Liver Masses / Hepatoma

What are the common liver masses?

• Malignant liver tumors
  • metastatic tumors
  • hepatocellular carcinoma
  • cholangiocarcinoma
• Benign focal liver lesions
  • cysts
  • cavernous hemangiomas
  • focal nodular hyperplasia
  • hepatic adenomas
  • abscesses.

Pathology of hepatoma (hepatocellular carcinoma):

• Hepatoma can present as a single or multiple masses or diffuse involvement.
• It has a tendency to invade portal and hepatic veins.

What are the anticipated imaging findings of hepatoma?

• Single, multiple masses or diffuse involvement
  • Hemorrhage
  • Fat
  • Necrosis
  • Calcification
  • Hypodense capsule rim
  • Enhancement seen with contrast.
• Can invade portal and hepatic veins

CT and MRI are the imaging procedures used in the evaluation of Hepatoma.

CT scan in another patient with Hepatoma Arrowheads point to the enhancing mass. Note the lobulated margins of the liver, lower density than spleen and ascites indicating underlying cirrhosis.

Liver metastasis is a common condition presenting as liver mass.
	Liver metastasis Multiple hypodense lesions seen in the liver with no significant contrast enhancement. Primary: Colon carcinoma