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Wu Y, Chen Y, Wei L, Ding Z, Zhao S, Bao S, Tang J, Li H, Liu J, Zhu S. The Value of CEUS LI-RADS combined with AFP in early diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma in low- and high-risk patients. J Cancer Res Ther 2024:01363817-990000000-00094. [PMID: 38958652 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_125_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We found that the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has increased significantly in non-cirrhotic individuals, with HCC being frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is known to have a high diagnostic quality in high-risk HCC patients. Therefore, we aimed to compare the detection accuracy of CEUS LI-RADS for HCC between low- and high-risk individuals, to confirm its value in low-risk patients at increased risk of HCC, but not yet included in the high-risk groups of LI-RADS. In addition, since CEUS LR-4 and LR-M categories contain a relatively high proportion of HCC, and serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is the most commonly used biomarker for HCC, and the clinically valid, we attempted to further improve the early diagnostic capability of CEUS LI-RADS for HCC in the low-risk and high-risk patients by combining CEUS LR-4 and LR-M categories with AFP. METHODS We defined high-risk groups (HR)-included in the high-risk patients of LI-RADS, low-risk groups (LR)-not included in the high-risk patients of LI-RADS and enrolled 189 HCC patients with LR and HR settings in a retrospective study. All lesions were confirmed histopathologically. The CEUS LI-RADS accuracy for detecting HCC in these two patients was compared. In addition, the diagnostic algorithm in our study was proposed (for CEUS LR-4 and LR-M patients with AFP>20 ng/ml). we analyzed the ability of CEUS LI-RADS as a valid method of establishing the early diagnosis of HCC in LR and HR patients by combining LR-4 and LR-M categories with AFP. RESULTS Through comparative analysis, the specificity of the CEUS LR-5 category for HCC in the HR group was 78.4%, whereas in the LR group, it was 94.2%. Meanwhile, the sensitivity (63.2% vs. 63.0%) and positive predictive value (PPV) (75.0% vs. 88.7%) did not differ between the LR and HR groups (P = 0.990, P = 0.299). It is noteworthy that there were the high proportion of HCC in CEUS LR-4 and LR-M categories in our cases and when we combined CEUS LR-4 and LR-M categories with AFP significantly improved the sensitivity by 21.0% (84.2%) in the LR group, and by 16.0% (79.0%) in the HR group, with statistically difference in sensitivity after combination in the HR group (P = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS The CEUS LR-5 category has real meaningful utility in the diagnosis of HCC in both LR and HR patients. The early detection power of the CEUS LI-RADS category for HCC patients was further increased when the CEUS LR-4 and LR-M categories were combined with elevated AFP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Wu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Lili Wei
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhanling Ding
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Shengfa Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Shengxian Bao
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiali Tang
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Hang Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Shangyong Zhu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, No. 6 Shuangyong Rd, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
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Yuan Z, Li J, Yang L, Shi Y, Luo Y. The differential diagnosis of pancreatic cystic neoplasms with conventional ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2024; 14:4304-4318. [PMID: 39022276 PMCID: PMC11250354 DOI: 10.21037/qims-24-154] [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] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Background Advances in imaging have improved the detection rate of pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCNs), but clinical management varies depending on the pathological type of PCNs, and thus accurate differential diagnosis is of considerable clinical significance. We conducted this study to identify the clinical and sonographic features of PCNs with significance for differential diagnosis and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of conventional ultrasound and conventional ultrasound combined with contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for PCNs. Methods From January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2022, a total of 100 patients with PCNs who underwent CEUS examination and were confirmed to have PCNs by postoperative pathology in West China Hospital of Sichuan University were included in this study. Results Of the clinical characteristics of PCNs, age and gender were found to be important differential diagnostic features. Moreover, communication of the lesion with the main pancreatic duct on conventional ultrasound and CEUS images was a critical feature in the differential diagnosis of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). The size of the lesion, the thickness of the cyst wall and the number of septa in conventional ultrasound images, the uniformity of the cyst wall thickness in CEUS images, and the enhancement pattern in the arterial phase were significant features for the differential diagnosis of serous cystic neoplasm (SCN). Cyst wall thickness and uniformity of the cyst wall thickness in conventional ultrasound images and cyst wall thickness and septa thickness in CEUS images were important features in the differential diagnosis of mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN). The size and internal components of the lesion on conventional ultrasound images, internal components of the lesion, and the enhancement pattern in the arterial phase and rim enhancement on CEUS images were the key features in the differential diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN). Conventional ultrasound combined with CEUS demonstrated significantly greater accuracy than did conventional ultrasound alone in the differential diagnosis of PCNs (66% vs. 79%; P=0.002). Conclusions PCN types differ in their clinical and ultrasound features. Conventional ultrasound combined with CEUS can better distinguish between different pathological types of PCNs than can conventional ultrasound alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Yuan
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiawu Li
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lulu Yang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingyu Shi
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Luo
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Krolak C, Dighe M, Clark A, Shumaker M, Yeung R, Barr RG, Kono Y, Averkiou M. Quantification of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Vascular Dynamics With Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for LI-RADS Implementation. Invest Radiol 2024; 59:337-344. [PMID: 37725492 PMCID: PMC10939991 DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000001022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to describe a comprehensive contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging protocol and analysis method to implement CEUS LI-RADS (Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System) in a quantifiable manner. The methods that are validated with a prospective single-center study aim to simplify CEUS LI-RADS evaluation, remove observer bias, and potentially improve the sensitivity of CEUS LI-RADS. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective single-center study enrolled patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (April 2021-June 2022; N = 31; mean age ± SD, 67 ± 6 years; 24 men/7 women). For each patient, at least 2 CEUS loops spanning over 5 minutes were collected for different lesion scan planes using an articulated arm to hold the transducer. Automatic respiratory gating and motion compensation algorithms removed errors due to breathing motion. The long axis of the lesion was measured in the contrast and fundamental images to capture nodule size. Parametric processing of time-intensity curve analysis on linearized data provided quantifiable information of the wash-in and washout dynamics via rise time ( RT ) and degree of washout ( DW ) parameters extracted from the time-intensity curve, respectively. A Welch t test was performed between lesion and parenchyma RT for each lesion to confirm statistically significant differences. P values for bootstrapped 95% confidence intervals of the relative degree of washout ( rDW ), ratio of DW between the lesion and surrounding parenchyma, were computed to quantify lesion washout. Coefficient of variation (COV) of RT , DW , and rDW was calculated for each patient between injections for both the lesion and surrounding parenchyma to gauge reproducibility of these metrics. Spearman rank correlation tests were performed among size, RT , DW , and rDW values to evaluate statistical dependence between the variables. RESULTS The mean ± SD lesion diameter was 23 ± 8 mm. The RT for all lesions, capturing arterial phase hyperenhancement, was shorter than that of surrounding liver parenchyma ( P < 0.05). All lesions also demonstrated significant ( P < 0.05) but variable levels of washout at both 2-minute and 5-minute time points, quantified in rDW . The COV of RT for the lesion and surrounding parenchyma were both 11%, and the COV of DW and rDW at 2 and 5 minutes ranged from 22% to 31%. Statistically significant relationships between lesion and parenchyma RT and between lesion RT and lesion DW at the 2- and 5-minute time points were found ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The imaging protocol and analysis method presented provide robust, quantitative metrics that describe the dynamic vascular patterns of LI-RADS 5 lesions classified as hepatocellular carcinomas. The RT of the bolus transit quantifies the arterial phase hyperenhancement, and the DW and rDW parameters quantify the washout from linearized CEUS intensity data. This unique methodology is able to implement the CEUS-LIRADS scheme in a quantifiable manner for the first time and remove its existing issues of currently being qualitative and suffering from subjective evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Krolak
