Pediatric multifocal liver lesions evaluated by MRI.
Majed Almotairi1, Kamaldine Oudjhane1, Govind B Chavhan1
1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Indian Journal of Radiology & Imaging
|August 20, 2015
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively characterizes multifocal liver lesions in children. This study details MRI features to aid in diagnosing common pediatric liver conditions like focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) and hemangiomas.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Hepatology
Background:
- Multifocal liver lesions in children present diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate characterization is crucial for appropriate management and treatment.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers detailed anatomical and functional information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present experience with MRI evaluation of pediatric multifocal liver lesions.
- To describe the characteristic MRI features of these lesions.
- To assess MRI's utility in differential diagnosis for pediatric liver conditions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of MRI exams for multifocal liver lesions (2007-2012).
- Analysis of lesion number, size, signal characteristics, and background liver parenchyma.
- Diagnosis based on pathology, clinical, imaging features, and follow-up.
Main Results:
- 48 children (3 months-18 years) evaluated.
- Common diagnoses included focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), hemangiomas, metastases, and regenerative nodules.
- Characteristic MRI features were observed for FNH, hemangiomas, and regenerative nodules; metastases showed variable patterns.
Conclusions:
- Many common pediatric multifocal liver lesions exhibit distinct MRI features.
- MRI aids in forming differential diagnoses for these lesions.
- MRI findings can guide further pediatric liver lesion investigation and management.
