Updates in Abbreviated MRI-Based HCC Surveillance.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance in high-risk populations benefits from advanced imaging.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers superior sensitivity over ultrasound for early HCC detection.
• Complete contrast-enhanced MRI is limited by long scan times and high costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review abbreviated magnetic resonance imaging (aMRI) protocols for HCC surveillance.
• To evaluate the diagnostic performance, clinical applicability, and limitations of different aMRI approaches.
• To explore strategies for integrating aMRI into routine clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on aMRI for HCC surveillance.
• Categorization of aMRI protocols: hepatobiliary-phase, dynamic contrast-enhanced, and noncontrast.
• Summary of diagnostic performance, clinical utility, and cost-effectiveness.

Main Results:

• Abbreviated MRI provides improved sensitivity over ultrasound with reduced scan time and cost compared to complete MRI.
• Three main categories of aMRI exist, each with specific advantages and limitations.
• Recent studies provide high-level evidence supporting the clinical utility of aMRI for HCC surveillance.

Conclusions:

• Abbreviated MRI is a practical and effective alternative for HCC surveillance in high-risk individuals.
• Careful patient selection and cost-effectiveness analysis are crucial for optimal implementation.
• Risk-adapted surveillance strategies integrating aMRI may enhance efficiency in routine practice.