Multiple liver pseudotumors due to hepatic steatosis and fatty sparing: A non-invasive imaging approach

Eur J Radiol Open. 2019 Jan 12:6:56-59. doi: 10.1016/j.ejro.2019.01.002. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Hepatic steatosis is a frequent benign liver condition that can be idiopathic or secondary. The degree of fatty liver infiltration can be focal, diffuse or patchy. In this study, we present two patients with hepatic steatosis and multiple nodular liver lesions, due to fatty infiltration and fatty sparing respectively, mimicking a primary tumor or metastases ("pseudotumors"). Since the differential diagnosis of this kind of lesions can be difficult based on imaging alone, the knowledge of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) findings may help radiologists to avoid an incorrect diagnosis of liver tumor, and unnecessary biopsies.

Keywords: Contrast enhanced ultrasound; Fatty sparing; Hepatic steatosis; In and out-of-phase; Liver pseudotumor; Magnetic resonance.

Publication types

  • Case Reports