranging from screening of high-risk patients to non-invasive diagnosis, as well as the evaluation of treatment response and post-treatment follow-up. From liver ultrasonography with or without contrast to dynamic multiple phased CT and dynamic MRI with diffusion protocols, great progress has been achieved in the last decade. Throughout the last few years, pathological, biological, genetic, and immune-chemical analyses have revealed several tumoral subtypes with diverse biological behavior, highlighting the need for the re-evaluation of established radiological methods. Considering these changes, novel methods that provide functional and quantitative parameters in addition to morphological information are increasingly incorporated into modern diagnostic protocols for HCC. In this way, differential diagnosis became even more challenging throughout the last few years. Use of liver specific contrast agents, as well as CT/MRI perfusion techniques, seem to not only allow earlier detection and more accurate characterization of HCC lesions, but also make it possible to predict response to treatment and survival. Nevertheless, several limitations and technical considerations still exist. This review will describe and discuss all these imaging modalities and their advances in the imaging of HCC lesions in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic livers. Sensitivity and specificity rates, method limitations, and technical considerations will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Chartampilas
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Vasileios Rafailidis
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vivian Georgopoulou
- Radiology Department, Ippokratio General Hospital of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kalarakis
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Division of Radiology, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, 14152 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Radiology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Adam Hatzidakis
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panos Prassopoulos
- Radiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Satoh K. Biochemical analysis of the initial carcinogenic changes that induce preneoplastic and neoplastic cell populations during chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Anal Biochem 2022; 643:114542. [PMID: 35114181 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114542] [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: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
To analyze the initial carcinogenic changes that induce preneoplastic and neoplastic cell populations in the rat liver, a short-term in vivo promotion assay method was developed. Preneoplastic foci and nodules were quantitated with glutathione S-transferase P-form (GST-P) and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase. Among the four agents tested, benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) demonstrated the strongest promotor activity, producing very large nodules composed of 218 to 220 cells in the rat liver. In addition, a choline/methionine-deficient (CMD) diet, which strongly inhibits protein synthesis, exhibited lower but distinct promotive activity, giving rise to large nodules composed of 211 to 213 cells. Based on the collected stereologic and biochemical data as well as the results of DNA microarray analysis, preneoplastic foci and nodules were strongly indicated to grow without cell division. The absence of cell division indicates the absence of mutations in the genetic mechanism, and vice versa; thus, preneoplastic cell induction can be considered nongenetic. Furthermore, the nodules were markedly more susceptible to promoter agents than hepatocytes as to die of necrosis. Based on these experimental findings, neoplastic cell induction was logically deduced to be nongenetic. The present analysis may help improve the knowledge of the "unknowable mechanism of cancer initiation" of rat chemical hepatocarcinogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimihiko Satoh
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hirosaki University, Hon-Cho 66-1, Hirosaki, 036-8564, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System Comprehensive Guide: MR Imaging Edition. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2021; 29:375-387. [PMID: 34243924 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2021.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardizing the lexicon, technique, interpretation, reporting, and data collection of liver imaging. Developed specifically for assessment of liver observations in patients at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), LI-RADS classifies hepatic observations on the basis of the probability of their being HCC, from LR-1 (definitely benign) to LR-5 (definitely HCC). This article discusses the technical requirements, major features, and ancillary features of and a systematic approach for using the LI-RADS diagnostic algorithm, with special emphasis on MR imaging.
Collapse
|
8
|
Histological Heterogeneity of Primary Liver Cancers: Clinical Relevance, Diagnostic Pitfalls and the Pathologist's Role. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13122871. [PMID: 34201284 PMCID: PMC8228556 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Primary liver cancers (PLCs) mainly comprise hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), and combined (c)HCC-CCA. Both small duct types iCCA (a subtype pf iCCA) and cHCC-CCA are known to be tumors with histological heterogeneity. Understanding key tumor heterogeneity is crucial as it reflects tumor aggressiveness, patient outcome, treatment choice, and is predictive of treatment efficacy. In addition, PLCs often present with multiple liver tumors, which can be a combination of different types of PLCs or HCCs (intrahepatic metastasis or multicentric occurrence), and the pathological interpretation plays an important role in these cases. The aim of this review is to clarify the pathological features of HCC, iCCA, and cHCC-CCA, including their diagnostic pitfalls, molecular profiles, and the correlation between tumor subtypes and treatment choice. Abstract Primary liver cancers (PLCs) mainly comprise hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA), and cHCC-CCA. Combined HCC-CCA and small duct type iCCA show similar clinical presentations, and their histological features are more complex than seen in HCC. Therefore, while their treatment strategy differs, it is difficult to properly diagnose these tumors. Currently, HCC is the only tumor that can be treated by liver transplantation. In addition, small duct type iCCA harbors IDH1/2 mutations and FGFR2 fusions, which can be used for targeted therapy. Thus, improving diagnostic accuracy is crucial. A further point to note is that PLCs often present as multiple liver tumors, and they can be a combination of different types of PLCs or HCCs. In the case of HCCs, two different scenarios are possible, namely intrahepatic metastasis, or multicentric occurrence. Therefore, it is essential to characterize the type of multiple liver tumors. This review aims to clarify the pathological features of HCC, iCCA and cHCC-CCA, including their diagnostic pitfalls and clinical relevance. It is designed to be of use to clinicians who are dealing with PLCs, to provide a better understanding of the pathology of these tumors, and to enable a more accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment choice.
