A 32-year-old member asked:
How can an radiologist tell the difference between a liver hemangioma and possible liver cancer?
3 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
Surgical Oncology 20 years experience
MRI or CT scan: This is usually a pretty straight-forward distinction based on a ct or MRI scan. The important point is that the scan has to be ordered as a "hemangioma protocol" with IV contrast. Hemangiomas usually take up and release IV contrast in a predictable fashion in comparison with liver cancer. Rarely, if there is still a question, the mass can be biopsied without a serious risk for bleeding.
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Dr. Mark Hoepfneranswered
Surgery 41 years experience
Varies: Usually the radiologist will use a combination of tests to tell. Sometimes an ultrasound with doppler, sometimes a ct scan, and sometimes an additional MRI scan may be indicated. There are specific findings on a radiology test that would help the radiologist tell the difference. Hemagiomas of the liver can be fairly common.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Garry Choyanswered
Radiology 18 years experience
MRI or CT: Usually a radiologist can distinguish the two types of lesions via an MRI scan (and also a ct scan).
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 47-year-old member asked:
How does a radiologist determine liver cancer to hemangioma?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Uma Swamyanswered
Radiation Oncology 18 years experience
MRI: Mri with contrast of the liver can be useful in helping to distinguish between the two.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 21, 2017
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