[Heterogeneous steatosis. Echographic aspects]

Heterogeneous fatty degeneration of the liver was detected in 8 patients by ultrasound recordings, and confirmed by biopsy and the subsequent course. The etiology was alcoholism in most cases. Elevated transaminases and gamma GT were associated with modifications in hepatic ultrasound images. Foci of liver fatty degeneration were hyperechogenic, usually with clearly defined outlines, and were segmental, polygonal or rounded, and lacking mass effects. This condition requires differentiation from primary or secondary liver tumors, and can be confirmed by a CT scan and biopsy of a hyperechogenic zone found on ultrasonographic images strongly suggestive of the lesions.