Collapse
|
9
|
Kovac JD, Ivanovic A, Milovanovic T, Micev M, Alessandrino F, Gore RM. An overview of hepatocellular carcinoma with atypical enhancement pattern: spectrum of magnetic resonance imaging findings with pathologic correlation. Radiol Oncol 2021; 55:130-143. [PMID: 33544992 PMCID: PMC8042819 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2021-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the setting of cirrhotic liver, the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is straightforward when typical imaging findings consisting of arterial hypervascularity followed by portal-venous washout are present in nodules larger than 1 cm. However, due to the complexity of hepatocarcinogenesis, not all HCCs present with typical vascular behaviour. Atypical forms such as hypervascular HCC without washout, isovascular or even hypovascular HCC can pose diagnostic dilemmas. In such cases, it is important to consider also the appearance of the nodules on diffusion-weighted imaging and hepatobiliary phase. In this regard, diffusion restriction and hypointensity on hepatobiliary phase are suggestive of malignancy. If both findings are present in hypervascular lesion without washout, or even in iso- or hypovascular lesion in cirrhotic liver, HCC should be considered. Moreover, other ancillary imaging findings such as the presence of the capsule, fat content, signal intensity on T2-weighted image favour the diagnosis of HCC. Another form of atypical HCCs are lesions which show hyperintensity on hepatobiliary phase. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to provide an overview of HCCs with atypical enhancement pattern, and focus on their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. CONCLUSIONS In order to correctly characterize atypical HCC lesions in cirrhotic liver it is important to consider not only vascular behaviour of the nodule, but also ancillary MRI features, such as diffusion restriction, hepatobiliary phase hypointensity, and T2-weighted hyperintensity. Fat content, corona enhancement, mosaic architecture are other MRI feautures which favour the diagnosis of HCC even in the absence of typical vascular profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Djokic Kovac
- Center for Radiology and MRI, Clinical Center Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade; Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Ivanovic
- Center for Radiology and MRI, Clinical Center Serbia, School of Medicine, University of Belgrade; Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Milovanovic
- Clinic for Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Clinical Center of Serbia School of Medicine, University of Belgrade; Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marjan Micev
- Departament of Digestive Pathology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Francesco Alessandrino
- Division of Abdominal Imaging, Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Richard M. Gore
- Department of Gastrointestinal Radiology, NorthShore University, Evanston, Pritzker School of Medicine at the University of Chicago, ChicagoUSA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Takeda H, Takai A, Kumagai K, Iguchi E, Arasawa S, Eso Y, Shimizu T, Ueda Y, Taura K, Uemoto S, Kita R, Haga H, Marusawa H, Fujimoto A, Seno H. Multiregional whole‐genome sequencing of hepatocellular carcinoma with nodule‐in‐nodule appearance reveals stepwise cancer evolution. J Pathol 2020; 252:398-410. [DOI: 10.1002/path.5533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Haruhiko Takeda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Atsushi Takai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Ken Kumagai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Eriko Iguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Soichi Arasawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Yuji Eso
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Takahiro Shimizu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Yoshihide Ueda
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Kojiro Taura
- Division of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Transplant Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Division of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic and Transplant Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kita
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka Red Cross Hospital Osaka Japan
| | - Hironori Haga
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology Kyoto University Hospital Kyoto Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Marusawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Osaka Red Cross Hospital Osaka Japan
| | - Akihiro Fujimoto
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| | - Hiroshi Seno
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University Kyoto Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kim JH, Joo I, Lee JM. Atypical Appearance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Mimickers: How to Solve Challenging Cases Using Gadoxetic Acid-Enhanced Liver Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Korean J Radiol 2020; 20:1019-1041. [PMID: 31270973 PMCID: PMC6609440 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2018.0636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be diagnosed noninvasively with contrast-enhanced dynamic computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasonography on the basis of its hallmark imaging features of arterial phase hyperenhancement and washout on portal or delayed phase images. However, approximately 40% of HCCs show atypical imaging features, posing a significant diagnostic challenge for radiologists. Another challenge for radiologists in clinical practice is the presentation of many HCC mimickers such as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, combined HCC-cholangiocarcinoma, arterioportal shunt, and hemangioma in the cirrhotic liver. The differentiation of HCCs from these mimickers on preoperative imaging studies is of critical importance. Hence, we will review the typical and atypical imaging features of HCCs and the imaging features of its common mimickers. In addition, we will discuss how to solve these challenges in practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hyun Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ijin Joo
