[Diagnostic imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma. Examination technique, results and indications].
OBJECTIVE
Demonstration of imaging techniques for the diagnosis and interventional follow up of hepatocellular carcinoma.


METHODS
Examination strategies are presented using color coded duplex-sonography (US), computed tomography and magnetic resonance techniques like MRI, MR-angiography and MR-cholangiopancreaticography (MRCP).


RESULTS
Color coded sonography reveals a sensitivity of 85-92% and a specificity of 78-90% for the detection of HCC. The diagnostic results of CT could be further improved via the newly developed techniques of multislice-CT. The highest diagnostic accuracy could be achieved via the use of contrast enhanced MRI with advantageous results for superparamagnetic contrast agents versus hepatobiliary and extracellular drugs.


CONCLUSIONS
Contrast enhanced MRI proves as the superior imaging technique for the early diagnosis, differential diagnosis and follow up of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Vogl
T J
TJ
Institut für Diagnostische und Interventionelle Radiologie, J.-W.-Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60590 Frankfurt. T.Vogl@em.uni-frankfurt.de
Hammerstingl
R
R
Schwarz
W
W
D006528:Carcinoma, Hepatocellular / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D003952:Diagnostic Imaging; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity