Ethiodized oil emulsion 13 in computed tomography of hepatoma

Six patients with biopsy-proven hepatoma were prospectively evaluated both by conventional computed tomography (CT) and by scans using ethiodized oil emulsion 13 (EOE 13) as a contrast agent. EOE 13 infusion resulted in marked improvement in the demonstration of the neoplasm in all cases and allowed more accurate definition of tumor extent than was possible with standard scanning techniques. In two cases EOE 13 enhancement was essential for complete radiographic depiction of tumor location, size, and extent. EOE 13 also proved to be of considerable value in assessment of therapeutic response in three patients, permitting more objective determination of tumor growth or regression. EOE 13--enhanced CT scanning provides a valuable means of staging patients presenting with hepatoma and is a reliable, accurate means of radiographic follow-up.