Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of malignant mesenchymal liver tumors.

PURPOSE

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can differentiate malignant from benign hepatic tumors, but has not been studied in malignant mesenchymal liver tumors.

METHODS

We describe the findings of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in a cohort of five patients with histological-proven malignant hepatic mesenchymal tumors.

RESULTS

The presence of imaging features such as peripheral (nodular) enhancement, chaotic central vascularization, and absence of contrast enhancement in the late phase allowed differentiation from hemangiomas.

CONCLUSIONS

If these findings are demonstrated in large hepatic tumors, then the diagnosis of hemangioma is unlikely and further workup is necessary.