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kuczynski EA, Vermeulen PB, Pezzella F, Kerbel RS, Reynolds AR. Vessel co-option in cancer. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2019; 16:469-493. [PMID: 30816337 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-019-0181-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 262] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
All solid tumours require a vascular supply in order to progress. Although the ability to induce angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth) has long been regarded as essential to this purpose, thus far, anti-angiogenic therapies have shown only modest efficacy in patients. Importantly, overshadowed by the literature on tumour angiogenesis is a long-standing, but continually emerging, body of research indicating that tumours can grow instead by hijacking pre-existing blood vessels of the surrounding nonmalignant tissue. This process, termed vessel co-option, is a frequently overlooked mechanism of tumour vascularization that can influence disease progression, metastasis and response to treatment. In this Review, we describe the evidence that tumours located at numerous anatomical sites can exploit vessel co-option. We also discuss the proposed molecular mechanisms involved and the multifaceted implications of vessel co-option for patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Kuczynski
- Bioscience, Oncology, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK. .,Biological Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Peter B Vermeulen
- HistoGeneX, Antwerp, Belgium.,Translational Cancer Research Unit, GZA Hospitals St Augustinus, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium.,Tumour Biology Team, Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Francesco Pezzella
- Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Robert S Kerbel
- Biological Sciences Platform, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrew R Reynolds
- Tumour Biology Team, Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK. .,Oncology Translational Medicine Unit, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cannella R, Calandra A, Cabibbo G, Midiri M, Tang A, Brancatelli G. Hyperintense nodule-in-nodule on hepatobiliary phase arising within hypovascular hypointense nodule: Outcome and rate of hypervascular transformation. Eur J Radiol 2019; 120:108689. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2019.108689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
14
|
|
15
|
Krishan S, Dhiman RK, Kalra N, Sharma R, Baijal SS, Arora A, Gulati A, Eapan A, Verma A, Keshava S, Mukund A, Deva S, Chaudhary R, Ganesan K, Taneja S, Gorsi U, Gamanagatti S, Madhusudan KS, Puri P, Shalimar, Govil S, Wadhavan M, Saigal S, Kumar A, Thapar S, Duseja A, Saraf N, Khandelwal A, Mukhopadyay S, Gulati A, Shetty N, Verma N. Joint Consensus Statement of the Indian National Association for Study of the Liver and Indian Radiological and Imaging Association for the Diagnosis and Imaging of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Incorporating Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2019; 9:625-651. [PMID: 31695253 PMCID: PMC6823668 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the 6th most common cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. There are currently no universally accepted practice guidelines for the diagnosis of HCC on imaging owing to the regional differences in epidemiology, target population, diagnostic imaging modalities, and staging and transplant eligibility. Currently available regional and national guidelines include those from the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD), the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver, the Japan Society of Hepatology, the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group, Hong Kong, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network in the United States. India with its large population and a diverse health infrastructure faces challenges unique to its population in diagnosing HCC. Recently, American Association have introduced a Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LIRADS, version 2017, 2018) as an attempt to standardize the acquisition, interpretation, and reporting of liver lesions on imaging and hence improve the coherence between radiologists and clinicians and provide guidance for the management of HCC. The aim of the present consensus was to find a common ground in reporting and interpreting liver lesions pertaining to HCC on imaging keeping LIRADSv2018 in mind.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Krishan
- Department of Radiology, Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, India
| | - Radha K. Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India,Address for correspondence: Radha Krishan Dhiman, MD, DM, FACG, FRCP, FAASLD, Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
| | - Navin Kalra
- Department of Radiology, Postgraduate Institute Of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Raju Sharma
- Department of Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjay S. Baijal
- Department of Diagnostic and Intervention Radiology, Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, India
| | - Anil Arora
- Institute Of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ajay Gulati
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Anu Eapan
- Department of Radiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Ashish Verma
- Department of Radiology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Shyam Keshava
- Department of Radiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Amar Mukund
- Department of Intervention Radiology, Institute of liver and biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - S. Deva
- Department of Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi Chaudhary
- Department of Radiology, Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, India
| | | | - Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ujjwal Gorsi
- Department of Radiology, Postgraduate Institute Of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Kumble S. Madhusudan
- Department of Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Pankaj Puri
- Institute Of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Shalimar
- Department of GastroEnterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Manav Wadhavan
- Institute of Digestive and Liver Diseases, BLK Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Sanjiv Saigal
- Department of Hepatology, Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Institute Of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Shallini Thapar