- University of Washington Department of Bioengineering, Seattle, USA
| | - Manjiri Dighe
- University of Washington Department of Radiology, Seattle, USA
| | - Alicia Clark
- University of Washington Department of Bioengineering, Seattle, USA
| | - Marissa Shumaker
- University of Washington Department of Bioengineering, Seattle, USA
| | - Raymond Yeung
- University of Washington Department of Surgery, Seattle, USA
| | | | - Yuko Kono
- University of California at San Diego Department of Radiology, San Diego, USA
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Liao W, Que Q, Wen R, Lin P, Chen Y, Pang J, Guo D, Wen D, Yang H, He Y. Comparison of the Feasibility and Diagnostic Performance of ACR CEUS LI-RADS and a Modified CEUS LI-RADS for HCC in Examinations Using Sonazoid. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:2501-2511. [PMID: 37269244 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The present study aimed to determine the feasibility of the American College of Radiology's (ACR) contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) (version 2017) in examinations using Sonazoid and compare its diagnostic performance with that of modified LI-RADS in patients at high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS This retrospective study's sample population consisted of 137 participants with a total of 140 nodules who underwent CEUS with Sonazoid and pathological confirmation via surgery or biopsy from January 2020 to February 2022. The lesions were evaluated and classified based on the reference standards (ie, ACR CEUS LI-RADS and modified LI-RADS). The overall diagnostic capabilities of the two systems were evaluated in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS The participants had a median age of 51 years and an interquartile range of 43-58 years. Regarding LR-5 as a predictor of HCC, the accuracy results of the ACR LI-RADS and modified LI-RADS algorithms were 72.9 and 71.4%, respectively (P = .50). The sensitivity of both systems was the same (69.7%; 95% CI: 60.7-77.8%). Regarding LR-M as a predictor of non-HCC malignancy, the diagnostic performance of the algorithms was the same, with accuracy and sensitivity results of 76.4 and 73.3%, respectively (95% CI: 44.9-92.2%). CONCLUSION The findings indicate that modified LI-RADS had a moderate level of diagnostic performance for HCC in examinations using Sonazoid, which was comparable to ACR LI-RADS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liao
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Qiao Que
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Rong Wen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Peng Lin
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuji Chen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jinshu Pang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Danxia Guo
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Dongyue Wen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center for Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Multimodal Tumor Images, Nanning, China
| | - Yun He
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center for Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Multimodal Tumor Images, Nanning, China
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Huang W, Wen R, Wu Y, Lin P, Guo D, Peng Y, Liu D, Mou M, Chen F, Huang F, Yang H, He Y. Can Modifications of LR-M Criteria Improve the Diagnostic Performance of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound LI-RADS for Small Hepatic Lesions up to 3 cm? JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:2403-2413. [PMID: 37269201 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the diagnostic performance of the contrast-enhanced ultrasound liver imaging reporting and data system (CEUS LI-RADS) version 2017 for small hepatic lesions of ≤3 cm before and after changing the LR-M criteria. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the CEUS examination of 179 patients who were at high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with focal hepatic lesions ≤3 cm (194 lesions in total) and evaluated the diagnostic capability of the American College of Radiology and modified CEUS LI-RADS algorithms. RESULTS Revision of the early washout time to 45 seconds increased the sensitivity of LR-5 in predicting HCC (P = .004), with no significant decrease in specificity (P = .118). It also made better the specificity of LR-M in predicting non-HCC malignancies (P = .001), with no significant decrease in sensitivity (P = .094). However, using within 3 minutes as the criterion for marked washout time improved the LR-5 sensitivity (P < .001) but decreased its specificity (P = .009) in predicting HCC, whereas the specificity of LR-M in predicting non-HCC malignancies increased (P < .001), but the sensitivity decreased (P = .027). CONCLUSIONS CEUS LI-RADS (v2017) is a valid method for predicting HCC risk in high-risk patients. The diagnostic performance of LR-5 and LR-M could boost when the early washout time is revised to 45 seconds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiche Huang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Rong Wen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuquan Wu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Peng Lin
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Danxia Guo
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuye Peng
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Dun Liu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Meiyan Mou
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fenghuan Chen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fen Huang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yun He
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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Jeong WK. Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma using Sonazoid: a comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF LIVER CANCER 2023; 23:272-283. [PMID: 37723641 PMCID: PMC10565540 DOI: 10.17998/jlc.2023.08.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Sonazoid contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) is a promising technique for the detection and diagnosis of focal liver lesions, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, a collaborative effort between the Korean Society of Radiology and Korean Society of Abdominal Radiology resulted in the publication of guidelines for diagnosing HCC using Sonazoid CEUS. These guidelines propose specific criteria for identifying HCC based on the imaging characteristics observed during Sonazoid CEUS. The suggested diagnostic criteria include nonrim arterial phase hyperenhancement, and the presence of late and mild washout, or Kupffer phase washout under the premise that the early or marked washout should not occur during the portal venous phase. These criteria aim to improve the accuracy of HCC diagnosis using Sonazoid CEUS. This review offers a comprehensive overview of Sonazoid CEUS in the context of HCC diagnosis. It covers the fundamental principles of Sonazoid CEUS and its clinical applications, and introduces the recently published guidelines. By providing a summary of this emerging technique, this review contributes to a better understanding of the potential role of Sonazoid CEUS for diagnosing HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Kyoung Jeong
- Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Center for Imaging Sciences, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Wang Y, Chai S, Cai W, Yu J, Liang P. Prognostic and pathological implications of contrast-enhanced ultrasound features in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer Res Ther 2023; 19:1040-1047. [PMID: 37675734 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_1155_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) plays a vital role in diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and, to some extent, reflects tumor prognosis. This suggests that some pathological features of HCC may be associated with CEUS features. Aim This study aimed to verify the prognostic significance of four CEUS features and further explore their pathological significance. Materials and Methods This study included 243 HCC patients who underwent a preoperative CEUS examination. All pathological diagnoses and immunohistochemical information were obtained from the pathological report. The prognostic significance of four CEUS features, including nodule-in-nodule architecture, mosaic architecture, intratumoral feeding arteries, and peritumoral arterial phase (AP) hyperenhancement, was analyzed. The correlation between prognostic-related features and immunohistochemical information was further analyzed. Results The disease-free survival (DFS) of HCC was significantly affected by mosaic architecture or intratumoral feeding arteries (HR = 1.79; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.09-2.95; P = 0.004; HR = 1.70; 95% CI, 1.07-2.71; P = 0.025, respectively). Intratumoral feeding arteries were positively correlated with the expression of serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), microvascular invasion (MVI), differentiation, size, and Ki-67, among which the correlation with size was the strongest, followed by Ki-67 and MVI. The mosaic architecture was positively correlated with serum AFP, MVI, differentiation, and size, among which the correlation with size was strongest, followed by MVI. Conclusion The mosaic architecture and intratumoral feeding arteries of CEUS were closely related to the postoperative progression of HCC. Mosaic architecture had a good correlation with tumor size and MVI, whereas intratumoral feeding arteries were closely associated with tumor size and Ki-67 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Wang
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Suwan Chai
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjia Cai
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liang
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Yıldırım HÇ, Kavgaci G, Chalabiyev E, Dizdar O. Advances in the Early Detection of Hepatobiliary Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3880. [PMID: 37568696 PMCID: PMC10416925 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153880] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular cancer (HCC) and biliary tract cancers (BTCs) have poor survival rates and a low likelihood of a cure, especially in advanced-stage disease. Early diagnosis is crucial and can significantly improve survival rates through curative treatment approaches. Current guidelines recommend abdominal ultrasonography (USG) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) monitoring for HCC screening in high-risk groups, and abdominal USG, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) monitoring for biliary tract cancer. However, despite this screening strategy, many high-risk individuals still develop advanced-stage HCC and BTC. Blood-based biomarkers are being developed for use in HCC or BTC high-risk groups. Studies on AFP, AFP-L3, des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin, glypican-3 (GPC3), osteopontin (OPN), midkine (MK), neopterin, squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA), Mac-2-binding protein (M2BP), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and interleukin-6 biomarkers for HCC screening have shown promising results when evaluated individually or in combination. In the case of BTCs, the potential applications of circulating tumor DNA, circulating microRNA, and circulating tumor cells in diagnosis are also promising. These biomarkers have shown potential in detecting BTCs in early stages, which can significantly improve patient outcomes. Additionally, these biomarkers hold promise for monitoring disease progression and evaluating response to therapy in BTC patients. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the clinical utility of these biomarkers in the diagnosis and management of HCC and BTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Omer Dizdar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06230 Ankara, Turkey; (H.Ç.Y.); (G.K.); (E.C.)
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Dobek A, Kobierecki M, Ciesielski W, Grząsiak O, Fabisiak A, Stefańczyk L. Usefulness of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in the Differentiation between Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Benign Liver Lesions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2025. [PMID: 37370920 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13122025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A differentiation between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and benign liver lesions is required. The aim of the study was to perform an analysis of the time of enhancement of focal liver lesions in a contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examination. The curves of enhancement and the homogeneity of the tumor enhancement were assessed. The study included 52 patients with diagnoses of hepatocellular adenoma (18), focal nodular hyperplasia (11) and HCC (28). The study included magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography and a comparison of the obtained information with CEUS. In the benign lesions groups after 20-30 s, the enhancement was similar to the liver parenchyma. In the HCC group, the enhancement was slightly less intense compared to the liver parenchyma and the benign lesions. The difference of the enhancement in the arterial phase (benign lesions vs. HCC) was p = 0.0452, and the difference of enhancement in the late venous phase (benign lesions vs. HCC) was p = 0.000003. The homogeneity of the enhancement (benign lesions vs. HCC), respectively, was p = 0.001 in the arterial phase, p = 0.0003 in the portal venous phase and p = 0.00000007 in the late venous phase. Liver tumors can be classified as benign when they are homogenous in the arterial phase and don't present washout. HCC in the arterial phase is inhomogeneous and washout is observed in the venous phases. When radiological symptoms suggest malignant lesion, CEUS can be used to select the best biopsy access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Dobek
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Mateusz Kobierecki
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Wojciech Ciesielski
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantology, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Oliwia Grząsiak
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantology, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Adam Fabisiak
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ludomir Stefańczyk
- Department of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, Norbert Barlicki Memorial Teaching Hospital No. 1, Medical University of Lodz, 90-153 Lodz, Poland
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Cekuolis A, Schreiber-Dietrich D, Augustinienė R, Taut H, Squires J, Chaves EL, Dong Y, Dietrich CF. Incidental Findings in Pediatric Patients: How to Manage Liver Incidentaloma in Pediatric Patients. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082360. [PMID: 37190288 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082360] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) is addressing the issue of incidental findings (IFs) with a series of publications entitled "Incidental imaging findings-the role of ultrasound". IFs in the liver of newborns and children are rare and much less commonly encountered than in adults; as a result, they are relatively much more frequently malignant and life-threatening, even when they are of benign histology. Conventional B-mode ultrasound is the well-established first line imaging modality for the assessment of liver pathology in pediatric patients. US technological advances, resulting in image quality improvement, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), liver elastography and quantification tools for steatosis have expanded the use of ultrasound technology in daily practice. The following overview is intended to illustrate incidentally detected liver pathology covering all pediatric ages. It aims to aid the examiner in establishing the final diagnosis. Management of incidentally detected focal liver lesions (FLL) needs to take into account the diagnostic accuracy of each imaging modality, the patient's safety issues (including ionizing radiation and nephrotoxic contrast agents), the delay in diagnosis, the psychological burden on the patient and the cost for the healthcare system. Moreover, this paper should help the pediatric clinician and ultrasound practitioner to decide which pathologies need no further investigation, which ones require interval imaging and which cases require further and immediate diagnostic procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrius Cekuolis
- Ultrasound Section, Department of Pediatric Radiology, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Rasa Augustinienė
- Ultrasound Section, Department of Pediatric Radiology, Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, 08661 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Heike Taut
