Non-focal liver signal abnormalities on hepatobiliary phase of gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MR imaging: a review and differential diagnosis

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2016 Jul;41(7):1399-410. doi: 10.1007/s00261-016-0685-z.

Abstract

Gadoxetate disodium (Gd-EOB-DTPA) is a linear, non-ionic paramagnetic MR contrast agent with combined extracellular and hepatobiliary properties commonly used for several liver indications. Although gadoxetate disodium is commonly used for detection and characterization of focal lesions, a spectrum of diffuse disease processes can affect the hepatobiliary phase of imaging (i.e., when contrast accumulates within the hepatocytes). Non-focal signal abnormalities during the hepatobiliary phase can be seen with multiple disease processes such as deposition disorders, infiltrating tumors, vascular diseases, and post-treatment changes. The purpose of this paper is to review the different processes which result in non-focal signal alteration during the hepatobiliary phase and to describe imaging patterns that may order a differential diagnosis and facilitate patient management.

Keywords: Gadoxetate disodium; Liver diseases; Magnetic resonance imaging.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Gadolinium DTPA*
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Liver Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Liver Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • gadolinium ethoxybenzyl DTPA
  • Gadolinium DTPA