[Diagnosis of round liver lesions]

Abstract

Ultrasound and computed tomography are dominant in the diagnosis of liver lesions. Angiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and scintigraphic procedures complete the spectrum. Ultrasound and computed tomography are able to detect focal liver lesions and to distinguish between hypoechoic, anechoic and hyperechoic lesions. We differentiate in addition between liver lesions found accidentally or in patients suffering from a known tumor. For a definite diagnosis of a haemangioma a computerized tomography with rapid contrast bolus or MRI should be performed. If there is suspicion of an adenoma or a focal nodal hyperplasia a hepatobiliary sequence scintigraphy should be performed. In the following the essential procedures for the differential diagnosis of liver lesions based on there sonomorphological appearance is presented.