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Whole-body PET/MRI of Pediatric Patients: The Details That Matter
Published on: December 19, 2017
Magnetic resonance imaging of primary pediatric liver tumors
Brian S Pugmire1, Alexander J Towbin2
1Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., MLC-5031, Cincinnati, OH, 45255, USA.
Abstract:
Although primary hepatic neoplasms are less common than other intra-abdominal tumors in children, these neoplasms are a significant source of morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. MRI is increasingly relied upon in the diagnostic evaluation of these lesions, both before and after treatment, and familiarity with the MRI findings associated with these neoplasms is a must for pediatric radiologists. Advances in MRI technology, particularly the advent of hepatocyte-specific gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents, have allowed for accurate characterization of several types of hepatic neoplasms on the basis of imaging appearance. In this review, we provide an overview of the approach to imaging hepatic neoplasms in children using MRI, including a sample imaging protocol. We also discuss the relevant clinical features and MRI findings of the most clinically relevant entities, including their appearance on post-contrast imaging using hepatocyte-specific gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents.
Insights
Pediatric hepatic neoplasms are significant causes of illness and death. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), especially with hepatocyte-specific contrast agents, is crucial for diagnosing and characterizing these tumors in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Oncology
Background:
- Primary hepatic neoplasms, while less common than other pediatric intra-abdominal tumors, represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in children.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a cornerstone in the diagnostic evaluation and treatment monitoring of pediatric hepatic lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the MRI approach for imaging pediatric hepatic neoplasms.
- To discuss the clinical features and MRI findings of key pediatric hepatic neoplasms.
- To highlight the role of hepatocyte-specific contrast agents in characterizing these lesions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current MRI techniques and protocols for pediatric liver tumors.
- Discussion of imaging appearance of various hepatic neoplasms.
- Emphasis on post-contrast imaging using hepatocyte-specific gadolinium-based contrast agents.
Main Results:
- Advances in MRI technology, including hepatocyte-specific contrast agents, enable accurate characterization of pediatric hepatic neoplasms.
- Familiarity with specific MRI findings is essential for accurate diagnosis in pediatric patients.
Conclusions:
- MRI is indispensable for the comprehensive evaluation of pediatric hepatic neoplasms.
- Understanding MRI characteristics, particularly with advanced contrast agents, improves diagnostic accuracy and patient management.
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