Liver imaging reporting and data system: An expert consensus statement

The increasing incidence and high morbidity and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have inspired the creation of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS). LI-RADS aims to reduce variability in exam interpretation, improve communication, facilitate clinical therapeutic decisions, reduce omission of pertinent information, and facilitate the monitoring of outcomes. LI-RADS is a dynamic process, which is updated frequently. In this article, we describe the LI-RADS 2014 version (v2014), which marks the second update since the initial version in 2011

Towards High-quality prostate MRI: Frequency and reasons for repeated and extra sequences in prostate MRI examinations

https://openworks.mdanderson.org/sumexp21/1152/thumbnail.jp

Phase I Trial of Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography-Guided Liver-Directed Radiotherapy for Patients With Low Functional Liver Volume

BACKGROUND: Traditional constraints specify that 700 cc of liver should be spared a hepatotoxic dose when delivering liver-directed radiotherapy to reduce the risk of inducing liver failure. We investigated the role of single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to identify and preferentially avoid functional liver during liver-directed radiation treatment planning in patients with preserved liver function but limited functional liver volume after receiving prior hepatotoxic chemotherapy or surgical resection. METHODS: This phase I trial with a 3 + 3 design evaluated the safety of liver-directed radiotherapy using escalating functional liver radiation dose constraints in patients with liver metastases. Dose-limiting toxicities were assessed 6-8 weeks and 6 months after completing radiotherapy. RESULTS: All 12 patients had colorectal liver metastases and received prior hepatotoxic chemotherapy; 8 patients underwent prior liver resection. Median computed tomography anatomical nontumor liver volume was 1584 cc (range = 764-2699 cc). Median SPECT functional liver volume was 1117 cc (range = 570-1928 cc). Median nontarget computed tomography and SPECT liver volumes below the volumetric dose constraint were 997 cc (range = 544-1576 cc) and 684 cc (range = 429-1244 cc), respectively. The prescription dose was 67.5-75 Gy in 15 fractions or 75-100 Gy in 25 fractions. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed during follow-up. One-year in-field control was 57%. One-year overall survival was 73%. CONCLUSION: Liver-directed radiotherapy can be safely delivered to high doses when incorporating functional SPECT into the radiation treatment planning process, which may enable sparing of lower volumes of liver than traditionally accepted in patients with preserved liver function. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT02626312

Magnetic resonance imaging: Review of imaging techniques and overview of liver imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the liver is slowly transitioning from a problem solving imaging modality to a first line imaging modality for many diseases of the liver. The well established advantages of MRI over other cross sectional imaging modalities may be the basis for this transition. Technological advancements in MRI that focus on producing high quality images and fast imaging, increasing diagnostic accuracy and developing newer function-specific contrast agents are essential in ensuring that MRI succeeds as a first line imaging modality. Newer imaging techniques, such as parallel imaging, are widely utilized to shorten scanning time. Diffusion weighted echo planar imaging, an adaptation from neuroimaging, is fast becoming a routine part of the MRI liver protocol to improve lesion detection and characterization of focal liver lesions. Contrast enhanced dynamic T1 weighted imaging is crucial in complete evaluation of diseases and the merit of this dynamic imaging relies heavily on the appropriate timing of the contrast injection. Newer techniques that include fluoro-triggered contrast enhanced MRI, an adaptation from 3D MRA imaging, are utilized to achieve good bolus timing that will allow for optimum scanning. For accurate interpretation of liver diseases, good understanding of the newer imaging techniques and familiarity with typical imaging features of liver diseases are essential. In this review, MR sequences for a time efficient liver MRI protocol utilizing newer imaging techniques are discussed and an overview of imaging features of selected common focal and diffuse liver diseases are presented

Controversies in imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma: multidetector CT (MDCT)

Primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant tumor worldwide and represents the most common primary hepatic neoplasm. Staging criteria are important for appreciation of timely work up of these neoplasms in contradiction with surgical colleagues. This article demonstrates the appearance of HCC on multiphasic, multidetector CT (MDCT) and relates these findings to current staging criteria. The variable appearance on different planes of contrast is critical to appreciate in staging this neoplasm. The hypervascular nature of the primary tumor makes MDCT and three-phase imaging a critical feature in the detection and characterization of this tumor. This is especially critical in the patients who are candidates for surgical resection. Additionally, MDCT has allowed arterial phase imaging to define the vascular supply of the tumor. An accurate representation of the size and number of lesions is critical in not only the initial staging but also the follow-up of hepatocellular carcinoma. The post-treatment features including the appearance post-surgically and after radiofrequency ablation can be well appreciated on MDCT

Hepatic Endometriosis Mimicking Metastatic Disease: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Endometriosis of the liver is an uncommon disease characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue in the liver. There are no pathognomonic radiological features for hepatic endometriosis and preoperative diagnosis is difficult by imaging. Most cases are diagnosed after surgery. We report atypical imaging features of hepatic endometriosis in a 61 year-old female that mimic metastatic disease to the liver. She was referred to our institution with a presumed diagnosis of metastatic neuroendocrine tumors to the liver. After imaging guided core biopsy and histologic and immunohistochemical analysis, the diagnosis of hepatic endometrial stromal proliferation was made. We review the literature and provide imaging features that may help in reaching the correct diagnosis of hepatic endometriosis