An overview of imaging techniques for liver metastases management

Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015;9(12):1561-76. doi: 10.1586/17474124.2015.1092873. Epub 2015 Sep 28.

Abstract

Evaluation of liver metastases is one of the most common indications for liver imaging. Imaging plays a key role in the of assessment liver metastases. A variety of imaging techniques, including ultrasonography, computed tomography, MRI and PET combined with CT scan are available for diagnosis, planning treatment, and follow-up treatment response. In this paper, the authors present the role of imaging for the assessment of liver metastases and the contribution of each of the different imaging techniques for their evaluation and management. Following recent developments in the field of oncology, the authors also present the importance of imaging for the assessment of liver metastases response to therapy. Finally, future perspectives on imaging of liver metastases are presented.

Keywords: computed-tomography; imaging; liver; magnetic resonance; metastases; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Humans
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Liver Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Liver Neoplasms / therapy
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Multimodal Imaging
  • Positron-Emission Tomography*
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Radiopharmaceuticals