- Children's Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Dresden, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany
| | - Judy Squires
- Department of Radiology, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Edda L Chaves
- Radiology Department, Hospital Regional Nicolas Solano, La Chorrera 1007, Panama
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Christoph F Dietrich
- Department Allgemeine Innere Medizin (DAIM), Kliniken Hirslanden Beau Site, Salem und Permancence, 3013 Bern, Switzerland
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11
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Criss C, Nagar AM, Makary MS. Hepatocellular carcinoma: State of the art diagnostic imaging. World J Radiol 2023; 15:56-68. [PMID: 37035828 PMCID: PMC10080581 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v15.i3.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the fourth most common malignancy worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) comprising up to 90% of cases. Imaging is a staple for surveillance and diagnostic criteria for HCC in current guidelines. Because early diagnosis can impact treatment approaches, utilizing new imaging methods and protocols to aid in differentiation and tumor grading provides a unique opportunity to drastically impact patient prognosis. Within this review manuscript, we provide an overview of imaging modalities used to screen and evaluate HCC. We also briefly discuss emerging uses of new imaging techniques that offer the potential for improving current paradigms for HCC characterization, management, and treatment monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody Criss
- Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, United States
| | - Arpit M Nagar
- Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Mina S Makary
- Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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12
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Gong W, Wu J, Wei H, Jiang Z, Wan M, Wu C, Xue W, Ma R, Zhou X, Zhou H. Combining serum AFP and CEUS LI-RADS for better diagnostic performance in Chinese high-risk patients. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:393-401. [PMID: 36943653 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-023-01614-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate and compare the diagnostic performance of revised contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System version by combining LR-M category and serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) under different cut-off values. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective study enrolled 152 high-risk patients with 152 histology-proven nodules. For revised LI-RADS, nodules in LR-M with different elevated AFP thresholds have been reclassified as the LR-5 category. The diagnostic performances of original and revised CEUS LI-RADS were evaluated and compared. RESULTS To compare with the original version, the sensitivity of revised LR-5 (adjusted with AFP value > 200 ng/ml or 400 ng/ml) for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) improved from 52.5 to 69.2% or 65.0%, respectively (both p < 0.001) without compromising specificity (87.5% vs. 71.9% or 78.1%, respectively, both p > 0.05). For the diagnosis of non-HCC malignancy, the specificity of the LR-M after reclassification was improved (69.6% vs. 84.4% or 80.7%, respectively, both p < 0.001) with a non-significant sensitivity reduction (100.0 vs. 70.6% or 82.4%, respectively, both p > 0.05). After modification, the sensitivity of LR-5 also increased to 69.1% or 64.9% (both p < 0.001), while the specificity and PPV did not change (both p > 0.05) for larger nodules (> 20 mm). CONCLUSION The diagnostic performance of CEUS LI-RADS can be further improved by reclassifying LR-M nodules with elevated AFP thresholds to LR-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wushuang Gong
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiaqi Wu
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Hong Wei
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zhaopeng Jiang
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ming Wan
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Chengwei Wu
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Weili Xue
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Rao Ma
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xianli Zhou
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Hang Zhou
- In-Patient Ultrasound Department, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Surgeons' Hall, No. 246, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin City, Heilongjiang, China.
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13
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Spontaneously Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Computed Tomography-Based Assessment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13061021. [PMID: 36980330 PMCID: PMC10047024 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13061021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneously ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (SRHCC) is an uncommon and life-threatening complication in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is usually associated with chronic liver disease and has a poor prognosis with a high mortality rate during the acute phase. SRHCC can cause a severe and urgent condition of acute abdomen disease and requires a correct diagnosis to achieve adequate treatment. Clinical presentation is related to the presence of hemoperitoneum, and abdominal pain is the most common symptom (66–100% of cases). Although the treatment approach is not unique, trans-arterial (chemo)embolization (TAE/TACE) followed by staged hepatectomy has shown better results in long-term survival. A multi-phase contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) scan is a pivotal technique in the diagnosis of SRHCC due to its diagnostic accuracy and optimal temporal resolution. The correct interpretation of the main CT findings in SRHCC, such as active contrast extravasation and the sentinel clot sign, is fundamental for a prompt and correct diagnosis. Furthermore, CT also plays a role as a post-operative control procedure, especially in patients treated with TAE/TACE. Therefore, a multi-phase CECT scan should be the diagnostic tool of choice in SRHCC since it suggests an immediate need for treatment with a consequent improvement in prognosis.
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14
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Candita G, Rossi S, Cwiklinska K, Fanni SC, Cioni D, Lencioni R, Neri E. Imaging Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A State-of-the-Art Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040625. [PMID: 36832113 PMCID: PMC9955560 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains not only a cause of a considerable part of oncologic mortality, but also a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Early detection of the disease and consequential adequate therapy are imperative to increase patients' quality of life and survival. Imaging plays, therefore, a crucial role in the surveillance of patients at risk, the detection and diagnosis of HCC nodules, as well as in the follow-up post-treatment. The unique imaging characteristics of HCC lesions, deriving mainly from the assessment of their vascularity on contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR) or contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), allow for a more accurate, noninvasive diagnosis and staging. The role of imaging in the management of HCC has further expanded beyond the plain confirmation of a suspected diagnosis due to the introduction of ultrasound and hepatobiliary MRI contrast agents, which allow for the detection of hepatocarcinogenesis even at an early stage. Moreover, the recent technological advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) in radiology contribute an important tool for the diagnostic prediction, prognosis and evaluation of treatment response in the clinical course of the disease. This review presents current imaging modalities and their central role in the management of patients at risk and with HCC.
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15
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Focal Liver Lesions other than Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhosis: Diagnostic Challenges. J Transl Int Med 2023; 10:308-327. [PMID: 36860624 PMCID: PMC9969567 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2022-0068] [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: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cirrhosis is associated with regenerative nodules and an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, other benign and malignant liver lesions may also occur. Differentiating the other lesions from HCC is important for further therapeutic decisions. This review discusses the characteristics of non-HCC liver lesions in cirrhosis and their consequent appearance on contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) with consideration of other imaging. Knowledge of this data would be helpful in avoiding misdiagnoses.
