title: [Contribution and current limitations of computed tomography in the diagnosis of cavernous hemangioma of the liver].
abstract: Based on findings for 30 patients, the authors assess the value of CT scans for the diagnosis of cavernous hemangiomas of the liver. Four images were retained, and were graded 0 (absence) or 1 (presence): hypodensity before injection of the contrast material, arteriolar halo after injection, progressive centripetal filling and late hyperdensity. A score of 3 or 4 after the CT scan allows diagnosis. Solitary lesions of at least 3 cm are correctly evaluated. When associated with other smaller lesions, or when smaller than 3 cm, CT scans are less helpful and arteriography is necessary. In all. CT scanning has four limiting parameters: lesion diameter, the number of images requiring exploration, the difficulty in obtaining exactly the same section in various sequences allowing effective scan analysis (thoraco-abdominal position of the liver) and problems specific to individual patients (poor circulation, iodine allergy or intolerance). These limiting factors explain the "wait-and-see" strategy suggested when confronted with solitary hyperechoic nodules smaller than 3 cm.
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006392:Hemangioma, Cavernous / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
vernacular_title: Apport et limites actuelles de la scanographie dans le diagnostic d'hémangiome caverneux du foie.