Genotype-phenotype correlations in hepatocellular adenoma: an update of MRI findings

Diagn Interv Radiol. 2014 May-Jun;20(3):193-9. doi: 10.5152/dir.2013.13315.

Abstract

Hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is a generally benign liver tumor with the potential for malignancy and bleeding. HCAs are categorized into four subtypes on the basis of genetic and pathological features: hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α-mutated HCA, β-catenin-mutated HCA, inflammatory HCA, and unclassified HCA. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role in the diagnosis, subtype characterization, and detection of HCA complications; it is also used to differentiate HCA from focal nodular hyperplasia. In this review, we present an overview of the genetic abnormalities, oncogenesis, and typical and atypical MRI findings of specific subtypes of HCA using contrast-enhanced MRI with or without hepatobiliary contrast agents (gadobenate dimeglumine and gadoxetate disodium). We also discuss their different management implications after diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma, Liver Cell / complications
  • Adenoma, Liver Cell / diagnosis*
  • Adenoma, Liver Cell / genetics
  • Adenoma, Liver Cell / pathology
  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Focal Nodular Hyperplasia / diagnosis
  • Gadolinium
  • Gadolinium DTPA
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Liver / cytology
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver Neoplasms / complications
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Liver Neoplasms / genetics
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phenotype
  • Young Adult
  • beta Catenin / analysis

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • beta Catenin
  • gadolinium ethoxybenzyl DTPA
  • Gadolinium
  • Gadolinium DTPA