Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
Application of the En Bloc Concept Combined with Anatomic Resection in Laparoscopic Hepatectomy
Published on: March 10, 2023
Recurrent hepatoblastoma with localization by PET-CT
Maria S Figarola1, Samuel A McQuiston, Felicia Wilson
1Department of Radiology, University of South Alabama, 2451 Fillingim St., Mobile, AL 36617-2293, USA.
Insights
Recurrent hepatoblastoma in children can be challenging to locate. Positron emission tomography CT effectively identified recurrence sites when conventional imaging failed, aiding treatment decisions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric oncology
- Medical imaging
- Hepatobiliary diseases
Background:
- Hepatoblastoma is the most common pediatric liver cancer, predominantly affecting children under five.
- Accurate localization of primary and recurrent hepatoblastoma is crucial for effective treatment planning.
- Rising alpha-fetoprotein levels can indicate hepatoblastoma recurrence.
Observation:
- A case of recurrent hepatoblastoma presented with elevated alpha-fetoprotein.
- Standard computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were unsuccessful in localizing the recurrent tumor.
- Positron emission tomography CT (PET-CT) was employed for disease localization.
Findings:
- PET-CT successfully identified the specific sites of recurrent hepatoblastoma.
- This highlights the utility of PET-CT in challenging pediatric liver cancer cases.
- Early detection and precise localization are key to managing recurrent hepatoblastoma.
Implications:
- Positron emission tomography CT should be considered for localizing recurrent hepatoblastoma when conventional imaging is insufficient.
- Improved imaging techniques can lead to more timely and targeted therapeutic interventions.
- This case underscores the importance of advanced imaging in pediatric oncology for optimizing patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary liver tumor in children, accounting for 79% of pediatric liver malignancies in children younger than 15 years, with most cases reported before the age of 5 years. Localization of primary and recurrent disease is necessary for appropriate clinical decision-making and treatment. We present a case of recurrent hepatoblastoma heralded by rising alpha-fetoprotein levels. After unsuccessful localization by conventional CT and MRI, positron emission tomography CT imaging localized the sites of recurrence.