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16
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Alhyari A, Görg C, Alakhras R, Dietrich CF, Trenker C, Safai Zadeh E. HCC or Something Else? Frequency of Various Benign and Malignant Etiologies in Cirrhotic Patients with Newly Detected Focal Liver Lesions in Relation to Different Clinical and Sonographic Parameters. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12092079. [PMID: 36140481 PMCID: PMC9497913 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12092079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: To investigate the frequency of different benign and malignant focal liver lesions (FLLs) in relation to clinical and sonographic features among patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and newly detected FLLs. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of 225 cirrhotic patients with newly detected FLLs who underwent hepatic ultrasound (US) examinations at our university hospital from 2011 to 2022. The diagnosis of FLLs was based on histology and/or consensus radiological criteria, in accordance with the current diagnostic guidelines. The FLLs were classified into benign (bFLLs) or malignant (mFLLs) lesions and the latter group was subclassified into HCC and non-HCC mFLLs. The frequency, clinical parameters, and sonographic features of the different groups were examined and compared. Results: Of the 225 FLLs, 154 (68.4%) were mFLLs and 71 (31.6%) bFLLs. HCC was the most frequent subcategory of FLLs (132; 58.7%). There were (22; 9.8%) non-HCC mFLLs with 11 (4.9%) metastases and 11 (4.9%) non-HCC primary liver tumors. Regenerative nodules (RNs) were the most frequent form of bFLLs (25; 11.1%), followed by simple cysts (22; 9.8%) and hemangiomas (14; 6.2%). The other bFLLs (10; 14.1%) were fat deposition/sparing (5), hematomas (2), abscesses (2), and echinococcal cysts (1). The distribution of bFLLs and HCC and non-HCC mFLLs varied significantly according to the clinical scenarios. HCC mFLLs were more frequent in males (p = 0.001), in those with no history of active non-hepatic primary malignant disease (NHPMD) (p < 0.001), in those with a hepatitis B or C etiology of LC (p = 0.002), when located in the right lobe (p = 0.008), and when portal vein thrombosis was present (p = 0.03). Conclusion: In cirrhotic patients with newly detected FLLs, the non-HCC etiology was more frequently diagnosed in lesions that were located in the left lobe, in females, and in patients with a history of active NHPMD. Thus, the lower frequency of HCC in the abovementioned groups demonstrated that a cautious implementation of the current consensus radiological criteria would be required for these groups, particularly in patients with an active NHPMD, given the fact that the consensus criteria were not validated in these populations. A more active diagnostic approach may ultimately be needed for these patients. Large prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amjad Alhyari
- Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Infectiology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Ultrasound Diagnostics, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-6421-58-61538
| | - Christian Görg
- Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Infectiology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Ultrasound Diagnostics, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
| | - Raed Alakhras
- Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Infectiology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Frank Dietrich
- Department Allgemeine Innere Medizin (DAIM), Kliniken Hirslanden Bern, Beau Site, Salem und Permanence, 3013 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Corrina Trenker
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Ultrasound Diagnostics, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- Haematology, Oncology and Immunology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipps University Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
| | - Ehsan Safai Zadeh
- Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Infectiology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Centre of Ultrasound Diagnostics, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Philipp University of Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35033 Marburg, Germany
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17
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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.
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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
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De Muzio F, Grassi F, Dell’Aversana F, Fusco R, Danti G, Flammia F, Chiti G, Valeri T, Agostini A, Palumbo P, Bruno F, Cutolo C, Grassi R, Simonetti I, Giovagnoni A, Miele V, Barile A, Granata V. A Narrative Review on LI-RADS Algorithm in Liver Tumors: Prospects and Pitfalls. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071655. [PMID: 35885561 PMCID: PMC9319674 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071655] [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] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the sixth most detected tumor and the third leading cause of tumor death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy with specific risk factors and a targeted population. Imaging plays a major role in the management of HCC from screening to post-therapy follow-up. In order to optimize the diagnostic-therapeutic management and using a universal report, which allows more effective communication among the multidisciplinary team, several classification systems have been proposed over time, and LI-RADS is the most utilized. Currently, LI-RADS comprises four algorithms addressing screening and surveillance, diagnosis on computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diagnosis on contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and treatment response on CT/MRI. The algorithm allows guiding the radiologist through a stepwise process of assigning a category to a liver observation, recognizing both major and ancillary features. This process allows for characterizing liver lesions and assessing treatment. In this review, we highlighted both major and ancillary features that could define HCC. The distinctive dynamic vascular pattern of arterial hyperenhancement followed by washout in the portal-venous phase is the key hallmark of HCC, with a specificity value close to 100%. However, the sensitivity value of these combined criteria is inadequate. Recent evidence has proven that liver-specific contrast could be an important tool not only in increasing sensitivity but also in diagnosis as a major criterion. Although LI-RADS emerges as an essential instrument to support the management of liver tumors, still many improvements are needed to overcome the current limitations. In particular, features that may clearly distinguish HCC from cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and combined HCC-CCA lesions and the assessment after locoregional radiation-based therapy are still fields of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica De Muzio
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences V. Tiberio, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Francesca Grassi
- Division of Radiology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Naples, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.); (R.G.)
| | - Federica Dell’Aversana
- Division of Radiology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Naples, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.); (R.G.)
| | - Roberta Fusco
- Medical Oncology Division, Igea SpA, 80013 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Ginevra Danti
- Division of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.D.); (F.F.); (G.C.); (V.M.)
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Federica Flammia
- Division of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.D.); (F.F.); (G.C.); (V.M.)
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Giuditta Chiti
- Division of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.D.); (F.F.); (G.C.); (V.M.)
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Tommaso Valeri
- Department of Clinical Special and Dental Sciences, University Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (T.V.); (A.A.); (A.G.)
- Department of Radiological Sciences, University Hospital Ospedali Riuniti, Via Tronto 10/a, 60126 Torrette, Italy
| | - Andrea Agostini
- Department of Clinical Special and Dental Sciences, University Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (T.V.); (A.A.); (A.G.)
- Department of Radiological Sciences, University Hospital Ospedali Riuniti, Via Tronto 10/a, 60126 Torrette, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Palumbo
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
- Area of Cardiovascular and Interventional Imaging, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Abruzzo Health Unit 1, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Federico Bruno
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
- Emergency Radiology, San Salvatore Hospital, Via Lorenzo Natali 1, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Carmen Cutolo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, 84084 Fisciano, Italy;
| | - Roberta Grassi
- Division of Radiology, Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Naples, Italy; (F.G.); (F.D.); (R.G.)
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Igino Simonetti
- Radiology Division, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.S.); (V.G.)
| | - Andrea Giovagnoni
- Department of Clinical Special and Dental Sciences, University Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (T.V.); (A.A.); (A.G.)
- Department of Radiological Sciences, University Hospital Ospedali Riuniti, Via Tronto 10/a, 60126 Torrette, Italy
| | - Vittorio Miele
- Division of Radiology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, 50134 Florence, Italy; (G.D.); (F.F.); (G.C.); (V.M.)
- Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), SIRM Foundation, 20122 Milan, Italy; (P.P.); (F.B.)
| | - Antonio Barile
- Emergency Radiology, San Salvatore Hospital, Via Lorenzo Natali 1, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | - Vincenza Granata
- Radiology Division, Istituto Nazionale Tumori-IRCCS-Fondazione G. Pascale, Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Naples, Italy; (I.S.); (V.G.)
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Chen Y, Lu Q, Zhu Y, Huang B, Dong Y, Wang W. Prediction of Microvascular Invasion in Combined Hepatocellular-Cholangiocarcinoma Based on Pre-operative Clinical Data and Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Characteristics. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2022; 48:1190-1201. [PMID: 35397928 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The goal of the study described here was to define the predictive value of pre-operative clinical information and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) imaging characteristics in combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) patients with microvascular invasion (MVI). Seventy-six patients with pathologically confirmed CHC were enrolled in this study, comprising 18 patients with MVI-positive status and 58 with MVI-negative CHC nodules. The pre-operative clinical data and CEUS imaging features were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the potential predictors of MVI in CHC. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) after hepatectomy was compared between patients with different MVI status using the log-rank test and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Univariate analysis indicated that the following parameters of patients with CHC significantly differed between the MVI-positive and MVI-negative groups (p<0.05): tumor size, α-fetoprotein ≥400 ng/mL, enhancement patterns in arterial phase and marked washout during the portal venous phase on CEUS. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, only the CEUS characteristics of heterogeneous enhancement (odds ratio = 6.807; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.099, 42.147; p = 0.039) and marked washout (odds ratio = 4.380; 95% CI: 1.050,18.270; p = 0.043) were identified as independent predictors of MVI in CHC. The combination of the two risk factors in predicting MVI achieved a better diagnostic performance than each parameter alone, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.736 (0.622, 0.830). After hepatectomy, CHC patients with MVI exhibited earlier recurrence compared with those without MVI (hazard ratio = 1.859; 95% CI: 0.8699-3.9722, p = 0.046). The CEUS imaging features of heterogeneous enhancement in the arterial phase and marked washout during the portal venous phase were the potential predictors of MVI in CHC. Aside from that, CHC patients with MVI had an earlier recurrence rate than those without MVI after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Lu
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuli Zhu
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Beijian Huang
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Ultrasound Medicine and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenping Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Institute of Ultrasound Medicine and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, China.
