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Characterization of liver hemangiomas with pulse inversion harmonic imaging
Emilio Quaia1, Michele Bertolotto, Ludovico Dalla Palma
1Department of Radiology, Cattinara Hospital, University of Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy. equaia@yahoo.com
European Radiology
|March 1, 2002
Summary
Pulse inversion harmonic imaging (PIHI) effectively characterizes most liver hemangiomas. This advanced ultrasound technique shows typical patterns in both typical and atypical hemangiomas, though CT may be needed for some smaller atypical cases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Hepatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Liver hemangiomas are common benign liver tumors.
- Accurate characterization is crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Conventional ultrasound has limitations in differentiating hemangiomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of pulse inversion harmonic imaging (PIHI) in characterizing liver hemangiomas.
- To compare PIHI findings with conventional ultrasound, CT, and follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 39 liver hemangioma patients.
- PIHI performed with Levovist contrast agent.
- Confirmation by dynamic helical CT or 6-month ultrasound follow-up.
Main Results:
- PIHI identified characteristic patterns in most typical and atypical liver hemangiomas.
- Typical hemangiomas showed isoechoic patterns on late phase PIHI (80%).
- Atypical hemangiomas demonstrated rim-like enhancement and centripetal fill-in on PIHI.
Conclusions:
- PIHI is a valuable tool for characterizing liver hemangiomas.
- PIHI demonstrates typical enhancement patterns in the majority of cases.
- Helical CT may be necessary for final characterization in select atypical cases.