- Department of Radiology, Institute of liver and biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ajay Duseja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Neeraj Saraf
- Department of Hepatology, Medanta Hospital, Gurgaon, India
| | | | | | - Ajay Gulati
- Department of Radiology, Postgraduate Institute Of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nitin Shetty
- Department of Radiology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Kolkata, India
| | - Nipun Verma
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cerny M, Chernyak V, Olivié D, Billiard JS, Murphy-Lavallée J, Kielar AZ, Elsayes KM, Bourque L, Hooker JC, Sirlin CB, Tang A. LI-RADS Version 2018 Ancillary Features at MRI. Radiographics 2018; 38:1973-2001. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.2018180052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
17
|
Rudini N, Novello C, Destro A, Riboldi E, Donadon M, Viganò L, Morenghi E, Roncalli M, Di Tommaso L. Phenotypic and molecular changes in nodule-in-nodule hepatocellular carcinoma with pathogenetic implications. Histopathology 2018; 73:601-611. [DOI: 10.1111/his.13659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Rudini
- Pathology Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Chiara Novello
- Pathology Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Annarita Destro
- Pathology Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Elena Riboldi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Università del Piemonte Orientale ‘Amedeo Avogadro’; Novara Itlay
| | - Matteo Donadon
- Surgical Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Humanitas University; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Luca Viganò
- Surgical Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Humanitas University; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Emanuela Morenghi
- Biostatistical Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Massimo Roncalli
- Pathology Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Humanitas University; Rozzano Milan Italy
| | - Luca Di Tommaso
- Pathology Unit; Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre; Rozzano Milan Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Humanitas University; Rozzano Milan Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Patella F, Pesapane F, Fumarola EM, Emili I, Spairani R, Angileri SA, Tresoldi S, Franceschelli G, Carrafiello G. CT-MRI LI-RADS v2017: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2018; 6:222-236. [PMID: 29951368 PMCID: PMC6018316 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2017.00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related deceases worldwide. Early diagnosis is essential for correct management and improvement of prognosis. Proposed for the first time in 2011 and updated for the last time in 2017, the Liver Imaging-Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardized interpretation and reporting of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) liver examinations, endorsed by the American College of Radiology to achieve congruence with HCC diagnostic criteria in at-risk populations. Understanding its algorithm is fundamental to correctly apply LI-RADS in clinical practice. In this pictorial review, we provide a guide for beginners, explaining LI-RADS indications, describing major and ancillary features and eventually elucidating the diagnostic algorithm with the use of some clinical examples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Patella
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Filippo Pesapane
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence to: Filippo Pesapane, Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Festa del Perdono 7, Milan 20122, Italy. Tel: +39-13012751123; Fax: +39-2-50323393; E-mail:
| | - Enrico Maria Fumarola
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Emili
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Riccardo Spairani
- Postgraduation School in Radiodiagnostics, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Alessio Angileri
- Department of Health Sciences, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Tresoldi
- Department of Health Sciences, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Franceschelli
- Department of Health Sciences, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Carrafiello
- Department of Health Sciences, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Radiofrequency Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with a "Nodule-in-Nodule" Appearance: Long-Term Follow-up and Clinical Implications. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 2016; 40:401-409. [PMID: 27933377 DOI: 10.1007/s00270-016-1525-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a "nodule-in-nodule" (NIN) appearance has unique histological characteristics as an early HCC. We assessed long-term therapeutic outcomes of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in HCC patients considering this appearance. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our Institutional Review Board approved this retrospective study, and the requirement for written informed consent was waived. Between May 2006 and April 2012, a total of 572 patients underwent RFA for single HCC as a first-line treatment. Patients were divided into a NIN HCC group (n = 22) and a non-NIN HCC group (n = 550), according to the NIN feature on pretreatment imaging studies. Local tumor progression (LTP) and disease-free survival (DFS) were compared. Prognostic factors for LTP and DFS were assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model. RESULTS The cumulative LTP rates were 4.6 and 4.6% at 3 and 5 years, respectively, in the NIN HCC group, and 15.9 and 20.5% in the non-NIN HCC group, with borderline statistical significance (p = 0.085). The corresponding DFS rates were 53.8 and 37.7% in the NIN HCC group and 44.0 and 31.7% in the non-NIN HCC group, with no significant difference (p = 0.318). Although on multivariate analysis only tumor size was a significant prognostic factor for LTP, there was a trend bordering on the significance for the NIN feature [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.19; p = 0.099]. However, it was not a significant factor for DFS (HR = 0.18; p = 0.682). CONCLUSIONS The NIN appearance, a rare (4%, 22/550) but unique feature of early HCC, may be a favorable prognostic factor for RFA in terms of local tumor control.
