ACR Codes: 761.321
The most common primary neoplasm of the liver is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the United States, the most common cause is alcoholic cirrhosis while worldwide, the most common cause is chronic active hepatitis.
Radiographically, the tumor follows three general growth patterns. These are: diffuse infiltrateive, solitary and multinodular. Hemorrhage and necrosis are common findings while calcification may be seen in up to 10% of cases. Characteristic features include invasion of the portal and/or hepatic veins. Metastatic deposits may be seen in the lung, adrenal glands, lymph nodes or bones.
Clinically, 90% of patients will present with elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein. Treatment is surgical, though chemoemboliztion may be performed in individuals with non-resectable disease.
Reference(s): Brant WE, Helms CA. Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology. 2nd Ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins. 1999.
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Disease Topic 3969 
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