Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) Classification for Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

ABSTRACT H CC is a global health problem, with the burden of disease expected to increase in the coming years. Imaging plays a pivotal role in the detection, diagnosis, staging, and management of HCC. LI-RADS has been developed to standardize the interpretation and reporting of liver observations in patients who are at risk for developing HCC. The five categories established by this system follow the diagnostic thought process and allow imaging observations to be categorized according to the risk of HCC. LI-RADS provides a comprehensive list of imaging features that favor HCC or benignity, along with appropriate terminology. The system is still evolving and is expected to promote a series of improvements that will ultimately positively affect the care of at risk patients. Areas likely to be covered by LI- RADS in the future include findings at US and hepatocyte-specific contrast-enhanced MR imaging; recommendations for follow-up or biopsy of LR-4 and LR-3 observations; and assessment of response to treatment with local ablative therapies (including radiofrequency ablation, chemoembolization, and radioembolization) or systemic chemotherapy with antiangiogenic agents.