[CT analysis of hepatic metastases].
OBJECTIVE
To describe the manifestations of the hepatic metastases. To investigate the value of CT examination in diagnosis of hepatic metastases.


METHODS
CT radiographs of 90 patients with hepatic metastases were studied retrospectively. The tumor number, size, density, shape, spreading in the hepatic parenchyma were analyzed. The size of liver and spleen was measured.


RESULTS
Three or more metastatic nodules spreading in the hepatic parenchyma were found in 65 (72%) cases. Two nodules were shown in 6 (7%) cases. 19(21%) cases had only single nodule. 29 of the metastatic deposits located in the hepatic parenchyma near the liver edge. The size of metastatic nodules varied from 0.5 cm to 14 cm. In 87 cases, the density of metastatic nodules was lower than the surround liver parenchyma. In 3 cases of diffuse fatty liver, the metastatic deposits appeared as higher CT density nodules. Central necrosis of the tumor foci was seen in 44 cases. Striking hepatomegaly was noted in 31 cases with widespread nodules. In 26 cases which had one and two nodules, the shape of the liver was normal. In 45 cases, the primary tumour was found by CT at the same time.


CONCLUSIONS
The CT findings of hepatic metastases differ. Multiple nodules disseminating in liver parenchyma is the general sign. Tiny nodules without other clinical signs can be detected by CT.
Lu
X
X
Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao Medical College.
Bi
W
W
Li
Z
Z
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000556:secondary*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013274:Stomach Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed