The Role of MRI in Characterization of Benign Hepatic Focal Lesions

Abstract

Benign lesions of the liver are common and are frequently discovered during investigations for unrelated intra-abdominal conditions. Most are asymptomatic, but chronic non-specific symptoms are occasionally encountered; acute presentations are rare, but may require immediate attention. In general, liver biochemistry is normal and does not provide definite diagnostic clues, but prompts towards benign disease. MR imaging plays an important role in the workup of the otherwise indeterminate lesion, and often can be definitive in characterization. It is important to consider the characteristic MR imaging features of benign focal hepatic lesions so as to avoid biopsy, surgery, and extensive workups. Advances in MR imaging technology and in some cases, a better understanding of the lesion itself, have allowed for improved lesion diagnosis. MRI having many sequences, markedly helps in the detection of small lesions and in reaching the diagnosis easily even without contrast injection or the need for biopsy as in cysts and hemangiomas.