Tj. Vogl et al., Imaging techniques for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma: technique, results, indications, RADIOLOGE, 41(10), 2001, pp. 895-905
Purpose. Demonstration of imaging techniques for the diagnosis and interven
tional follow up of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Material and methods. Examination strategies are presented using color code
d duplex-sonography (US), computed tomography and magnetic resonance techni
ques like MRI, MR-angiography and MR-cholangiopancreaticography (MRCP).
Results. Color coded sonography reveals a sensitivity of 85-92% and a speci
ficity of 78-90% for the detection of HCC. The diagnostic results of CT cou
ld 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 agent
s versus hepatobiliary and extracellular drugs.
Conclusion. Contrast enhanced MRI proves as the superior imaging technique
for the early diagnosis, differential diagnosis and follow up of hepatocell
ular carcinoma.