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20
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Inzerillo A, Meloni MF, Taibbi A, Bartolotta TV. Loco-regional treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: Role of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:911-922. [PMID: 35721286 PMCID: PMC9157715 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i5.911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the few cancers for which locoregional treatments (LRTs) are included in international guidelines and are considered as a valid alternative to conventional surgery. According to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer classification, percutaneous treatments such as percutaneous ethanol injection, radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation are the therapy of choice among curative treatments in patients categorized as very early and early stage, while transcatheter arterial chemoembolization is considered the better option for intermediate stage HCC. A precise assessment of treatment efficacy and surveillance is essential to optimize survival rate, whereas residual tumor requires additional treatment. Imaging modalities play a key role in this task. Currently, contrast-enhanced computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging are considered the standard imaging modalities for this purpose. Contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), using second generation contrast agents, plays an increasingly important role in detecting residual disease after LRTs. CEUS is a straightforward to perform, repeatable and cost-effective imaging modality for patients with renal failure or iodine allergies. Due to the ability to focus on single regions, CEUS can also provide high temporal resolution. Moreover, several studies have reported the same or better diagnostic accuracy as contrast-enhanced computed tomography for assessing tumor vascularity 1 mo after LRTs, and recently three-dimensional (3D)-CEUS has been reported as a promising technique to improve the evaluation of tumor response to therapy. Furthermore, CEUS could be used early after procedures in monitoring HCC treatments, but nowadays this indication is still debated, and data from literature are conflicting, especially after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Inzerillo
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
| | | | - Adele Taibbi
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Tommaso Vincenzo Bartolotta
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio Hospital, Cefalù 90015, Italy
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21
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Chen Y, Lu Q, Zhang W, Cao J, Dong Y, Wang W. Preoperative Differentiation of Combined Hepatocellular-Cholangiocarcinoma From Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: A Nomogram Based on Ultrasonographic Features and Clinical Indicators. Front Oncol 2022; 12:757774. [PMID: 35242699 PMCID: PMC8885729 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.757774] [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] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish a predictive nomogram to distinguish combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) based on preoperative clinical and ultrasound findings. METHODS A total of 261 patients with pathologically confirmed primary liver cancers (PLCs) were enrolled in this retrospective study, comprising 87 CHCs, 87 HCCs, and 87 ICCs matched by propensity score matching. Patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort and a validation one at the ratio of 7:3. A nomogram integrating ultrasound imaging characteristics and clinical features was established based on the independent risk factors selected by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated in the training and validation cohorts in terms of discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness. RESULTS The nomogram, consisting of ultrasound imaging features (shape and margin on B-mode ultrasound, enhanced pattern on contrast-enhanced ultrasound) and clinical information [elevated alpha fetoprotein (AFP) level and serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) α1 level], showed promising performance in differentiating CHC from HCC and ICC, with the concordance index (C-index) of 0.8275 and 0.8530 in the training cohort and the validation cohort, respectively. Hosmer-Lemeshow test and the calibration curves suggested good consistency between predictions and observations. High clinical practicability was confirmed by the decision curve analysis. CONCLUSIONS The nomogram based on clinical and ultrasound imaging characteristics showed good performance in the discrimination of CHC from other subtypes of PLC and would be valuable in clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Lu
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weibin Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaying Cao
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenping Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Shanghai, China
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22
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Yang XY, Deng JB, An TZ, Zhou S, Li JX. Tumor enhancement ratio with unenhanced imaging is an independent prognostic factor for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after transarterial chemoembolization. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:3000605211058367. [PMID: 34812068 PMCID: PMC8647277 DOI: 10.1177/03000605211058367] [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: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigative whether the odds tumor enhancement ratio (OTER) on
cross-sectional imaging is a prognostic factor for hepatocellular carcinoma
after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). Methods This study involved 126 patients who underwent TACE from May 2015 to March
2019. The signal intensity/Hounsfield units (HU) was measured by placing
regions of interest on the tumor and surrounding liver in unenhanced and
arterial-phase contrast-enhanced cross-sectional images. The OTER was
calculated as follows:
OTER = (HUTUMORart − HUTUMORun)/
(HULIVERart − HULIVERun). Univariate analysis was
performed to determine the factors associated with overall survival (OS).
Variables with a P value of <0.10 were included in the multivariate Cox
regression analysis. Results The median OS was 757 days. Tumors with a peripheral location, small size,
and low OTER had better OS than those with a central location, large size,
and high OTER. OS did not differ according to the extent of tumor
involvement or tumor enhancement pattern. The OTER, tumor location, and size
were included in the multivariate Cox regression analysis. A low OTER was
the predictor of better OS. Conclusion A high OTER is a risk factor for poor OS in patients undergoing TACE. This
should be taken into consideration before the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Yuan Yang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, the Affiliated Baiyun Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jiang-Bei Deng
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Changsha Central Hospital, University of South China, Changsha, China
| | - Tian-Zhi An
- Department of Interventional Radiology, 74720The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shi Zhou
- Department of Interventional Radiology, 74720The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jun-Xiang Li
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Guizhou Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital, Guiyang, China
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Bartolotta TV, Taibbi A, Randazzo A, Gagliardo C. New frontiers in liver ultrasound: From mono to multi parametricity. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 13:1302-1316. [PMID: 34721768 PMCID: PMC8529919 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v13.i10.1302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern liver ultrasonography (US) has become a “one-stop shop” able to provide not only anatomic and morphologic but also functional information about vascularity, stiffness and other various liver tissue properties. Modern US techniques allow a quantitative assessment of various liver diseases. US scanning is no more limited to the visualized plane, but three-dimensional, volumetric acquisition and consequent post-processing are also possible. Further, US scan can be consistently merged and visualized in real time with Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging examinations. Effective and safe microbubble-based contrast agents allow a real time, dynamic study of contrast kinetic for the detection and characterization of focal liver lesions. Ultrasound can be used to guide loco-regional treatment of liver malignancies and to assess tumoral response either to interventional procedures or medical therapies. Microbubbles may also carry and deliver drugs under ultrasound exposure. US plays a crucial role in diagnosing, treating and monitoring focal and diffuse liver disease. On the basis of personal experience and literature data, this paper is aimed to review the main topics involving recent advances in the field of liver ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Vincenzo Bartolotta
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
- Radiology Department, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio Hospital, Cefalù 90015, Italy
| | - Adele Taibbi
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Angelo Randazzo
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital "Paolo Giaccone", Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Cesare Gagliardo
- Department of Biopathology and Medical and Forensic Biotechnologies, University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
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24
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Motz VL, White R, Lee R, Vu T, Shin B, McGillen KL. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for screening hepatocellular carcinoma: an implemented program at a semi-rural academic center. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2021; 46:4170-4177. [PMID: 33956204 PMCID: PMC8100745 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-021-03104-w] [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] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To describe our early experience using a contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) protocol for surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at a semi-rural academic medical center. Methods Retrospective, longitudinal study of the first 100 patients who underwent CEUS liver screening imaging over 2 years. Each patient underwent a standard of care abdominal ultrasound, which was checked with the radiologist, who searched for a focal lesion on the cine clips to target specifically with contrast. If none was present, the HCC contrast-enhanced screening protocol consisting of individual sweeps of the right and left lobes was performed from 0 to 60 s and 3–4 min post contrast—Lumason was utilized. Images, report details, and patient demographics were analyzed. Results 66 men and 34 women (average age, 59 ± 13 years) were included. On average, the distance from patient’s home to our institution was 39 miles (range 2–179 miles). The majority of our patients were covered under Private insurance (46%) with 43% covered by Medicare. CEUS exams on average took 35 min to complete. Lumason was administered in split doses for an average total of 5 mL per exam. Of the 10 lesions identified, there were five LI-RADS 3, two LI-RADS 4, one LI-RADS 5, two LI-RADS M, and one bland portal vein thrombus. There were no complications reported. Conclusion This semi-rural single-center study demonstrates the feasibility of starting a HCC CEUS screening program. CEUS can be performed in conjunction with routine ultrasound imaging with added benefit of identifying and characterizing lesions in one setting.
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Bartolotta TV, Randazzo A, Bruno E, Alongi P, Taibbi A. Focal Pancreatic Lesions: Role of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11060957. [PMID: 34073596 PMCID: PMC8228123 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11060957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The introduction of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) has led to a significant improvement in the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in the characterization of a pancreatic mass. CEUS, by using a blood pool contrast agent, can provide dynamic information concerning macro- and micro-circulation of focal lesions and of normal parenchyma, without the use of ionizing radiation. On the basis of personal experience and literature data, the purpose of this article is to describe and discuss CEUS imaging findings of the main solid and cystic pancreatic lesions with varying prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Vincenzo Bartolotta
- BiND Department: Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Via Del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.V.B.); (A.R.); (E.B.); (A.T.)
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Istituto Giuseppe Giglio Ct.da Pietrapollastra, Via Pisciotto, Cefalù, 90015 Palermo, Italy
| | - Angelo Randazzo
- BiND Department: Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Via Del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.V.B.); (A.R.); (E.B.); (A.T.)
| | - Eleonora Bruno
- BiND Department: Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Via Del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.V.B.); (A.R.); (E.B.); (A.T.)
| | - Pierpaolo Alongi
- Department of Radiology, Fondazione Istituto Giuseppe Giglio Ct.da Pietrapollastra, Via Pisciotto, Cefalù, 90015 Palermo, Italy
- Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Fondazione Istituto Giuseppe Giglio Ct.da Pietrapollastra, Via Pisciotto, Cefalù, 90015 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Adele Taibbi
- BiND Department: Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Via Del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (T.V.B.); (A.R.); (E.B.); (A.T.)
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Chen Y, Wang W. Differentiation between hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma using contrast-enhanced ultrasound: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc 2021; 79:293-309. [PMID: 33935070 DOI: 10.3233/ch-211145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore the diagnostic ability of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in distinguishing intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched for studies reporting the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS in differentiating ICC from HCC. The diagnostic ability of CEUS was assessed based on the pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR) and area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The methodologic quality was assessed by the QUADAS-2 tool. Subgroup analyses, meta-regression and investigation of publication bias were performed to identify the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS A total of eight studies were included, consisting of 1,116 patients with HCC and 529 with ICC. The general diagnostic performance of CEUS in distinguishing ICC and HCC were as follows: pooled sensitivity, 0.92 (95% CI: 0.84-0.96); pooled specificity, 0.87 (95% CI: 0.79-0.92); pooled PLR, 7.1 (95% CI: 4.1-12.0); pooled NLR, 0.09 (95% CI: 0.05-0.19); pooled DOR, 76 (95% CI: 26-220) and AUC, 0.95(95% CI: 0.93-0.97). Different liver background may be a potential factor that influenced the diagnostic accuracy of CEUS according to the subgroup analysis, with the pooled DOR of 89.67 in the mixed liver background group and 46.87 in the cirrhosis group, respectively. Six informative CEUS features that may help differentiate HCC from ICC were extracted. The three CEUS features favoring HCC were arterial phase hyperenhancement(APHE), mild washout and late washout (>60s); the three CEUS favoring ICC were arterial rim enhancement, marked washout and early washout(<60s). No potential publication bias was observed. CONCLUSION CEUS showed great diagnostic ability in differentiating ICC from HCC, which may be promising for noninvasive evaluation of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Chen
- Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenping Wang
- Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Performance of Ultrasound Techniques and the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in the Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040790. [PMID: 33672827 PMCID: PMC7918928 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Global statistics show an increasing percentage of patients that develop non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NAFLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), even in the absence of cirrhosis. In the present review, we analyzed the diagnostic performance of ultrasonography (US) in the non-invasive evaluation of NAFLD and NAFLD-related HCC, as well as possibilities of optimizing US diagnosis with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) assistance. To date, US is the first-line examination recommended in the screening of patients with clinical suspicion of NAFLD, as it is readily available and leads to a better disease-specific surveillance. However, the conventional US presents limitations that significantly hamper its applicability in quantifying NAFLD and accurately characterizing a given focal liver lesion (FLL). Ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) are an essential add-on to the conventional B-mode US and to the Doppler US that further empower this method, allowing the evaluation of the enhancement properties and the vascular architecture of FLLs, in comparison to the background parenchyma. The current paper also explores the new universe of AI and the various implications of deep learning algorithms in the evaluation of NAFLD and NAFLD-related HCC through US methods, concluding that it could potentially be a game changer for patient care.