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Cho ES, Choi JY. MRI features of hepatocellular carcinoma related to biologic behavior. Korean J Radiol 2015; 16:449-64. [PMID: 25995679 PMCID: PMC4435980 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2015.16.3.449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Imaging studies including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play a crucial role in the diagnosis and staging of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Several recent studies reveal a large number of MRI features related to the prognosis of HCC. In this review, we discuss various MRI features of HCC and their implications for the diagnosis and prognosis as imaging biomarkers. As a whole, the favorable MRI findings of HCC are small size, encapsulation, intralesional fat, high apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, and smooth margins or hyperintensity on the hepatobiliary phase of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI. Unfavorable findings include large size, multifocality, low ADC value, non-smooth margins or hypointensity on hepatobiliary phase images. MRI findings are potential imaging biomarkers in patients with HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Suk Cho
- Department of Radiology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 135-720, Korea
| | - Jin-Young Choi
- Department of Radiology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 120-752, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Choi JY, Lee JM, Sirlin CB. CT and MR imaging diagnosis and staging of hepatocellular carcinoma: part II. Extracellular agents, hepatobiliary agents, and ancillary imaging features. Radiology 2015; 273:30-50. [PMID: 25247563 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.14132362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 356] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging play critical roles in the diagnosis and staging of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The second article of this two-part review discusses basic concepts of diagnosis and staging, reviews the diagnostic performance of CT and MR imaging with extracellular contrast agents and of MR imaging with hepatobiliary contrast agents, and examines in depth the major and ancillary imaging features used in the diagnosis and characterization of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Young Choi
- From the Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiological Science, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea (J.Y.C.); Department of Radiology and Institute of Radiation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea (J.M.L.); and Liver Imaging Group, Department of Radiology, University of California-San Diego Medical Center, 408 Dickinson St, San Diego, CA 92103-8226 (C.B.S.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Joo I, Kim H, Lee JM. Cancer stem cells in primary liver cancers: pathological concepts and imaging findings. Korean J Radiol 2015; 16:50-68. [PMID: 25598674 PMCID: PMC4296278 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2015.16.1.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is accumulating evidence that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an integral role in the initiation of hepatocarcinogenesis and the maintaining of tumor growth. Liver CSCs derived from hepatic stem/progenitor cells have the potential to differentiate into either hepatocytes or cholangiocytes. Primary liver cancers originating from CSCs constitute a heterogeneous histopathologic spectrum, including hepatocellular carcinoma, combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma, and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with various radiologic manifestations. In this article, we reviewed the recent concepts of CSCs in the development of primary liver cancers, focusing on their pathological and radiological findings. Awareness of the pathological concepts and imaging findings of primary liver cancers with features of CSCs is critical for accurate diagnosis, prediction of outcome, and appropriate treatment options for patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ijin Joo
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Haeryoung Kim
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam 463-707, Korea
| | - Jeong Min Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
|
25
|
Abstract
Over 3 decades have passed since the first report of small hepatocellular carcinoma (SHCC), which has been confirmed as one of the most significant prognostic factors. Obviously, it is indeed very important to know when an early SHCC will become more aggressive and lead to worse clinical outcome once it grows beyond a critical size. However, so far, no consensus has been achieved on the size criterion for SHCC among different authors or different clinical practice guidelines that have been used worldwide, although there are currently numerous cutoff values for tumor size used to define SHCC, including 5, 3 and 2 cm in diameter, etc. Herein, based on our current understanding concerning the pathobiological features of SHCC, we briefly review the history of SHCC study, analyze the advantages and limitations of the above criteria for SHCC, and discuss the pathobiological characteristics as well as the clinical significance of SHCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ming Cong
- Department of Pathology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Changhai Road 225, Shanghai, 200438, China.
| | - Meng-Chao Wu
- Department of Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Changhai Road 225, Shanghai, 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Koga H, Tsedensodnom O, Tomimaru Y, Walker EJ, Lee HC, Kim KM, Yano H, Wands JR, Kim M. Loss of the SxxSS motif in a human T-cell factor-4 isoform confers hypoxia resistance to liver cancer: an oncogenic switch in Wnt signaling. PLoS One 2012; 7:e39981. [PMID: 22768190 PMCID: PMC3386968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0039981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Aberrantly activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling is important in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Downstream gene expressions involving the Wnt/β-catenin cascade occur through T-cell factor (TCF) proteins. Here, we show the oncogenic potential of human TCF-4 isoforms based on the expression of a single conserved SxxSS motif. METHODS We investigated the TCF-4J and K isoform pair characterized by the presence (K) or absence (J) of the SxxSS motif. The mRNA expression profiles were examined in 47 pairs of human HCCs and adjacent non-cancerous liver tissues by RT-PCR. Proliferation, sphere assays and immunoblot analysis were performed under normoxia and hypoxia conditions. The ability of HCC cells overexpressing TCF-4J (J cells) and K (K cells) to grow as solid tumors in nude mice was explored. RESULTS TCF-4J expression was significantly upregulated in HCC tumors compared to corresponding peritumor and normal liver and was preferentially expressed in poorly differentiated HCCs. In contrast, TCF-4K was downregulated in those same HCC tumors. TCF-4J-overexpressing HCC cells (J cells) revealed a survival advantage under hypoxic conditions, high proliferation rate and formation of aggregates/spheres compared to overexpression of TCF-4K (K cells). The hypoxic J cells had high expression levels of HIF-2α and EGFR as possible mechanisms to promote tumorigenesis. Increased stability of HIF-2α under hypoxia in J cells was associated with a decreased level of von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) protein, a known E3 ligase for HIF-αs. In a xenograft model, the J cells rapidly developed tumors compared to K cells. Tumor tissues derived from J cells exhibited high expression levels of HIF-2α and EGFR compared to the slow developing and small K cell derived tumors. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the specific TCF-4J isoform, which lacks a regulatory SxxSS motif, has robust tumor-initiating potential under hypoxic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Koga
