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Infantile hepatic hemangioma: Doppler US
H J Paltiel1, H B Patriquin, M S Keller
1Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229-2899.
Radiology
|March 11, 1992
Summary
Duplex Doppler ultrasound (US) shows variable flow patterns in infantile hepatic hemangiomas, which can mimic malignant tumors. This imaging technique is valuable for monitoring tumor changes during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Imaging
- Vascular Anomalies
Background:
- Infantile hepatic hemangiomas (IHH) are common benign liver tumors in infants.
- Accurate diagnosis and monitoring are crucial for appropriate management.
- Duplex Doppler ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive imaging modality used to evaluate vascular structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the diagnostic and follow-up utility of duplex Doppler US characteristics in infantile hepatic hemangiomas.
- To analyze tumoral flow patterns and their changes over time.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of duplex Doppler US findings in 13 infants with IHH.
- Clinical correlation and histologic confirmation in a subset of patients.
- Analysis of arterial and venous flow signals and frequency shifts.
Main Results:
- Variable tumoral flow patterns were observed, including high-frequency shifts and low-frequency signals.
- These Doppler US findings can overlap with those of malignant liver tumors.
- Follow-up studies in 12 infants demonstrated a decrease in tumor blood flow over time.
Conclusions:
- Duplex Doppler US characteristics of IHH are diverse and can be non-specific.
- Doppler US is most valuable for monitoring treatment response and disease progression.
- It aids in assessing changes in tumor vascularity after embolization or conservative management.