Differential diagnosis of focal liver lesions: role of spin-echo and contrast-enhanced dynamic MR imaging.

Abstract

To evaluate the role of spin-echo (SE) and contrast material-enhanced dynamic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the differential diagnosis of focal liver lesions. Conventional T1- and T2-weighted SE and fast low-angle shot dynamic MR imaging were performed in 300 focal liver lesions on a 1.5-T MR imager. Findings at both SE and dynamic imaging were analyzed by means of univariate and multivariate analysis. Although considerable overlap existed, signal intensity on T2-weighted images, tumor margin, and internal architecture were significant factors for SE imaging. For dynamic imaging, the hemodynamics and pattern of enhancement were significant factors. A logistic regression analysis revealed 86% of lesions were correctly categorized with these parameters. A specific diagnosis of liver lesions can be obtained in most cases by combining parameters obtained from SE and dynamic MR images.