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MR appearance of radiation hepatitis
D F Yankelevitz1, P H Knapp, C I Henschke
1Department of Radiology, New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical College, NY 10021.
Clinical Imaging
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can track radiation hepatitis changes in the liver. This noninvasive technique reveals increased signal intensity in irradiated liver areas, returning to normal within 60 days post-therapy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Hepatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Radiation hepatitis histopathology is known, but its appearance on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is sparsely documented.
- Therapeutic irradiation for Hodgkin's lymphoma necessitates understanding its effects on liver tissue.
Observation:
- Serial MR scans were performed on patients undergoing abdominal irradiation for Hodgkin's lymphoma.
- The study aimed to characterize the temporal evolution of liver signal intensity changes post-radiation.
Findings:
- An increased signal intensity in the irradiated liver segments was observed on T2-weighted MR images.
- These changes were detectable as early as 7 days after 2000 cGy and typically normalized within 60 days after completing 3600 cGy radiation therapy.
Implications:
- MR imaging offers a valuable noninvasive method for monitoring the progression and resolution of radiation-induced liver injury.
- This technique aids in assessing treatment response and managing potential complications of abdominal radiotherapy.
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