Computed tomography of cavernous hemangioma of the liver

Twelve cases of hepatic hemangioma were examined by computed tomography (CT). Dense accumulations of rapidly injected contrast material in or near the periphery of the lesions were demonstrated in early postcontrast scans. They invaded the area of low density and diminished in attenuation value with time. This marked decrease of the low density area noticed in the precontrast scan was also seen in the later postcontrast scan. These findings were recognized in all 10 cases of hemangioma examined with contrast enhancement, while no cases of hepatoma showed such a peripheral high density zone. Most hepatic hemangiomas could be correctly diagnosed by CT alone.