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Orkhontuya Tsedensodnom
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Yoshito Tomimaru
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Evan J. Walker
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Han Chu Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang Mo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hirohisa Yano
- Department of Pathology, Kurume University, Kurume, Japan
| | - Jack R. Wands
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Miran Kim
- Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Jeong HT, Kim MJ, Kim YE, Park YN, Choi GH, Choi JS. MRI features of hepatocellular carcinoma expressing progenitor cell markers. Liver Int 2012; 32:430-40. [PMID: 22097930 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02640.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 08/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS To determine whether magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features differ between hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) with and without expression of progenitor cell markers, such as cytokeratin (CK) 19 and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM). METHODS Sixty-three patients with 71 HCCs who underwent surgery after preoperative gadoxetic acid-enhanced MR imaging were evaluated. HCCs expressing progenitor cell markers were defined as showing CK19 or EpCAM expression. MR imaging features, including the fat component, arterial enhancement (global vs. peripheral), dynamic enhancement (washout vs. progressive or persistent), nodule-in-nodule appearance and MR gross morphology (expanding vs. non-expanding), were compared between HCCs with and without progenitor cell markers expression. Lesion-to-liver signal intensity ratio (SIR) and apparent diffusion coefficient values were compared using an independent samples t-test. Early recurrence rates were also compared. RESULTS HCCs expressing progenitor cell markers were more commonly of the non-expanding type (P = 0.016), more frequently had a progressive or persistent dynamic enhancement pattern (P = 0.008) and less frequently demonstrated a nodule-in-nodule appearance (P = 0.009). HCCs expressing progenitor cell markers had significantly higher SIRs on diffusion-weighted images (DWIs) (b = 50 and 800, P < 0.001; b = 400, P = 0.001) and a significantly lower SIR on hepatobiliary phase images (P = 0.024). The early recurrence rate was significantly higher in patients with prior HCCs that expressed progenitor cell markers (P = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS HCCs expressing progenitor cell markers can be characterized according to their non-expanding MR gross morphology, persistent or progressive dynamic enhancement patterns, higher SIRs on DWIs, lower SIRs on hepatobiliary phase images and less frequent nodule-in-nodule appearance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Tae Jeong
- Department of Radiology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Differentiation of Hepatic Hyperintense Lesions Seen on Gadoxetic Acid–Enhanced Hepatobiliary Phase MRI. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2011; 197:W44-52. [DOI: 10.2214/ajr.10.5845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
29
|
Minami Y, Kudo M. Hepatic malignancies: Correlation between sonographic findings and pathological features. World J Radiol 2010; 2:249-56. [PMID: 21160664 PMCID: PMC2999329 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v2.i7.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2010] [Revised: 05/27/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography (US) findings are inevitably based on pathological features. Knowledge of the pathological features of hepatic malignancies such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver metastasis and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is essential for correct US diagnosis and appropriate management. One type of hepatocarcinogenesis is step-wise development from a low-grade dysplastic nodule (DN), high-grade DN, high-grade DN with malignant foci, and well-differentiated HCC, to classical HCC. The intranodular blood supply changes in accordance with this progression. Moreover, the malignant potential tends to change as the macroscopic configuration progresses. Therefore, typical US findings of advanced HCC are a mosaic pattern, septum formation, peripheral sonolucency (halo), lateral shadow produced by fibrotic pseudocapsule, posterior echo enhancement, arterial hypervascularity with dilated intratumoral blood sinusoids, and perinodular daughter nodule formation. Bull's eye appearance is a common presentation of metastases from gastrointestinal (GI) adenocarcinomas, and represents histological findings that show an area of central necrosis surrounded by a zonal area of viable tumor. Thick zonal area reflects the layer of viable cells that are fed by minute tumor vessels. US imaging features of liver metastases from the GI tract are as follows: Bull's eye appearance, multiple masses, irregular tumor border, arterial rim-like enhancement, and hypoenhancement in the late vascular phase. Most intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas are ductal adenocarcinomas. The bile ducts peripheral to the tumor are usually dilated because of obstruction by tumors. US imaging features of mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma are as follows: peripheral bile duct dilatation, irregular tumor border, arterial enhancement due to minute intratumoral blood sinusoids, and hypoenhancement in the late vascular phase.
Collapse
|
30
|
Application of magnetic resonance imaging in transgenic and chemical mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma. Mol Cancer 2010; 9:94. [PMID: 20429921 PMCID: PMC2868806 DOI: 10.1186/1476-4598-9-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Accepted: 04/29/2010] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. The molecular mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis are still poorly understood. Genetically modified mice are powerful tools to further investigate the mechanisms of HCC development. However, this approach is limited due to the lack of non-invasive detection methods in small rodents. The aim of this study was to establish a protocol for the non-invasive analysis of hepatocarcinogenesis in transgenic mice using a clinical 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner. RESULTS As a model system we used hepatocyte-specific c-myc transgenic mice developing hepatocellular carcinoma at the age of 12-15 months. The scans of the murine livers included axial T2-weighted turbo-spin echo (TSE) images, axial T1-weighted and contrast enhanced T1-weighted gradient echo (fast field echo, FFE) and sagittal true Fast Imaging with Steady state Precession (true-FISP) images. Application of contrast agent was performed via tail vein-catheter and confirmed by evaluation of the altered longitudinal relaxation T1 time before and after application. Through technical adaptation and optimization we could detect murine liver lesions with a minimum diameter of approximately 2 mm and provided histopathological evidence that these MR findings correspond to hepatocellular carcinoma. Tumor growth was repeatedly measured using sequential MRI with intervals of 5 weeks and subsequent volumetric analysis facilitating direct comparison of tumor progression between individual animals. We finally demonstrated that our protocol is also applicable in the widely- used chemical model of N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. CONCLUSION Our protocol allows the non-invasive, early detection of HCC and the subsequent continuous monitoring of liver tumorgenesis in transgenic mice thereby facilitating future investigations of transgenic tumor mouse models of the liver.