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Geyer T, Rübenthaler J, Marschner C, von Hake M, Fabritius MP, Froelich MF, Huber T, Nörenberg D, Rückel J, Weniger M, Martens C, Sabel L, Clevert DA, Schwarze V. Structured Reporting Using CEUS LI-RADS for the Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)-Impact and Advantages on Report Integrity, Quality and Interdisciplinary Communication. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030534. [PMID: 33572502 PMCID: PMC7866827 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030534] [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: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an increasingly accepted imaging modality for visualizing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is recommended as a secondary imaging option by most leading hepatology societies. In recent years, the use of structured reporting (SR) has been recommended by several societies to standardize report content and improve report quality of various diagnostic modalities when compared to conventional free-text reports (FTR). Our single-center study aimed to evaluate the use of SR using a CEUS LI-RADS software template in CEUS examinations of 50 HCC patients. SR significantly increased report integrity, satisfaction of the referring physicians, linguistic quality and overall report quality compared to FTR. Therefore, the use of SR in CEUS examinations of HCC patients may represent a valuable tool to facilitate clinical decision-making and improve interdisciplinary communication in the future. Abstract Background: Our retrospective single-center study aims to evaluate the impact of structured reporting (SR) using a CEUS LI-RADS template on report quality compared to conventional free-text reporting (FTR) in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: We included 50 patients who underwent CEUS for HCC staging. FTR created after these examinations were compared to SR retrospectively generated by using template-based online software with clickable decision trees. The reports were evaluated regarding report completeness, information extraction, linguistic quality and overall report quality by two readers specialized in internal medicine and visceral surgery. Results: SR significantly increased report completeness with at least one key feature missing in 31% of FTR vs. 2% of SR (p < 0.001). Information extraction was considered easy in 98% of SR vs. 86% of FTR (p = 0.004). The trust of referring physicians in the report was significantly increased by SR with a mean of 5.68 for SR vs. 4.96 for FTR (p < 0.001). SR received significantly higher ratings regarding linguistic quality (5.79 for SR vs. 4.83 for FTR (p < 0.001)) and overall report quality (5.75 for SR vs. 5.01 for FTR (p < 0.001)). Conclusions: Using SR instead of conventional FTR increases the overall quality of reports in CEUS examinations of HCC patients and may represent a valuable tool to facilitate clinical decision-making and improve interdisciplinary communication in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Geyer
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-894-4007-3620
| | - Johannes Rübenthaler
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Constantin Marschner
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Malte von Hake
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Matthias P. Fabritius
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Matthias F. Froelich
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (M.F.F.); (T.H.); (D.N.)
| | - Thomas Huber
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (M.F.F.); (T.H.); (D.N.)
| | - Dominik Nörenberg
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Mannheim, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (M.F.F.); (T.H.); (D.N.)
| | - Johannes Rückel
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Maximilian Weniger
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany;
| | - Corinna Martens
- Department of Medicine II, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany;
| | - Laura Sabel
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Dirk-André Clevert
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
| | - Vincent Schwarze
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany; (J.R.); (C.M.); (M.v.H.); (M.P.F.); (J.R.); (L.S.); (D.-A.C.); (V.S.)
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Li J, Chen M, Wang ZJ, Li SG, Jiang M, Shi L, Cao CL, Sang T, Cui XW, Dietrich CF. Interobserver agreement for contrast-enhanced ultrasound of liver imaging reporting and data system: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Clin Cases 2020; 8:5589-5602. [PMID: 33344549 PMCID: PMC7716336 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i22.5589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common primary liver malignancy. From the results of previous studies, Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) on contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has shown satisfactory diagnostic value. However, a unified conclusion on the interobserver stability of this innovative ultrasound imaging has not been determined. The present meta-analysis examined the interobserver agreement of CEUS LI-RADS to provide some reference for subsequent related research.
AIM To evaluate the interobserver agreement of LI-RADS on CEUS and analyze the sources of heterogeneity between studies.
METHODS Relevant papers on the subject of interobserver agreement on CEUS LI-RADS published before March 1, 2020 in China and other countries were analyzed. The studies were filtered, and the diagnostic criteria were evaluated. The selected references were analyzed using the “meta” and “metafor” packages of R software version 3.6.2.
RESULTS Eight studies were ultimately included in the present analysis. Meta-analysis results revealed that the summary Kappa value of included studies was 0.76 [95% confidence interval, 0.67-0.83], which shows substantial agreement. Higgins I2 statistics also confirmed the substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 91.30%, 95% confidence interval, 85.3%-94.9%, P < 0.01). Meta-regression identified the variables, including the method of patient enrollment, method of consistency testing, and patient race, which explained the substantial study heterogeneity.
CONCLUSION CEUS LI-RADS demonstrated overall substantial interobserver agreement, but heterogeneous results between studies were also obvious. Further clinical investigations should consider a modified recommendation about the experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832008, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832008, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zi-Jing Wang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832008, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Shu-Gang Li
- Department of Child, Adolescent Health and Maternal Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Jiang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
| | - Long Shi
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The Second People's Hospital of Jiangmen, Jingmen 448000, Hubei Province, China
| | - Chun-Li Cao
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832008, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Tian Sang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832008, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xin-Wu Cui
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Sino-German Tongji-Caritas Research Center of Ultrasound in Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei Province, China
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Chang J, Dumitrache A, Böhling N, Abu-Omar J, Meyer C, Strobel D, Luetkens J, Luu AM, Rockstroh J, Strassburg CP, Trebicka J, Gonzalez-Carmona MA, Marinova M, Praktiknjo M. Alteration of contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Sci Rep 2020; 10:20682. [PMID: 33244180 PMCID: PMC7692482 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77801-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) can treat portal hypertensive complications and modifies hepatic hemodynamics. Modification of liver perfusion can alter contrast enhancement dynamics of liver nodules. This study investigated the diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhosis with TIPS. In this prospective monocentric observational study, CEUS was used to characterize focal liver lesions in patients at risk for HCC with and without TIPS. Times of arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE) und washout were quantified. Perfusion-index (PI) and resistance-index (RI) of hepatic artery and portal venous flow parameters were measured via doppler ultrasonography. Diagnostic gold standard was MRI/CT or histology. This study included 49 liver lesions [23 TIPS (11 HCC), 26 no TIPS (15 HCC)]. 26 were diagnosed as HCC by gold standard. Sensitivity and specificity of CEUS to diagnose HCC with and without TIPS were 93.3% and 100% vs. 90.9% and 93.3%, respectively. APHE appeared significantly earlier in patients with TIPS compared to patients without TIPS. TIPS significantly accentuates APHE of HCC in CEUS. CEUS has good diagnostic performance for diagnosis of HCC in patients with TIPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexia Dumitrache
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nina Böhling
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jasmin Abu-Omar
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Carsten Meyer
- Department of RadioIogy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Deike Strobel
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Julian Luetkens
- Department of RadioIogy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Minh Luu
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, St. Josef Hospital, University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Jürgen Rockstroh
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christian P Strassburg
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany.,European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria A Gonzalez-Carmona
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Milka Marinova
- Department of RadioIogy, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Praktiknjo
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
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An Update on Hepatobiliary Ultrasound. CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40134-020-00357-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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