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Lymphadenopathy in chronic active hepatitis: CT observations
R M Gore1, R L Vogelzang, A A Nemcek
1Department of Radiology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL 60611.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Abdominal lymphadenopathy is common in chronic active hepatitis patients. CT scan findings of reduced lymph node size may indicate successful immunotherapy response.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Radiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Chronic active hepatitis (CAH) can lead to deteriorating liver function.
- Abdominal lymphadenopathy is a potential but under-recognized sign in CAH.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of CT scans in assessing chronic active hepatitis.
- To determine the frequency and significance of abdominal lymphadenopathy in CAH patients.
Main Methods:
- CT scans were performed on 17 patients with biopsy-proven CAH.
- Lymphadenopathy was assessed in the porta hepatis and retroperitoneum.
- Serial CT scans and biopsies were used to monitor patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Abdominal lymphadenopathy was detected in 65% of patients.
- In 35% of cases, lymphadenopathy was the sole CT indicator of significant liver disease.
- Immunotherapy led to reduced lymph node size in parallel with clinical and histological improvement.
Conclusions:
- Abdominal adenopathy is a frequent CT finding in chronic active hepatitis.
- CT-detected lymphadenopathy may serve as a useful marker for monitoring immunotherapy effectiveness in CAH.