Collapse
|
31
|
Maruyama H, Takahashi M, Ishibashi H, Okabe S, Yoshikawa M, Yokosuka O. Changes in tumor vascularity precede microbubble contrast accumulation deficit in the process of dedifferentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Eur J Radiol 2009; 75:e102-6. [PMID: 19783392 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2009.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2009] [Revised: 08/22/2009] [Accepted: 08/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the changes in tumor vascularity and microbubble accumulation on contrast-enhanced sonograms, in relation to the dedifferentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective study enrolled 10 patients with histologically proven HCC (14.4-39.0mm, 26.1+/-7.4) showing nodule-in-nodule appearance upon contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound was performed by harmonic imaging under a low mechanical index (0.22-0.25) during the vascular phase (agent injection to 1 min) and late phase (15 min) following the injection of Sonazoid (0.0075 ml/kg). Contrast enhancement in the inner and outer nodules was assessed in comparison with that in adjacent liver parenchyma as hyper-, iso-, or hypo-enhanced. RESULTS Vascular-phase enhancement of all 10 inner nodules was hyper-enhanced, and that of outer nodules was hyper-enhanced in 3, iso-enhanced in 2, and hypo-enhanced in 5. Late-phase enhancement of inner nodules was hypo-enhanced in 8 and iso-enhanced in 2. Furthermore, late-phase enhancement of outer nodules was iso-enhanced in the 7 lesions that showed iso- or hypo-enhancement in the vascular phase, and hypo-enhanced in the 3 with hyper-enhancement in the vascular phase. Late-phase hypo-enhancement was significantly more frequent in the nodules showing early-phase hyper-enhancement (11/13) than in the nodules showing early-phase iso- or hypo-enhancement (0/7) in both the inner and outer nodules. CONCLUSION Dedifferentiation of HCC may be accompanied by changes in tumor vascularity prior to a reduction in microbubble accumulation. Observation of the vascular phase may be more useful than late-phase imaging for the early recognition of HCC dedifferentiation when using contrast-enhanced ultrasound with Sonazoid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Maruyama
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Oncology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine 1-8-1, Inohana, Chuou-ku, Chiba 260-8670, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kudo M. Multistep human hepatocarcinogenesis: correlation of imaging with pathology. J Gastroenterol 2009; 44 Suppl 19:112-8. [PMID: 19148804 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-008-2274-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2008] [Accepted: 08/02/2008] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. The majority of HCCs develop in cirrhotic livers, and the early detection and characterization of this entity is very important. Pathologically, human HCC develops in a multistep fashion in the following sequence: from low-grade dysplastic nodule (LGDN), to high-grade dysplastic nodule (HGDN), early HCC, well-differentiated HCC, nodule-in-nodule HCC, and, finally, to moderately differentiated HCC. Differentiation between early HCC and DN is the most important issue in the clinical setting. CT during hepatic angiography (CTHA) and CT during arterial portography (CTAP) are the most sensitive tools in the differentiation of premalignant/borderline lesions (LGDN and HGDN) and early HCC. Recent progress in imaging modality, especially Sonazoidenhanced US and Gd-EOB-DTPA MRI, is starting to play a very important role in the imaging of multistep hepatocarcinogenesis, resulting in changing the therapeutic strategy of these nodular lesions associated with liver cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kinki University School of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama, 589-8511, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Midorikawa Y, Yamamoto S, Tsuji S, Kamimura N, Ishikawa S, Igarashi H, Makuuchi M, Kokudo N, Sugimura H, Aburatani H. Allelic imbalances and homozygous deletion on 8p23.2 for stepwise progression of hepatocarcinogenesis. Hepatology 2009; 49:513-22. [PMID: 19105209 DOI: 10.1002/hep.22698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Early hepatocellular carcinoma (eHCC) originates from the hepatocytes of chronic liver disease and develops into classical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). To identify sequential genetic changes in multistep hepatocarcinogenesis, we analyzed molecular karyotypes using oligonucleotide genotyping 50K arrays. First, 1q21.3-44 gain and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on 1p36.21-36.32 and 17p13.1-13.3 were frequently observed in eHCC, but not in chronic liver diseases, suggesting that such chromosomal aberrations are early, possibly causative events in liver cancer. Next, we detected 25 chromosomal loci associated with liver cancer progression in five HCCs with nodule-in-nodule appearance, in which the inner nodule develops within eHCC lesion. Using these chromosomal regions as independent variables, decision tree analysis was applied on 14 early and 25 overt HCCs, and extracted combination of chromosomal gains on 5q11.1-35.3 and 8q11.1-24.3 and LOH on 4q11-34.3 and 8p11.21-23.3 as distinctive attributes, which can classify early and overt HCCs recursively. In these four altered regions identified as late events of hepatocarcinogenesis, two tumors in 32 overt HCCs analyzed in the present study and one in a set of independent samples of 36 overt HCCs in our previous study harbored a homozygous deletion near the CSMD1 locus on 8p23.2. CSMD1 messenger RNA expression was decreased in HCC without 8p23.2 deletion, possibly due to hypermethylation of the CpG islands in its promoter region. CONCLUSION 1q gain and 1p and 17p LOH are early molecular events, whereas gains in 5q and 8q and LOH on 4q and 8p only occur in advanced HCC, and inactivation of the putative suppressor gene, CSMD1, may be the key event in progression of liver cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Midorikawa
