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Hepatic cavernous hemangiomas: simple diagnostic sign with dynamic bolus CT
1Department of Radiology, Good Samaritan Hospital, Portland, OR 97210.
Radiology
|February 1, 1992
Summary
A simple sign during computed tomography (CT) scans can help diagnose hepatic hemangiomas. Visualizing globular enhancement may confirm cavernous hemangiomas, potentially avoiding additional imaging costs.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Hepatology
Background:
- Hepatic hemangiomas are often incidentally found using computed tomography (CT).
- Current CT diagnostic criteria may require a second, separate imaging study.
- A simpler diagnostic method for cavernous hemangiomas is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a simple sign for diagnosing cavernous hemangiomas during incremental dynamic bolus CT.
- To determine the reliability of globular enhancement patterns in CT imaging.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of patients undergoing incremental dynamic bolus CT.
- Observation for foci of globular enhancement within liver lesions.
- Confirmatory evaluation for all identified lesions.
Main Results:
- 34 lesions in 21 patients showed foci of globular enhancement.
- 94% (32 of 34) of these lesions were confirmed as hemangiomas.
- The sign demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for cavernous hemangiomas.
Conclusions:
- Foci of globular enhancement on dynamic bolus CT are a strong indicator of cavernous hemangioma.
- This sign can potentially eliminate the need for further, costly imaging.
- Simplifies the diagnostic pathway for hepatic hemangiomas.