[Liver and focal liver contrast: radiologic-pathologic correlation]

Knowledge of the histological features of different components of a liver lesion greatly assists radiologists because it provides understanding of the correspondingimaging features. The imaging characteristics of lesions depend on variations of the extracellular architecture, mainly surrounding stromal tissue. Until histological imaging techniques become available, cellular analysis relies on optical microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Recent advances in imaging techniques now provide additional information on lesions due to improved spatial, temporal and contrast resolution. Correct interpretation of these imaging features should improve diagnosis.