- Division of Genome Science, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hypervascular Focus in the Nonhypervascular Nodule ("Nodule-in-Nodule") on Dynamic Computed Tomography. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2009; 33:131-5. [DOI: 10.1097/rct.0b013e3181670fa3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
35
|
Hanna RF, Aguirre DA, Kased N, Emery SC, Peterson MR, Sirlin CB. Cirrhosis-associated Hepatocellular Nodules: Correlation of Histopathologic and MR Imaging Features. Radiographics 2008; 28:747-69. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.283055108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
36
|
Toyoda H, Kumada T, Kiriyama S, Sone Y, Tanikawa M, Hisanaga Y, Kanamori A. Simultaneous multicentric occurrence of early hepatocellular carcinoma in a patient with persistent alpha-fetoprotein elevation. Hepatol Res 2007; 37:988-9. [PMID: 17610499 DOI: 10.1111/j.1872-034x.2007.00155.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hidenori Toyoda
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ogaki Municipal Hospital, Ogaki, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
The multistep process of hepatic carcinogenesis is mirrored by the morphologic classification of lesions detectable in cirrhosis, which include large regenerative nodules (LRN), low grade dysplastic nodules (LGDN), and high grade dysplastic nodules (HGDN). The latter belong to the "bordeline malignancy" category requiring accurate distinction from well-differentiated and early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nodules in cirrhosis are usually detected by non-invasive imaging techniques, which are unable to discriminate malignant from non-malignant forms, particularly in the 1-2-cm sized group. Liver biopsy is essential in providing practical diagnostic information to hepathologists in the management of cirrhotic patients with ultrasound (US)-detectable nodules. Histologic diagnosis on liver samples is based on the accurate search of a set of cyto-architectural features (e.g. cell atypia, cell crowding, trabecular thickness, microacini) and by a supplement of histochemical (Gomori staining) and immunocytochemical stainings. The latter rely upon the search of both well established and novel markers, targeted to evaluate stromal invasion (CK7/19), the vascular pattern (ASMA and CD34), or tumor markers (including HSP70 and glipican-3). Still, the diagnostic sensitivity is limited by the type and size of sampling and by its representativity of the entire lesion. Thus, the best diagnostic approach requires the integration ofclinical, morphological, and immunocytochemical information with imaging data (i.e. US pattern, perfusional pattern, helical computed tomography/magnetic resonance pattern). Molecular data are still under evaluation as to their diagnostic efficacy in this controversial field. Discrepancies have emerged recently between Eastern and Western interpretation of these lesions, particularly in the category of "borderline" nodules that are mostly labelled as early, well differentiated HCC by Eastern pathologists and as HGDN by Western pathologsts. Novel and more objective phenotypical and molecular markers are needed to discriminate within the grey area of borderline lesions that, epidemiologically, are likely distinct between Eastern and Western geographic areas. These tools might allow a better understanding of the boundaries of the process going from high grade dysplasia to in situ HCC and from the latter to microinvasive HCC and advanced HCC, for proper clinical management and optimal therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Roncalli
- Department of Pathology, University of Milan, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Rozzano (Mi), Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kudo M. Early Detection and Characterization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Value of Imaging Multistep Human Hepatocarcinogenesis. Intervirology 2005; 49:64-9. [PMID: 16166791 DOI: 10.1159/000087265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The method for early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been well established in Japan, by means of regularly screening patients at risk for developing HCC by imaging and serological markers of tumor. The principal screening protocol includes performing ultrasonography (US) every 3 months and testing for tumor markers every month in patients at high risk for HCC. There has been another important issue of accurate characterization of nodular lesions found in cirrhotic liver. This problem has been solved by the development of imaging modalities such as US angiography with intra-arterial injection of CO(2), computed tomography during hepatic arteriography and computed tomography during arterial portography. It is most important to differentiate the typical hemodynamic patterns of a low-grade dysplastic nodule having arterial hypovascularity with portal perfusion preserved from those of HCC characterized by arterial hypervascularity with decreased portal perfusion. At present, these findings are easily obtained by contrast-enhanced phase invasion harmonic imaging, which is a noninvasive US technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Kudo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kinki University School of Medicine, 377-2 Ohno-Higashi, Osaka-Sayama, Osaka 589-8511, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
|